Cognac

Cognac is the most famous brandy, from the Charente and Charente-Maritime regions of France. The best cognacs are from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne zones. Main grapes are Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche and Colombard. The thin, tart wines are distilled twice in pot stills and aged in Limousin or Tronçais oak casks.

Cognacs are blends of brandies from different vintages and regions. Age designations like VS/VSOP/XO are unofficial but generally mean:

• VS/VSOP - 2+ or 4-5 years minimum
• VSO P- 4+ or 10-15 years minimum

Armagnac is France's oldest brandy from Gascony. Grapes and distillation are similar to Cognac but use unique column stills for a more rustic spirit that requires more aging. Monlezun oak casks were traditional but now other French oaks are also used. More single vintages and vineyards are available compared to Cognac. Age designations are similar but often have more older vintages.

Traveling pot stills were once used but now most Armagnac is distilled in larger cooperative facilities.

French brandy refers to less prestigious brandies distilled in column stills, aged minimally, and often blended with additives to smooth flavor. Age designations may be used but lack legal status.