Cognac vs. French Whisky: Duel of Spirits Made in France

Cognac vs. French Whisky: Duel of Spirits Made in France

France boasts two of the world's greatest spirits:cognac , with its centuries-old tradition, and French whisky , which is enjoying a boom in artisanal production. But what are the real differences between these two emblems of French expertise? Here's our comprehensive comparison.

Cognac and whisky: two identities, two worlds

Criteria Cognac French Whiskey
Raw material Grape (white wine) Cereals (barley, wheat, rye)
Type of distillation Double distillation with iron Double or triple distillation
Regulation Controlled Designation of Origin (AOC) Protected Geographical Indication (PGI)
Region Charente and Charente-Maritime All over France
Aging Oak barrels (often new) Various barrels (cognac, sauternes, wine, bourbon)
Dominant tastes Dried fruits, rancio, woody, floral Cereals, spices, peaty, fruits


Cognac: the most exported French tradition

  • Produced exclusively in the Cognac region

  • More than 90% of production is exported

  • Long aging (VS, VSOP, XO)

  • Big names: Martell, Hennessy, Courvoisier, but also artisan houses

French whisky: the new artisanal wave

  • More than 120 distilleries in operation by 2025

  • Various regions: Brittany, Lorraine, Tarn, Alsace...

  • Aging in local barrels (wine, pineau, sauternes, etc.)

  • Expression of the terroir, great diversity of aromatic profiles

Can we compare cognac and whisky?

Yes, but with a nuance:

  • Cognac is more regulated by the AOC, whisky offers more creative freedom

  • French whisky surprises with its audacity, cognac reassures with its nobility

  • Both require time, wood, and talent

How to taste them?

Cognac :

  • Rather after the meal

  • Room temperature (20°C)

  • Tulip glass

French whisky :

  • As an aperitif or for tasting on its own

  • Glencairn glass or tumbler

  • Possibility of adding a little pure water

And at De Michellot?

We pay tribute to the two great families of French spirits:

  • Our Maquisards Cognac vintages come from the Jean-Luc Pasquet house

  • Avintage of French whisky is being developed: it will combine terroir and innovation

Learn more:

From Michellot , ambassador of French spirits with character.