White cognac: what is it, history + three brands
The original transparent product, which belongs to the category of elite alcohol, looks more like vodka. But in terms of cooking technology and flavor characteristics, it is not at all like it.
The production of white cognac in the factory began relatively recently, although it is said that the drink's recipe was developed several centuries earlier.
History of appearance
The first mention of an unusual product dates back to the XVIII century. It is assumed that it was invented by one of the French cognac specialists who collaborated with a well-known banker in social circles.
The technology of making the drink was kept in the strictest confidence and could soon cause a sensation.
However, the creator of the cognac was suddenly killed, and his records disappeared without a trace.
The crime was never solved, and the recipe for the drink was long considered lost. There were rumors that the inventor was killed by competitors who produced ordinary cognac.
The re-invention of the mystical alcohol is attributed to the Swiss Jean Jatone, who was the owner of the cognac house.
The drink was released at the end of the XIX century and was named after the creator of "Jatone".
According to those who tasted it, the product differed from the French version with a milder and more refined taste.
However, the cognac was not lucky the second time around: production had to be curtailed due to the intrigues of competitors and the "war" they unleashed.
New attempts to recreate the legendary alcohol were made in the XX-XXI centuries. Godet and " became interested in the production of white cognacRemy Martin".
The post-Soviet space has its own version of the original cognac: the Crimean Tavria produces vintage alcohol "Jatone White".
Specifics of white cognac production
Careful selection of grapes of certain light varieties.
In France, only Folle Blanche and Uni Blanc are used for this purpose.
In the process of processing unique raw materials, which includes pressing and fermentation, a base is obtained that contains a small percentage of alcohol and has a high acidity.
After distillation, the product is placed in barrels made of a certain type of oak, which have been used many times before (which is also due to the technology).
In wooden containers, the valuable liquid spends an average of 7 to 15 years, after which the drink is carefully filtered and bottled.
The aging period is never increased, although it can be shorter.
This moment is the most important for obtaining a transparent shade, which is enhanced by filtration.
Characteristics of the drink
Unusual cognac does not always look colorless. In some cases, it has a light whitish or pale yellow tint.
The bouquet is soft, smooth, with a delicate sweetness and fruity-floral tones. In the first notes, there are salty-spicy accents that give way to a woody flavor and end with a bright peppercorn with a long sweetish-fruity aftertaste.
In addition, each manufacturer brings its own flavors to the drink.
White cognac brands
Godet Antarctica Icy White
The French version is the most famous and best-selling among white cognac variants.
Aging is carried out in century-old oak barrels.
The product is characterized by absolute, crystal transparency.
Caramel and floral aroma with a hint of chamomile and juniper resembles aged gin, and the taste surprises with its fullness and richness.
Dominant notes: spicy, honey, vanilla, fruity and floral.
The drink can be drunk at any time, regardless of food intake, although it is more often consumed as a digestif or in cocktails.
Lheraud Cognac Eau-De-Vie
A lesser-known but no less noble product is produced by the Leroy family cognac house, located in the center of the Petit Champagne region.
The name can be translated as "living water", which is fully consistent with the quality and taste of the drink.
Cognac has a pale golden, almost transparent color. The taste is soft, spicy, harmonious, with a light aroma of smoke and bright chocolate notes.
Drink as an aperitif accompanied by caviar snacks.
This variant, unlike the other types presented, does not require strong cooling and can be served at room temperature.
Jatone White
The branded product produced by Tavria is popular with Russian consumers and fans of the brand from neighboring countries.
It is more affordable than elite drinks from France, but also worthy of tasting.
The manufacturer claims that the unique technology borrowed from the Swiss Jean Jaton is used in the manufacture of the product.
The drink has a clear, transparent hue, aroma of menthol, candy and gooseberries, a mild floral and grape flavor, and an intense refreshing effect.
Features of use
A unique drink not only in color and taste, but also in tasting rules.
Drink it chilled: the optimum temperature is 6-12 °C.
Some gourmets even recommend keeping the product in the freezer for several hours, and before tasting it, throw a few ice cubes and mint leaves into the glass.
The tasting time is not adjusted to the meal: you can drink white cognac as a digestif and aperitif, it is also good in cocktails.
Smoked sausages and meat, pates, and pork will be good as appetizers.
Update: 18.12.2018
Category: Brandy and Cognac