Cognac & Brandy FAQ — The Most-Asked Questions Answered | The Liquor Connoisseur®
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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 difference between VS, VSOP, and XO cognac?
VS (Very Special) means the youngest brandy in the blend is aged at least 2 years. VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) means at least 4 years. XO (Extra Old) means at least 10 years. These are minimum requirements — many houses age their cognacs much longer than the minimums.
What is the difference between cognac and Armagnac?
Both are French grape brandies, but Armagnac is produced in Gascony using a single-pass column still that creates a richer, more rustic character than cognac's double distillation. Armagnac is often vintage-dated, giving you a brandy from a specific year rather than a blend. Crystal and Roger reviewed Eric Artiguelongue Bas-Armagnac XO and found exceptional value at $65.
What is the best cognac under $50?
Pierre Ferrand 1840 Original Formula (~$38) is Crystal and Roger's top pick — Grande Champagne terroir, 45% ABV, designed for both cocktails and sipping. Rémy Martin VSOP (~$45) is the best mainstream option. Read the full Pierre Ferrand 1840 review on this blog.
What is the difference between cognac and brandy?
All cognac is brandy, but not all brandy is cognac. Brandy is simply a distilled spirit made from fermented fruit — it can be made anywhere in the world. Cognac is a protected designation of origin, meaning it can only be called cognac if it meets strict requirements and is made in the Cognac region of France.
What is Presidente Brandy?
Presidente is a Mexican brandy — one of the most-reviewed bottles on The Liquor Connoisseur®. At around $12, it's the most underrated bottle in any liquor store and Crystal and Roger's top recommendation for anyone new to the brandy category. Smooth, sweet, and genuinely enjoyable at a price that makes it the easiest yes in spirits.
🥃 Want to Explore These Spirits With an Expert?
Crystal and Roger lead private spirits tasting experiences covering cognac, rum, and every major category. Corporate tastings from $1,500. In-home tastings from $500. Virtual tastings available nationwide.
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