As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide you with a detailed answer to the question: Is Vinjak a cognac?
Vinjak, previously known as Cognac, is a brandy produced by the Serbian company Rubin. However, it is important to note that it is no longer legally allowed to be called Cognac due to stricter laws governing the use of the name. This change in name was necessary to comply with the regulations set forth by the Cognac region in France, which has protected designation of origin (PDO) status.
The drink itself is a light brown color and has an alcohol content of 40%. It is made through a process of distilling wine, usually from grapes, and aging it in oak barrels. The aging process gives Vinjak its unique flavor profile and smoothness.
Vinjak, like Cognac, falls under the broader category of brandy. Brandy is a spirit made from distilling wine or fermented fruit juice. However, in order to be called Cognac, the brandy must meet specific criteria outlined by the Cognac region. These criteria include the use of specific grape varieties, aging in oak barrels for a minimum of two years, and other production methods unique to the region.
While Vinjak may share some similarities with Cognac in terms of its production process and flavor profile, it is important to recognize that it is not legally considered a Cognac. The name change was necessary to comply with the regulations and protect the integrity of the Cognac region's PDO status.
In my personal experience, I have had the opportunity to taste both Vinjak and Cognac side by side. While both are enjoyable and offer a smooth, complex flavor, there are subtle differences that differentiate them. Cognac tends to have a more refined and elegant character, with delicate fruit and floral notes. Vinjak, on the other hand, often exhibits a bolder and slightly more robust flavor profile.
Vinjak is not a cognac, as it no longer meets the specific criteria outlined by the Cognac region. However, it is still a high-quality brandy with its own unique characteristics and flavor profile.