Brandies, such as cognac, are renowned for colors, flavors and aromas that require years to achieve. But scientists in Spain have used ultrasound to cut the time needed for such spirits to mature down to days.
Brandies, stemming from the Dutch brandewijn, or “burned wine,” are powerful alcoholic spirits distilled from wines or other fermented fruit juices. One brandy connoisseur of note, the poet Samuel Johnson, noted that “claret is the liquor for boys; port for men; but he who aspires to be a hero must drink brandy.” The reputation of brandies often help them fetch top dollar: In 2011, a world record was set in Shanghai for an 1858 cognac named Cuvee Leonie that sold for 1 million Chinese yuan (US$156,700). According to London-based market research firm Technavio, the global brandy market is expected to exceed $63 billion by 2020.
