What Alcohol Is Distilled From Grapes?

The primary alcohol distilled from grapes is Brandy, which is made by distilling fermented grape juice (wine). Additionally, Grappa is another distinctive spirit distilled from the solid grape remnants left after winemaking.

Grapes, with their rich sugar content, are ideal for fermentation, producing wine, which can then be further processed through distillation to create a variety of potent alcoholic beverages.

Brandy: The Refined Spirit of Wine

Brandy, derived from the Dutch word "brandewijn" meaning "burnt wine," is arguably the most well-known spirit distilled from grapes. The process involves fermenting grape juice into wine, which is then heated in a still to separate the alcohol. This distilled spirit is often aged in wooden barrels, typically oak, which imparts color, flavor, and smoothness.

Key Characteristics of Brandy:

• Source Material: Primarily distilled from wine, which is fermented grape juice.
• Aging: Most brandies are aged, contributing to their complex flavor profiles, ranging from fruity and floral to spicy and nutty.
• Global Variations: Brandy is produced worldwide, with notable regional variations.

Examples of Grape-Based Brandies:

• Cognac: A renowned type of brandy produced in the Cognac region of France, primarily from Ugni Blanc grapes. It undergoes double distillation in copper pot stills and must be aged for a minimum of two years in Limousin or Tronçais oak casks.
• Armagnac: Another esteemed French brandy from the Gascony region, often made from a blend of grapes like Baco Blanc, Ugni Blanc, and Folle Blanche. It's typically single-distilled in a continuous still and aged for extended periods.
• Pisco: A colorless or yellowish-amber brandy produced in winemaking regions of Peru and Chile. It is distilled from fermented grape must and is typically unaged or aged only briefly in non-reactive vessels.
• Metaxa: A unique Greek spirit that is a blend of brandy, wine, and Mediterranean botanicals.

Grappa: A Spirit Reborn from Pomace

While brandy comes from the liquid part of the grape (the juice that becomes wine), Grappa offers a different perspective on grape distillation. This Italian spirit is made by distilling the solid remains of grapes—known as pomace (or vinaccia in Italian). This includes the skins, pulp, seeds, and stems that are left over after grapes have been pressed for winemaking.

The Ingenuity Behind Grappa:

• Waste Prevention: Historically, grappa was conceived as a resourceful method to prevent waste by utilizing the leftover pomace. This tradition continues, turning what would otherwise be discarded into a distinctive alcoholic beverage.
• Flavor Profile: Grappa typically has a robust, aromatic, and sometimes fiery character, reflecting the grape varietals from which its pomace originated. While some grappas are aged, many are enjoyed young and clear, showcasing their pure, unadulterated grape essence.

Comparison of Grape-Derived Spirits:

To better understand the distinctions, here's a brief comparison of these grape-based spirits:

In essence, both brandy and grappa exemplify the versatility of grapes in the world of distilled spirits, each offering a unique expression derived from different components or stages of the winemaking process.