Cognac is one of the greatest brandies in the world. It begins it journey to one of the world's greatest spirits as wine.

Cognac is a brandy that is made from the distillation of wine. Just as there are many types of vodka, there are many types of brandy. Cognac's reputation comes from the quality of its wine and the distillation method.

Around Cognac, France is a countryside with fertile, chalky soil. The river Charente flows through this area. The grapes produce a thin, acidic wine, with low alcohol. While the wine is not prized, it is the base for the finest brandies. Since the 1th century, these brandies have been prized around Europe.

There are many fine Cognac houses. One is Hennessey. In 1765 an Irish trader moved to Cognac and founded a trading company, Jas. Hennessey & Co. The company is still family owned and run. It was one of the first to recognize the importance in advertising.

Rémy Martin refers to its product as "Fine Champagne Cognac." Included is an excellent guide for learning to taste Cognac. The steps are similar to tasting any wine.

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Cognac : The Seductive Saga of the World's Most Coveted Spirit, by Kyle Jarrard
Jarrard, the International Herald Tribune editor, takes the reader on a journey of discovery. He begins his story with the Romans, who first brought grapes to this costal area. The struggle to create something not only drinkable, but special is related with facts. You will have a complete picture of what it took to create the great Cognac houses of France.