Cognac and Brandy: Differences you should know 

When it comes to elegant and sophisticated drinks, brandy and cognac often occupy a prominent place. However, although many people use them as synonyms, there are clear differences between them that are worth knowing. If you have ever wondered what the difference is between brandy and cognac, you are in the right place. 

What is the difference between brandy and cognac? 

Although they are often used as synonyms, the difference between brandy and cognac starts from their origin. Brandy is produced in different countries around the world, and its production can involve different fermented fruits in addition to grapes, which gives it a great versatility in flavors. But not all brandies are the same. A special case is the Brandy de Jerez, aged exclusively in the Marco de Jerez, in Sherry casks, the well-known Sherry Casks, a grape distillate like cognac and with Protected Geographical Indication, whose production is governed by strict quality standards,  

On the other hand, cognac must be made exclusively in a specific region of southwestern France called Cognac and only from specific white grapes, mainly Ugni Blanc, Colombard and Folle Blanche. 

Origin and authenticity 

The cognac is a drink with controlled designation of origin (AOC), which means that it can only be manufactured under certain geographical and technical conditions. However, within the world of brandy there are varieties like the Brandy de Jerez that have strict regulation. The Brandy de Jerez must be produced, aged and bottled exclusively in the Marco de Jerez, in Andalusia, and its production process is supervised by the Regulatory Council.

This brandy is made using the traditional system of criaderas and soleras, and ages in American oak barrels previously seasoned with Jerez wines. This process gives it a smoothness, and natural sweetness and a unique complexity, making it a product with its own identity, deeply linked to the unique tradition and a unique area, just like Fundador, which offers you a rich and renewed experience in each bottle.

Aging and maturation 

The brandy distillation process can significantly vary from cognac. While cognac requires a double distillation in Charentais copper stills, brandy can be distilled in different types of still, offering greater flexibility in the outcome. Both brandy and cognac age in oak barrels, but the type of oak and conditions can vary. In the case of Brandy de Jerez, the aging is carried out in the traditional system of criaderas and soleras in American oak boots previously steeped with Jerez wines. 

Versatility and flavor profile 

Although both brandy and cognac have an alcoholic content between 36% and 45%, their flavor profiles are different. Brandy is characterized by its versatility and can offer a wide range of flavors ranging from warm and fruity to drier or sweeter, depending on the fruits used and the distillation process. This makes it ideal for combining in innovative cocktails and enjoying alone, with ice, or in more sophisticated mixes.

Cognac usually offers a more uniform experience: aromas of fruits, white flowers, mild spices and a silky finish. Brandy, on the other hand, can range from warm and fruity flavors to drier or sweeter notes, depending on the type of fruit and the process.

Classifications  

As for the labels indicating aging, cognac uses very specific terms: VS (Very Special), VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) and XO (Extra Old). These categories are regulated and guarantee the minimum time that has been spent in the barrel. 

In the case of Brandy de Jerez, the categories are called Solera, Solera Reserva and Solera Gran Reserva, also regulated and guaranteeing the minimum time that has been spent in the barrel, and help to ensure a quality standard in each bottle.

Brandy vs Cognac: frequent doubts 

Choosing between brandy and cognac can be a challenge, especially when considering their differences and similarities. Here, we answer some of the most common questions that good drinking enthusiasts may ask. 

Can both products be used in cocktails? 

Yes. Both can be excellent bases for cocktails. Cognac brings elegance and complexity, but Brandy stands out for its versatility, adapting to classic or innovative combinations, ideal for those looking for flavor and personality in their mixed drinks. Fundador invites you to experiment and enjoy its range in your modern cocktails favorites. 

Is brandy made with different fruits? 

Generic brandy is. That’s one of the big differences between brandy and Jerez brandy, not only versus cognac. While the latter (Jerez Brandy and Cognac) are only produced with white grapes, brandy can originate from a wide variety of fruits, reflected in the diversity of flavors. 

Do they have the same distillation process? 

Not exactly. Cognac must be distilled in a specific period of the year and always in Charentais copper stills and in two phases. Brandy, however, can be distilled at any time of the year and in different types of still, which allows more flexibility, 

Jerez Brandy, and especially Fundador, is distilled in the famous Alembic stills, which according to many experts, produce a higher quality distillate due to the slower and controlled distillation, which can result in a finer distillate but also more variability in the result. 

Do both use oak barrels to age? 

Yes, both brandy and cognac age in oak. The difference lies in the requirements. In the case of cognac, it must be French oak, while Jerez Brandy exclusively uses American oak boots that previously contained Jerez wines, which gives it very particular nuances. 

Does cognac only come from France? 

Yes. And in the same way, Jerez Brandy can only be made in the Marco de Jerez, composed of the triangle formed between Jerez, El Puerto de Sta Maria and Sanlucar de Barrameda, under strict regulations that guarantee its authenticity and quality. In fact, the Geographical Indication (GI) of Jerez is often a quality distinction used to know that we are talking about a Jerez Brandy.  

Conclusion: Fundador Jerez brandy or cognac? 

After learning about all these differences, it’s clear that, although they share common roots, each one has its own personality. Cognac is synonymous with French elegance and tradition, with a balanced and refined flavor. Whereas Brandy de Jerez, as is the case with Fundador, is a more versatile product, aged in the coveted Sherry Casks, with its own identity seal, guaranteed by the Denomination of Origin of Sherry and meticulously crafted under its dynamic and traditional system, which ensures offering a diverse range of experiences, with a uniform standard that guarantees depth and complexity. 

Fundador is synonymous with quality, authenticity, and evolution. You can explore our most diverse range of flavors where authenticity mixes with innovation. If you’re looking for a spirit with soul, that respects tradition and embraces innovation, Fundador is the perfect choice.