White cognac is a rare variety

For lovers of cognac, the white type is undoubtedly a rare one to find. White cognac is a type of French brandy made by distilling white wine in oaken barrels. It is typically made in much the same way as other types of cognac, but is usually much lighter in colour because it is not aged as long. Freshly distilled white cognac can be very strong, containing as much as 70 per cent alcohol, though most distilleries dilute the brandy to about 40 per cent alcohol. Though the distillation of cognac is a vital part of the history of the Cognac region of western France, white cognac is considered a creation of the modern era. The Cognac region boasts of 15,000 vineyards, producing Colombard, Ugni Blanc and Folle Blanche. These varieties of grape are generally very hardy, and they typically produce an acidic white wine that contains low levels of alcohol. Cognac is believed to take its colour from the barrels themselves, such that, the longer the liquor is aged in the barrels, the darker it can become. While some varieties of fine cognac may be aged for a minimum of 50 years, and usually much longer, white cognac is often aged for a minimum of only 15 years. White cognac can be difficult to find. Hennessy may be the most popular distiller of this variety, but Hennessy Pure White is often difficult to find outside of France as the company has stopped producing it. The only white cognac available on the market, Godet “Antarctica” is created from the rare Folle Blanche grape. Although Antarctica has been matured in very old oak for seven years, the distillation and filtration process leaves the spirit pure and clear. This dry, medium-bodied cognac has hints of apple custard, poached pear, golden raisin and vanilla.

The writer is a mixologist