Cognac - In Review

As a self-respecting French restaurant, we have our share of cognacs. Outside from what you hear about cognac through pop culture references, how much do you really know about this French liquor?

Well, we've compiled our own little Top 5 list of things that you need to (or at least should) know about cognac.

1. Cognac is actually a variety of brandy.
2. Cognac gets its name from the town in France. (And, it's actually produced in the wine-growing region around the town).  
3. The French are very serious about their cognac. For a brandy to be labeled as cognac, rigorous standards apply, such as the type of grapes, the aging process and length, and more!
4. Depending on the age and blend, cognacs have several official grades which relate to the quality of the cognac. V.S. (Very Special), V.S.O.P (Very Superior Old Pale), and XO (Extra Old) are the main quality grades. 
5. Some of the best cognacs will cost you a pretty penny. Many top rated cognacs sell for upwards of $5,000 per bottle, and the exclusive Remy Martin Louis XIII Black Pearl Limited Edition (released in 2008) dropped on the market with a price tag of $34,000 for 750 ml.

Now that you know a little more about cognac, stop in and try it for yourself. While we don't have the Remy Martin Louis XIII Black Pearl Limited Edition, we do have a nice variety depending on your tastes (and wallet).

Courvoisier - V.S. and Napoleon

Hennessey - V.S., V.S.O.P, X.O., and Paradis

Martell - V.S., V.S.O.P, and X.O

Marte - Cordon Bleu

Remy Martin - V.S., V.S.O.P, X.O

Delamain - Pale & Dry

Á votre santé!