Distillation is an essential process for the production of a spirit.
Aguardiente is a concept that is formed with two terms: water and burning . The idea of water can refer to the liquid that lacks flavor, color and smell and that has molecules composed of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms ( H2O ). The term can also refer to any liquid obtained by emulsifying, dissolving or infusing fruits or plants.
As for the concept of burning , it is an adjective that describes what burns or what causes burning . Something burning, in this way, generates a sensation of heat .
What is brandy
An alcoholic beverage that is obtained through a distillation process is called spirits . It is produced from the fermentation of different cereals, fruits and other products of agricultural origin.
Fermentation takes place when certain microorganisms act on the sugars in the raw material and generate alcohol. Specifically, ethanol arises from the sucrose present in the plant, grain or fruit.
The fermented product is then subjected to distillation . The spirit is, in essence, the ethanol in question diluted in water. As it has a high alcohol content, brandy is considered a spirit drink .
Historical tour
It is estimated that distillation, initially, was applied to obtain perfumes . The passage of time meant that the process also began to be used to produce alcoholic beverages.
The Arabs played a fundamental role since they created the alquitaras and the stills used for distilling. In these containers equipped with conduits, liquids could be heated in order to separate the distilled substances.
The Arab incursion into Spanish territory contributed to spreading these techniques on the European continent. By the beginning of the Middle Ages , the methods used to achieve distillation had already been perfected.
Cognac is a spirit that is consumed in many countries.
Different types of spirits
It is important to consider that there is not a single type of spirit. All spirit drinks that are made by distilling an alcoholic fermentation can be called this way.
A first classification allows us to distinguish between simple spirits and complex spirits . In the first case, the resulting drink maintains the original flavors of the production process, while ingredients that do not form alcohol are added to complex spirits.
Simple spirits are the most popular. Whiskey , rum , tequila and brandy are part of this group.
Cereal-based products
Whiskey may be referred to as a grain spirit . It is usually produced with corn , wheat , barley or rye and includes different varieties, such as bourbon .
Vodka is another grain spirit. Its preparation requires the use of species with a high starch content, such as wheat or rye .
The fermentation of rice , meanwhile, makes it possible to obtain sake . This typical Japanese drink is also known as rice wine .
Grape spirits
Grape spirits or wine spirits are widely consumed worldwide. Brandy , pisco , cognac and grappa are among the best known.
It is interesting to mention that, sometimes, the name of the drink depends on the region or certain characteristics. Cognac , for example, is a particular brandy. However, the definition of each product varies and may even be stipulated by local laws.