Cognac

The earliest known spirits were made from wine. In 1411 wine was recorded being distilled into a spirit in the Armagnac region of France, though the great days of Cognac were not to emerge for another 300 years - and when they did, it was as a distinctly luxurious spirit.

Cognac’s rich history of use in cocktails is not surprising, as its rich and fruity character make it ideal for mixing in long and short drinks.

Potent cocktails like the Harvard and the original version of the Sazerac make use of its dryness and intensity; where sour and punchy drinks like the Sidecar pair it with ingredients that bring out its fruitiness.

Cognac is also increasingly popular as a base for long drinks and, with soda, tonic or lemonade it can create surprisingly delicate summer cups and swizzles.