The key point of Cognac: distillation | Know-How
a glass of Cognac
The key to the whole process is a wise combination of nature and man.
Distillation is an important part of the process.
Copyright BNIC / Aurelien Terrade
Distillation is the process of separation. The key to distillation is the difference in the volatility of these compounds. The volatile substances that remain in Cognac are the main factors that make up the aromas.
The process of distillation
The distillation process is carried out in two different stills, using the traditional "Charente" copper stills ⸺a boiler with a unique shape set above an open fire, above the boiler is a distillation tower, shaped like a turban, an olive or an onion, and a bent tube called a "swan neck" connects the distillation column to the condenser. In the condenser, this tube becomes a serpentine tube and enters the cold water.
Copyright BNIC / Furax
How does distillation guarantee the flavor of Cognac?
When the grapes are harvested, they are pressed immediately. After 5 to 8 days of fermentation, the alcohol concentration of the liquid reaches about 9%. It is the perfect condition to start distillation.
Copyright BNIC / Furax
Cognac is generally distilled in two steps:
First step is to obtain the original spirit. The unfiltered liquid is boiled in a still, and the alcoholic vapours emitted converge in the upper distillation column. It passes through the "swan neck" into the serpentine tube. After touching the condenser, it is cooled and the crude alcohol of 27-32% ABV comes out.
The second step is the second distillation. The original spirit is put back into the distiller for a second distillation to obtain the second distillate, which is "fine spirit".
Copyright BNIC / Aurelien TERRADE
In the 17th century AD, the Dutch made the first Charentais stills. The crude spirit becomes a higher concentration, smaller volume, and easier to retain liquid. More importantly, it became easy to transport. It traveled from France to the whole world so that more people can taste Cognac.
Copyright BNIC / Benoit LINERO
There are 3,000 alambics in the Cognac region. In 2022, 212.5 million of Cognac bottles were produced in Cognac and exported to nearly 150 countries. From Cognac to China, the United States or Europe, the spirit is recognized and appreciated by people around the world.
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[TRANSMISSION] NURSERYMAN AND HIS CLIENT
The nurseryman supports his client by following up on root development and assuring protection against diseases. Plot after plot, the nursery and winemaker relationship requires real dedication.
