Cognac is a variety of brandy named after the commune of Cognac, France. It is produced in the surrounding wine-growing region in the departments of Charente and Charente-Maritime.

Cognac must be at least 40 percent alcohol. The designations you see on Cognac labels—VS (Very Special), VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale), and XO (Extra Old)—are a guarantee of how long a Cognac has been aged.