Cognac & Brandy: A Beginner’s Guide to Luxury Sipping

Cognac and brandy often bring to mind luxury, sophistication, and refinement. But these spirits aren’t just for special occasions — they can be a rewarding addition to your home bar, whether for sipping neat, mixing into elegant cocktails, or sharing with friends. With centuries of history, these spirits are as much about culture and craftsmanship as they are about taste.

At Remedy Liquor, you’ll find a wide variety of cognac and brandy options, ranging from affordable entry-level picks to collector-worthy treasures. Whether you’re just starting to explore or looking to expand your knowledge, here’s everything you should know.

What’s the Difference Between Cognac and Brandy?

While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are important distinctions:

• Brandy is a spirit distilled from wine or fermented fruit juice. It can be produced in many countries and in different styles — from French Armagnac to American apple brandy. This versatility makes brandy approachable, affordable, and highly diverse in flavor.
  
• Cognac is a specific type of brandy, much like Champagne is a type of sparkling wine. To be labeled cognac, it must come from the Cognac region of France and adhere to strict regulations, including using specific grape varieties (primarily Ugni Blanc), double distillation in copper pot stills, and aging in French oak barrels. Cognac is known for its refinement, layers of flavor, and reputation as one of the world’s most prestigious spirits.
  
  

In short: all cognac is brandy, but not all brandy is cognac.

3 Cognac & Brandy Bottles Worth Trying

1. Rémy Martin VSOP
Balanced and versatile, Rémy Martin VSOP combines floral and fruity notes with hints of oak and spice. VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) indicates at least 4 years of aging, giving this cognac depth and elegance. It’s ideal for sipping but equally impressive in a Cognac Manhattan.

2. Courvoisier XO
Rich and luxurious, Courvoisier XO is a true collector’s gem. With flavors of candied orange, crème brûlée, and iris, it offers a velvety texture that lingers on the palate. XO (Extra Old) cognacs must be aged at least 10 years, making this bottle an excellent showcase of complexity and craftsmanship.

3. Martell Cordon Bleu
An icon in the cognac world, Martell Cordon Bleu has been beloved for over a century. Expect full-bodied notes of orchard fruit, warming spices, and chocolate. It’s luxurious without being inaccessible and represents the artistry that makes Martell one of the great names in cognac.

How to Enjoy Cognac & Brandy

One of the best parts of exploring these spirits is their versatility. You can enjoy them in several ways:

• Neat: The classic method, especially for premium bottles. Use a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas.
  
• On the Rocks: Adding a cube of ice can slightly dilute and open up the flavors, softening intensity while highlighting sweetness and fruit.
  
• In Cocktails: Cognac and brandy shine in timeless recipes. Try a Sidecar (cognac, orange liqueur, lemon juice), a Brandy Alexander (brandy, crème de cacao, cream), or a French 75 (cognac or gin, champagne, lemon, sugar).
  
  

Storing Cognac & Brandy

To preserve flavor and value, follow these tips:

• Store bottles upright, not on their side.
• Keep them in a cool, dark place, away from sunlight and temperature extremes.
  
• Once opened, enjoy within 1–2 years. They won’t “spoil,” but the flavors can slowly fade after prolonged exposure to air.
  
  

Conclusion

Whether you’re new to the category or a seasoned collector, cognac and brandy bring sophistication and depth to any bar. From everyday choices like E&J Brandy VS to luxurious sippers like Courvoisier XO or Martell Cordon Bleu, there’s a bottle for every palate and budget. These spirits connect tradition with modern enjoyment, offering a perfect blend of luxury and versatility.

Ready to explore? Browse the full cognac and brandy selection at Remedy Liquor and discover your next bottle today.

FAQ 

Q: Is all cognac brandy?
A: Yes. Cognac is a specific type of brandy produced in the Cognac region of France under strict regulations.

Q: What’s the difference between VS, VSOP, and XO?
A: These are aging categories. VS (Very Special): at least 2 years, VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): at least 4 years, XO (Extra Old): at least 10 years.

Q: Can I use cognac and brandy in cocktails?
A: Absolutely. They are staples in classics like the Sidecar, Brandy Alexander, and French 75, but they also shine in modern craft recipes.

Q: Do cognac and brandy improve after opening?
A: No. Unlike wine, they do not continue aging once bottled. Open bottles should be consumed within 1–2 years for best flavor.