Cognac Tasting Toronto And Ontario – In Person or Virtual

Cognac Aroma

Cognac’s essential difference from most other spirits is that its aromatic components derive directly and exclusively from the grape.

During a typical cognac tasting session, you will be invited to get in touch with the diverse range of aromatic notes. Some of the most common aroma profiles that you will come across in cognac are:

Fruity: The white wine grapes are a giveaway for this one. But it’s not just grapes. Cognac can have a bouquet of aromas that include dried apricots, plums, and citrus.

Floral: Delicate floral scents can be detected in cognacs, such as jasmine, violet, and iris. These aromatic nuances lend an elegant and aromatic dimension to the spirit, enhancing its complexity.

Oak and Spice: Cognac acquires distinct characteristics from the oak barrels used for ageing. You may perceive notes of vanilla, cinnamon, cloves, and toasted oak, which contribute to the warm and spicy aromas found in well-aged cognacs.

Note that the more a cognac is aged, the more pronounced are its aromas.

Cognac Knowledge

During the cognac tasting experience, you will gain more than just a sip of the drink. You will learn about different elements fused together to produce a fantastic drink.

Production Methods: Cognac production is controlled by the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC). Cognac is made from specific grape varieties, primarily Ugni Blanc (About 98% of all production).

Harvested by hand, these grapes are then pressed and fermented into a low-alcohol wine known as ‘wine eau-de-vie.’ This is then distilled twice and later aged in oak barrels from Limousin or Troncais. Note that cognac must be aged for at least two years. Some of the finest cognacs in the world have been aged much longer – as long as 50 years!

History: Cognac has a long history, dating back to the 16th century when Dutch traders introduced the process of distillation to the town of Cognac.

The result was that people realised that distilling wine produced a spirit with unique qualities and exceptional flavours. In the 18th century, some of the most famous cognac houses came into being, including Remy Martin and Martell.

Interrelationships: Cognac is a type of brandy, and with that shares a common connection with brandy. But cognac’s flavour differs from other types of brandy.

Use In Cocktails: Cognac is best enjoyed on its own or mixed with other spirits such as Champagne. However, cognac also forms the base for many classic cocktails such as Sidecar, Manhattan, or a Sazerac.

As you savour a glass of cognac, you become part of this remarkable journey, connecting with the traditions, craftsmanship, and passion that have made cognac an enduring symbol of refinement and indulgence throughout history.

Self Guided

Looking to explore the delights of cognac on your own terms? We’ve got you covered. Introducing our self-guided cognac tasting events.

With our specially crafted self-guided cognac tasting kit, you’ll have everything you need for a memorable tasting experience. Each kit includes:

1. Curated Selection of Cognac Samples: Delight in a carefully chosen assortment of 5 to 6 distinct cognac samples. These selections have been thoughtfully curated to showcase a variety of styles, flavours, and characteristics.
   
2. Comprehensive Tasting Guide: Our informative guide will walk you through the art of cognac tasting. Learn the proper techniques, explore key knowledge about cognac production, and gain a deeper understanding of each featured cognac. The guide also includes detailed tasting notes for each sample, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique nuances and aromas.
3. Optional Note Card, Tasting Glass, and Food Pairing: Enhance your tasting experience by adding optional extras to your kit. We offer a tasting journal to write down your personal impressions, a specialised tasting glass to elevate the sensory experience, and suggested food pairings to complement the flavours of the cognac.

Immerse yourself in the world of cognac at your own pace, guided by our expertly curated kit. Whether you’re a novice enthusiast or a seasoned connoisseur, our self-guided cognac tasting experience is designed to delight and expand your knowledge.

Click the link below to discover more about our self-guided cognac tasting kits and embark on an unforgettable journey.

Cognac Tasting Kits

Virtual Cognac Tasting or Hybrid (In-Person & Online Cognac Tasting)

Looking to connect with your remote team or distant friends? Immerse yourself in the world of cognac with our virtual cognac tasting experience!

Our online cognac experience brings together participants from different locations. We offer a shared tasting adventure that’s cost-effective and accessible for those in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) and all across Ontario.

For a blend of in-person and virtual experiences, our hybrid cognac tasting event caters to teams in both office and remote settings, ensuring flexibility and inclusivity.

Indulge in a comprehensive virtual cognac tasting, mirroring our in-person offerings. While rental glasses are not available, participants can purchase their own to enhance their online cognac course.

To ensure a seamless experience, virtual cognac tasting kits can be conveniently picked up or shipped directly to your guests, providing all the elements for an unforgettable journey into the world of cognac.