Brandy

History
First began to appear in the 12th century and became generally popular in the 14th century. Initially wine was distilled as a preservation method and as a way to make the wine easier for merchants to transport and to lessen the tax by volume.

History
The intent was to add the water removed by distillation back to the brandy shortly before consumption. It was discovered that after having been stored in wooden casks, the resulting product had improved over the original distilled spirit.

What is Brandy?
Spirits distilled from fermented juice of grapes (wines). It is usually aged in wood. In Spain it is popularly known for Solera, System of blending and also they used it to fortify wines to make higher alcohol content such as sherry and other fortified wines.

Types of Brandy
Cognac Armagnac Marc Fruit Brandy

Cognac
Best quality of Brandy Comes from the Cognac region in France, and is double distilled using pot stills. Popular brands include Hine, Martell, Rmy Martin, Hennessy, Ragnaud-Sabourin, Delamain and Courvoisier. The process through second distillation in which only the heart of the brandy is taken, and the top and bottom is taken out to obtain its finest. By French law all must be age at least 18 months before it is bottled.

Classifications of Cognac
3 Stars = 3 years VS = 3 years VSOP= 4 years Extra/Vielle Reserved/Napoleon Cordon Bleu/XO = 5 years

Abbreviations
V =Very S =Superior O =Old P =Pale E = Especial F = Fine X = Extra

Armagnac
Armagnac comes from the Gascony that is located couth of Bordeaux. Popular brands are Darroze, Baron de Sigognac, Larressingle, Delord, Laubade, Glas and Janneau.

Types of Armagnac
Marc Grappa Pomace Arguadiente

Fruit Brandy
It is sometimes called Eaux de Vie Made from variety of fruits. Schnapps and Aquavit

Process
Mashing Fermentation Distillation Aging Bottling

Uses and Service

Brandy straight is a traditional after dinner drink, presented according to custom in a large rounded brandy glass or snifter with ice water on the side. It can also serve with water or soda and other mixer as a highball, in coffee and many mixed drinks. White fruit brandies should be served chilled, in a chilled pony glass or liqueur glass to retain its aroma of the fresh fruits.