For the mass consumer, the question of the difference between whiskey and cognac is not fundamental, but a sophisticated connoisseur of expensive and high-quality alcoholic beverages is ready to discuss this topic for hours.
At first glance, cognac and whiskey have a lot in common - they are similar in color, both are strong. This is where the similarities end and the differences begin.
Production technology and raw materials
Cognac is made from grape raw materials, and whiskey is made from grain crops: wheat, barley, rye, rice and corn. Both drinks are aged in oak barrels. The technology for the production of cognac is more complex and demanding on ingredients than that of whiskey, therefore, with the same aging, the first alcoholic drink will cost more than the second. This does not apply to branded manufacturers - here prices are set by marketers. Cognac belongs to brandy - alcoholic distillation of fruit juice, and whiskey - to cereal distillate. Simply put, for moonshine, but of very good quality. This is achieved through aging in oak barrels and good grain raw materials.
Production region and quality control
Cognac can be called a drink produced only in France. The state strictly monitors its quality. All other similar drinks are brandy.
Whiskey is the national drink of the Irish and Scots, but is produced all over the world. The product does not have uniform quality control standards, which increases the chances of buying a very low-quality alcohol with all the ensuing consequences.
Fortress
French legislation defines only the lower threshold for the concentration of alcohol in cognac - not less than 40%. The strength of the whiskey is not regulated in any way and is the hallmark of the manufacturer. Scotch tape in 40-50 turns is most often found on sale, but you can also find varieties with a strength of 70%.
Use
Whiskey, when consumed, is often blended with soda, sugary sodas, and ice. So its taste is softened and emphasized. Cognac, as an independent drink, is self-sufficient and refined, and therefore does not need third-party additives. When diluted, on the contrary, taste and aromatic qualities are lost, turning high-quality alcohol into a kind of sour compote. If cognac is equally chosen by both men and women, then whiskey, due to its harshness, is considered preferably a man's drink.
Harm to health
In whiskey, the concentration of esters and oils is twice as high as in cognac, which, with equal doses and the same quality, leads to different consequences in the morning. From cognac there are no severe attacks of headache, and it is quickly excreted from the body. While whiskey has a very negative effect on health and takes precedence in this rivalry.
