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The number of Masters of Wine (MWs) in the world, who live and work in 25 different countries. The MW qualification is generally regarded as one of the highest achievements of professional knowledge in the wine industry. A related qualification–the Master Sommelier–is more focused on wine service. There are 38 MWs in the U.S., 14 of whom are women.

Cognac and Armagnac have essentially the same flavor.

Answer: False.

Cognac and Armagnac are both brandies made in their respective villages in the southwest of France. Both are made mainly from ugni blanc grapes, and both are distilled to create the brandies. There are however differences in the way the two brandies taste. Cognac tends to be more floral, grapey and fragrant with a good bite of alcohol in the finish. Armagnacs are fuller bodied with more pruney, dried fruit character.

“It seems almost a moral obligation [in the Napa Valley] to make wines with a life, because you can’t do that everywhere. It’s a gift.”

―Cathy Corison, Corison Winery, as quoted in Wine Revolution by Jane Anson

―Cathy Corison, Corison Winery, as quoted in Wine Revolution by Jane Anson

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