Who Is Tim?
My name is Tim Brinkmann and while I'd prefer to answer your questions in person at my store, you will always have 24-hour access to my wine and spirits knowledge on my Ask Tim page. My background and my passion both lie in the wine and spirits industry, with over 10 years experience as a spirits wholesaler and 9 years in fine wine distribution. I opened Brinkmann's Wine & Spirits because I love to discover new wines and spirits and I have a great appreciation for the evolution, growth, and maturity of existing brands. Please come visit me in the store so we can talk shop, or feel free to interact with me here. Just remember: Good, Better... Brinkmann's!

Updated April 19, 2009

Sally asked Tim -
My husband loves cognacs and I want to get him a special anniversary present, but Im having a hard time understanding the labels. What are the grades/labels of cognac?
Tim responds -
There are three grades of cognac. Very special, V.S, is where the brandy is stored for at least three years in a barrel. Very special old pale, V.S.O.P, is aged four and a half years in a barrel. Lastly, extra old, X.O, is is aged for six and a half years or more. We have a variety of cognacs I am sure he would enjoy. Cheers, Sally!
Mr. Clemens writes -
I know I like the taste, but what exactly is cognac?
Tim responds -
Cognac is a popular brandy named after the town of Cognac, France. It's distilled twice and then aged in oak barrels for at least two years. Cognac uses specific types of grapes found in France, such as the Ugni Blanc and Colombard varieties, to create its unique flavor. At Brinkmann's, we have a huge selection of cognacs. So come on by and see me, Mr. Clemens. By the way, do you speak French? Cheers!