Main Difference – Cognac vs Armagnac
Cognac and Armagnac are both brandies made from white wine grapes. Both of these brandies are produced in France. Cognac is made in Cognac region whereas Armagnac is made in Armagnac region. This is the main difference between Cognac and Armagnac. Some other differences can also be noted between Cognac and Armagnac.
What is Cognac
Cognac is a brandy made from a white wine. Cognac is produced only in the Cognac region of France. The white wine which acts as the base of Cognac is primarily made of Ugni Blanc grapes.
This wine is double-distilled in a copper pot still. It is aged in Limousine or Tronçais oak casks. The wine must be aged for a minimum of two years. Cognac is always blended, and vintages are very rare.
Cognac is popular not only in France but all over the world. It is also stronger than Armagnac. It is distilled to be higher in alcohol (about 70%).
What is Armagnac
Armagnac is also a French brandy made from a white wine. This wine can be made from grape varieties of Folle Blanche, Colombard, and Baco Blanc. Armagnac is produced in Armagnac region of France. This is mostly consumed by locals.
Armagnac is not double distilled; it goes through a single distillation process. It has a fuller, more complex flavor when compared to Cognac. It is also lower in alcohol. It is usually distilled to a lower proof of 57%. Armagnac must be aged for a minimum of one year. It is typically aged in Limousin or local Gascon oak. Armagnac features blends as well as vintages.
Difference Between Cognac and Armagnac
Grape
Cognac mostly uses Ugni Blanc grape.
Armagnac can use Folle Blanche, Colombard, and Baco Blanc.
Distillation
Cognac is double distilled in copper pots.
Armagnac is typically distilled once in a continuous still.
Oak
Cognac is aged in Limousin/Tronçais oak barrels.
Armagnac can be aged in Limousin or local Gascon oak.
Minimum Age
Cognac can be aged for a minimum of two years.
Armagnac can be aged for a minimum of one year.
Alcohol Content
Cognac is often distilled to be higher in alcohol than Armagnac.
Armagnac is often distilled to be lower in alcohol than Cognac.
Popularity
Cognac is popular in many countries.
Armagnac is mainly popular in France.
Vintage
Cognac rarely features vintages.
Armagnac features blends as well as vintages.
Image Courtesy:
“Vintage Armagnac” by Dominic Lockyer (CC BY 2.0) via Flickr
“Cognac: Curves” by Shaylor (CC BY-ND 2.0) via Flickr
