Brasserie Cognac Launches Cognac School

BRASSERIE COGNAC LAUNCHES COGNAC SCHOOL
October Tasting Course Aims to Demystify Cognac

NEW YORK, NY- September 23, 2008 - Brasserie Cognac de Monsieur Ballon (1740 Broadway, 212.757.3600) will host a special Cognac School that aims to shed light on this under-appreciated brandy. The month-long program, which runs from 5 - 6:30 p.m. on Saturdays beginning October 18 and ending November 8, will cover four main topics to highlight the rich history, tradition and versatility of cognac. Each course provides a sampling of some of the most distinctive producers on the restaurant's 102-bottle cognac menu. Space is limited and reservations must be made in advance. The cost is $60 per person for each class, or $100 for two.

The first class takes place on October 18 and functions as a broad-based introduction to cognac. Led by noted expert Alain Royer, the 6th generation member of a cognac-producing family, this class will clarify cognac basics and offer an opportunity to sample various cognac vintages.

The next class on October 25 will showcase boutique producers of cognac with an emphasis on artisanal houses and lesser-known vintages. The third class on November 1 will demonstrate how to use cognac as a base for inventive cocktails. Guests will mix their own unique drinks and learn how to create easy and distinctive cocktails for elegant entertaining or intimate nights at home. The final course on November 8 will feature Executive Chef Florian Hugo in a discussion on cooking with cognac. Guests will learn how to create cognac-based sauces and gain insight into the art of flamb�. This is a participatory class with guests cooking and tasting the various dishes created in the program.

Brasserie Cognac offers French brasserie classics executed with precision and panache. Owned by noted restaurateurs Vittorio Assaf and Fabio Granato of Serafina and Geisha fame, Brasserie Cognac is a vibrant addition to New York's booming Midtown district.

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