When drinking something as refined as cognac, it’s important to take it step by step. Unlike your average drink, cognac serving requires attention to detail. It’s the little things that matter if you want to have a truly memorable experience. These tips apply for serving cognac to guests and if you simply wish to enjoy a glass after dinner.

The right bottle

There are a number of different types of cognac from which you can choose. The quality of the bottle will affect the price. VS, or Very Special cognacs need to be stored for at least 2 years. VSOP, or Very Special Old Pale bottles are to be stored for at least 4 years. For a bottle to be labelled as Extra Old, XO, it needs to be stored for over 6 years and can be stored for up to 20 years. The age of the bottle will affect the flavour and aroma of the contents. This is important to remember when it comes to cognac serving because you want to know what you are presenting to your guests.

The right glass

Proper cognac serving requires the right glass. A tulip-shaped glass is ideal. If you don’t have one, you can use a low, spherical glass instead. You need a glass that will allow the aromas to flow.

How to pour

Cognac serving also requires proper pouring. Once the glass is ready, you need to pour approximately 25ml into the glass. You can hold the glass and you don’t need to hold the stem like you would wine. In fact, it’s best to hold the glass so that the cognac warms up. Usually, this takes about 10 minutes.

Checking the colour

Now it’s time to check the colour of the cognac. This will indicate the age of the bottle. Lighter yellow bottles are younger while golden or reddish ones are older. The darker the cognac, the older it is.

Sniff and swirl

Much like wine, cognac serving is not about that first sip. Take your time, lift the glass, give it a swirl and a sniff. You will notice various aromas when you smell the drink before you taste it. You should sniff the glass a couple of times before you taste.

Give it a taste

Now this is the best part of cognac serving – getting that first taste! Take a small sip rather than a large gulp. You want to allow the cognac to swirl in your mouth and roll over your tongue before you swallow. This will allow you to appreciate all of the finer flavours. Allow it to pass slowly over the palate and savour each sip as you do!

Between sips you will notice even more flavours coming to the surface. Don’t rush to finish the glass! Cognac serving is all about the experience and it’s not just about having a drink.