French brandy, a pinnacle of elegance and sophistication in the spirits world, offers an array of exquisite varieties, each with its own distinct character and charm. At Spirits of France, we are proud to present a curated selection of the finest French brandies, including the celebrated Armagnac, Cognac, and Calvados.
Armagnac, hailing from the Gascony region in southwestern France, is crafted from a blend of grape varieties such as Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Folle Blanche. This brandy undergoes a unique single distillation process and is aged in oak barrels for at least a year, resulting in a rich flavour profile with notes of prunes, vanilla, and spices.
Cognac, originating from the Charente and Charente-Maritime regions, is exclusively made from Ugni Blanc grapes. It undergoes double distillation in copper pot stills and is aged in oak barrels for a minimum of two years, with the finest varieties aging for decades. This meticulous process imbues Cognac with a complex flavour spectrum of oak, vanilla, and fruit nuances.
Calvados, a distinct type of French brandy from Normandy, is crafted from apples and occasionally pears. Following fermentation and distillation, this spirit is aged in oak barrels for at least two years, often longer, to develop its signature apple flavour complemented by caramel and spice notes.
Key distinctions among these brandies lie in the fruit base used, distillation methods, and aging processes. Armagnac employs a blend of grapes and single distillation, while Cognac is double-distilled using Ugni Blanc grapes. Calvados stand out with their apple or pear base and can be distilled once or twice. The aging process further differentiates these brandies, with each type maturing in specific oak barrels to enhance their unique flavour profiles.
Explore and buy these dry French brandies online at Spirits of France. Whether you are a brandy aficionado or new to the world of French spirits, our selection of Armagnac, Cognac, and Calvados offers a perfect introduction to the rich, diverse flavours of French brandy. Experience the luxury and tradition of these esteemed spirits with every sip.