Savor your cognac in a variety of ways.
By Cari Jorgensen
Cognac is a spirit that is meant to be savored. One takes one’s time with a glass of cognac, in an effort to prolong the moment, to stop the clock for that instant and turn that fleeting second into a privileged hour. This is why cognac is most often consumed straight. But that doesn’t mean you must always drink it the same way. According to cognac.fr, 2 cl (or 0.67 oz) the spirit can be enjoyed straight in four different ways.
1. The Cognac Tradition (Neat):
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Pour a glass of an old cognac. The better the cognac the more admiration you will have for its color and aromas, and above all its flavor. When drinking cognac neat it is not a race to empty your glass. Take your time.
2.The Iced Cognac:
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Consumed prior to a meal, the iced cognac should consist of VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) cognac over just a few ice cubes.
3. The Cognac & Coffee Combination:
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This pairing requires a superior coffee and an XO (extra old; aged at least 6 years) cognac. The cognac should be served in a tulip or balloon glass.
4. The Dessert & Cognac Pairing:
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Bring out the flavors of not only an XO or VSOP cognac, but also the flavors of the dessert with this combination. Recommended desserts include chocolate, crème brûlée or perhaps an almond or apricot pie. When choosing the perfect pairing for you cognac, consider this Aroma Wheel from ExperienceCognac.com:
So for National Cognac Day on June 4, indulge in a cigar and a glass of cognac – neat, on the rocks, with coffee or with dessert. How will you be enjoying your cognac?
