The silk road

After such a nosing experience is it necessary to drink ? Well, I am joking. But for those who dislike the idea of « strong spirits », I recommend you to try to smell the Cognacs, even if you do not drink them eventually. Find an understanding friend...
Flavours and textures are less diversified than in the universe of Wines, where you can find extremes regarding acidity for instance, sparkling wines, fortified wines...
Anyhow, the range of flavours and textures is vast. In broad outline, young “eaux de vie” will be more violent, full of alcohol, less complex. With time passing, they will become gradually suppler, round, unctuous, more complex. Tannins, once harsh, become rounder; but a cognac may be round and bitter. In old cognacs, you find the same notion of balance as in great wines: an inner frame giving the structure, and an envelope, light or full of flesh, which brings silkiness and roundness.
The final appreciation of a Cognac will mention its neatness, subtlety, strength, richness, harmony between flavours and aromas, complexity, persistence of impressions…