Martell Blue Swift is not a bourbon. While it is finished in bourbon barrels, it is important to note that it is initially made of cognac VSOP. The finishing process in bourbon barrels adds unique flavors and characteristics to the cognac, but it does not change its fundamental identity as a cognac.
To understand why Martell Blue Swift is not considered a bourbon, it is necessary to delve into the differences between cognac and bourbon. Cognac is a type of brandy that is produced in the Cognac region of France, using specific grape varieties and production methods. On the other hand, bourbon is a type of whiskey that is primarily produced in the United States, with specific regulations and requirements.
One key difference between cognac and bourbon is the base ingredient. Cognac is made from grapes, while bourbon is made from a mash bill that primarily consists of corn. This difference in base ingredient gives each spirit its distinct flavors and characteristics. The use of grapes in cognac production contributes to its fruity and floral notes, while the corn in bourbon provides its characteristic sweetness and grain flavors.
Another important distinction is the aging process. Cognac, including Martell Blue Swift, is aged in French oak barrels, which imparts its own unique flavors to the spirit. Bourbon, on the other hand, must be aged in new charred oak barrels, which give it the classic caramel and vanilla flavors often associated with the spirit.
The finishing process in bourbon barrels that Martell Blue Swift undergoes is a technique employed to add additional layers of complexity and flavor to the cognac. By spending time in these barrels, the cognac picks up some of the bourbon's characteristics, such as hints of oak, vanilla, and caramel. This finishing process is a way to create a unique and innovative product that combines the best of both worlds, but it does not change the underlying nature of the spirit.
Martell Blue Swift is not a bourbon. It is a cognac VSOP that is finished in bourbon barrels, adding distinct flavors and aromas to the final product. While it may have some similarities to bourbon, such as the use of bourbon barrels in the aging process, it remains fundamentally a cognac.