As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that cognac does not go bad with age. In fact, unlike wine which can continue to improve in flavor and complexity over time, cognac reaches its peak quality and flavor during the aging process in oak barrels. Once the cognac is bottled, it no longer ages and will remain in that state until it is consumed.
The aging process of cognac is a delicate and intricate one. The spirit is aged in oak barrels, which imparts specific flavors and aromas to the liquid. The longer the cognac is aged, the more time it has to develop and absorb these characteristics from the wood. The interaction between the spirit and the oak barrels is what gives cognac its unique and rich flavor profile.
Once the cognac is bottled, it is sealed with a cork to ensure that no air enters the bottle. This is crucial to maintaining the quality and integrity of the spirit. As long as the bottle remains unopened and the cork is intact, the cognac will not go bad. However, it is important to note that if the cork becomes damaged or compromised in any way, air can enter the bottle and potentially spoil the cognac.
To preserve the quality of both the cork and the cognac, it is recommended to store the bottles upright in a dry and dark place. This helps to prevent any moisture from coming into contact with the cork, which could cause it to deteriorate. Additionally, keeping the bottles away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures will help to maintain the optimal conditions for long-term storage.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste well-aged cognacs that were stored for several decades. These cognacs exhibited incredible depth of flavor, with notes of dried fruits, spices, and oak. The complexity and smoothness of the spirit were truly remarkable, showcasing the benefits of long-term aging.
Cognac does not go bad with age as long as it is stored properly and remains unopened. The aging process in oak barrels is crucial to developing the unique flavors and aromas of cognac, and once bottled, the spirit will maintain its quality until it is enjoyed. So, if you have a bottle of cognac that has been stored upright in a dry and dark place, rest assured that it will be just as delightful to drink as the day it was bottled.