Cognac intimidates most spirits drinkers. The categories seem arcane, the prices seem high, and the marketing leans stuffy. Crystal and Roger have reviewed the full cognac spectrum and identified exactly which bottles make the best entry points — and why. Why Cognac Is Worth Starting Cognac is double-distilled grape brandy aged in French oak — at its best, one of the most aromatic and complex spirits in the world. Grande Champagne terroir creates eaux-de-vie that age for deca

These are the two names most people reach for when they think cognac. One dominates hip-hop culture and nightlife. One represents the highest tier of Grande Champagne production. Crystal and Roger have reviewed both — here's the real comparison. The Bottles (VSOP comparison) Hennessy VSOP: blend from all four Cognac crus — Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois. 40% ABV. ~$50. Owned by LVMH. The most recognizable cognac brand in the world. Rémy Martin VSOP:

Cognac and Armagnac are two of the most underappreciated spirit categories in America — and Crystal and Roger have reviewed more of them than almost any independent spirits podcast. This is the definitive ranked list. 🥇 #1 — Pierre Ferrand 10 Generations | 300 Years of French Brandy Mastery in a Glass Ten generations of the Ferrand family producing Grande Champagne cognac — the finest terroir in the category. Crystal and Roger called this the bottle that stops conversations.

The most-asked cognac and brandy questions — answered by Crystal and Roger of The Liquor Connoisseur®. What is cognac and how is it made? Cognac is a double-distilled grape brandy from the Cognac region of France, aged in French oak barrels. It must be made from specific grape varieties (primarily Ugni Blanc), distilled in copper pot stills, and aged at least 2 years. The Charente region's chalky soil creates a unique terroir that defines the spirit's character. What is the d

Pierre Ferrand 10 Generations Cognac is named for a family commitment that spans centuries — ten generations of Ferrand family involvement in the Cognac trade. Crystal and Roger taste through this expression and evaluate whether a family legacy makes a better brandy. Bottle Specs Spirit: Pierre Ferrand 10 Generations Cognac House: Pierre Ferrand (Alexandre Gabriel, Cognac House) Region: Grande Champagne, Cognac, France (premier cru) Category: Grande Champagne Cognac — no age

🍇 SPIRIT 101: COGNAC & ARMAGNAC Cognac is the most famous brandy in the world. Armagnac is France's oldest. Both are made from grapes in southwestern France — but they are produced in different ways, have different characters, and tell different stories. This guide covers both. What is Brandy? Brandy is simply distilled wine or fermented fruit juice. It can be made anywhere in the world from almost any fruit. But the most celebrated brandies in the world come from France — C

Pierre Ferrand Ambré Cognac is the one Crystal and Roger call 'the nectar of Cognacs' — high praise for an entry-level expression from one of the most serious Cognac producers working today. They taste with intent and explain why this Grande Champagne Cognac at its accessible price point is one of the best value bottles in the category. Bottle Specs Spirit: Pierre Ferrand Ambré Cognac House: Pierre Ferrand (Maison Ferrand, Alexandre Gabriel) Region: Grande Champagne — premier

Cognac, often hailed as the "king of brandies," is a world-renowned French spirit known for its exceptional quality and rich history....