2.1 REV Q (brandy) Flashcards
What is the definition of Brandy?
Any spirit that is made from fruit
What is the best know grape brandy?
Cognac
Which region grows Cognac grapes?
South-west France, north of the town of Bordeaux
What is the first step of Brandy production and what happens during the stage?
Processing grapes
The Cognac grapes are pressed to release their juices
What is the second step of Brandy production and what happens during the stage?
Fermentation
This juice is full of sugar and is fermented immediately to make a wine.
What is the third step of Brandy production and what happens during the stage?
(pot still) Distillation
By law, Cognac must be double distilled in a pot still.
A liquid must be distilled at least twice to produce a spirit. Pot still spirits are relatively low strength with a lot of flavour and character.
What is the fourth step of Brandy production and what happens during this stage?
After distillation
By law, states the newly made spirit must be aged in oak barrel for at least 2 years after distillation and give the flavours of vanilla and toast.
The best cognacs are aged for much longer and become very concentrated and develop fruit cake and toffee aromas. Cognacs are usually slightly sweetened before they are diluted and bottled.
What happens when a Brandy undergoes oak ageing?
The spirit picks up flavour and colour from the oak. The flavours become concentrated as water and alcohol evaporate through the sides of the barrels.
What intense and complex aromas are very aged spirits expected to have?
Fruit cake, dried fruit and toffee.
What are the three types of Cognac?
VS, VSOP and XO
What is the meaning and minimum age of VS Cognac?
VS = Very Special
Minimum age: 2 year
What is the meaning and minimum age of VSOP Cognac?
VSOP = Very Superior Old Pale
Minimum age: 4 years
What is the meaning and minimum age of XO Cognac?
XO = Extra Old
Minimum age: Historically six, but will move to ten years
