Cognac and Chocolate: A Match Made in Heaven

By: Jennifer Matthews

It seems we’re just too busy to sit around and chat after dinner anymore. In an effort to boost lagging sales of digestifs, cognac producers have launched a cognac and chocolate pairing program designed to highlight the many unusual and pleasing combinations of the spirit and the sweet.

Their efforts have been, not surprisingly, well-received. In fact, cognac, the pinnacle of brandies, is an ideal partner for the rich flavors in chocolate.

So happy together

Much like the way true champagne comes only from the Champagne region of France, cognac is produced only in France’s Cognac region. Under strict French law, cognac production methods and growing areas are clearly defined, with the amount of time spent aging in barrels establishing the cognac's designation. It’s the oak barrel aging that lends cognac its beautiful amber color. (For more on cognac and on Rémy Martin, the only firm that produces fine champagne cognac, see our complete feature on Cognac)

The aromatic, full-bodied nature of cognac makes it excellent for both pre- and post-meal sipping, but many purists feel that cognac’s tasting notes of vanilla, cinnamon and spices bring out the best in chocolate, and vice versa.

Tips for maximum enjoyment

	A few recipes for inspiration Hot-buttered cognac with chocolate-dipped spoons Cognac, clove and cinnamon hot chocolate Bittersweet chocolate-cognac truffles

before dinner
With an appetizer course, try pairing cognac with stronger cheeses or foie gras. Cognac can also be part of a very pleasing cocktail—a French 75 is a simple, classic choice.

during a meal
Generally, cognac’s strong flavors don’t pair well with main course meats, but cognac complements the exotic spices found in many Asian dishes nicely.

after dinner
There is considerable debate among cognac enthusiasts about how to best enjoy it as an after-dinner drink. While the traditional straight-up in a snifter is a safe bet, many Far Eastern countries typically drink it on the rocks. And some gasp at the thought of flaming cognac, while for others it’s an indulgence not to be missed.

The good news is that fine chocolate is more widely available now than ever before, so why not experiment a little? At your next dinner party, offer cognac in a variety of temperatures and glasses, alongside several different types of chocolate. Your guests will be more than happy to discover new, pleasing—and many even transcendent—combinations.