Cognac is a type of brandy, which is a distilled spirit made from fermented fruit juice. It is named after the commune of Cognac, France, and is produced in the surrounding wine-growing region in the departments of Charente and Charente-Maritime. Cognac is made exclusively with grapes that are known for their superior aromatic properties, grown in the departments of western France. To earn the designation of cognac, the spirit must meet certain specific criteria. It must be made in the state of Charente in the Cognac region of France, and be made from white grapes from one of six different terroirs; the Ugni Blanc grape variety is its primary ingredient, and grapes from "Grande Champagne" terroir are the most coveted. Cognac is a protected category of brandy that must meet the requirements of the appellation d’origine contrôllée (AOC) in order to bear the region’s name on its label. Cognac is barrel-aged, which gives it a rich, velvety brown color and a unique flavor profile. Cognac can be enjoyed on its own or used in cocktails, such as the Brandy Alexander.