Cognac vs. Sherry — What's the Difference?

Cognac, originating from the Cognac region in France, is a luxurious spirit distilled from white grapes. It undergoes a meticulous double distillation process in copper pot stills and is aged in French oak barrels, contributing to its rich flavor profile that includes notes of fruit, spice, and oak. Sherry, on the other hand, is a fortified wine from the Jerez region in southern Spain, known for its unique production process that includes fortification with grape spirit after fermentation.

While both Cognac and Sherry are celebrated for their depth of flavor and heritage, their production methods and base ingredients significantly differ. Cognac's exclusivity comes from its geographic designation and distillation process, making it a distilled spirit. Sherry's diversity is rooted in its aging process and the fortification stage, classifying it as a wine, albeit fortified.

Cognac's flavor is influenced heavily by its aging process in oak barrels, which imparts vanilla, caramel, and spice notes. Sherry's flavor profile, however, varies widely depending on the type; Fino Sherry offers almond and green apple notes, while Pedro Ximénez is known for its raisin and fig characteristics.

In terms of consumption, Cognac is often enjoyed as a digestif, savored slowly to appreciate its complex flavors, while Sherry can be versatile, serving as an aperitif in its dryer forms or as a dessert wine in its sweeter styles. This versatility makes Sherry a popular choice for pairing with a wide range of foods, from tapas and seafood to rich desserts.