10 Best Cheap Cognacs to Drink (2024)

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10 Best Cheap Cognacs to Drink? ›

Bache-Gabrielsen Cognac Gautier Courvoisier D'USSÉ De Luze Distillerie du Peyrat Godet Hennessy Hine Levon Le Magnifique Cognac Martell Merlet Cognac Rémy Martin Shabo. Brand.

Bache-Gabrielsen Cognac Gautier Courvoisier D'USSÉ De Luze Distillerie du Peyrat Godet Hennessy Hine Levon Le Magnifique Cognac Martell Merlet Cognac Rémy Martin Shabo. Brand.

In 2022, Hennessy was the leading brandy and cognac brand in the United States with about 4.1 million 9 liter cases sold. E&J ranked second with 3.5 million cases sold.

This pairs particularly well with seafood: oysters, lobster, or sushi. For a simple long drink as an aperitif, the cognac can be consumed with tonic or ginger ale. This brings out notes of fresh fruit, even liquorice, in a Rémy Martin VSOP.

Unlike other spirits such as whisky, cognac uses letters rather than numbers to indicate its age. There are four official aging ratings for this spirit: VS, VSOP, XO and EXTRA. These have been standardized by the BNIC, a first in the world of spirits. There are six cognac crus characterizing the production area.

If you want to find yourself quality Cognac, you need to know about the grades and crus. The two lowest quality grades, V.S. and V.S.O.P., are seen as too young and are mostly neglected by connoisseurs. For them, quality cognac starts at the X.O. grade as the drink needs enough ageing to develop its complex bouquet.

From the limited reviews I have read on the internet, I should lean towards Remy - it hits all the marks in nose, taste and finish. However, Courvoisier is cheaper, a nicer bottle and apparently perfect for a bourbon drinker, which I originally am. It is also simple and its finish leaves much to be desired.

Younger cognacs lack the depth of flavor that older Cognacs have. Therefore, they are the perfect choice for mixed drinks. For co*cktails, we advise that you choose a Very Superior (VS) or Very Superior Old Pale (VSOP) Cognac and save those pricey XO and Hors d'Age spirits for sipping.

Cognac is typically smooth and fruity with notes of vanilla, while whisky can range from smoky to sweet, with hints of spice and caramel. Some popular brands of Cognac include Hennessy and Martell, while popular whisky brands include Johnnie Walker (blended scotch) and Jim Beam (American bourbon whiskey).

Cognac is a Very Superior Old Pale classification, and it is sometimes given a 5 star marking. The eau-de-vie has been aged for a legal minimum of 5 years.

What is the sweetest cognac? ›

For those looking to begin their tasting journey, it is recommended that you start with the Courvoisier V.S. Cognac, as this is an example of one of the sweetest and therefore more approachable Cognacs, whilst bottles such as Martell V.S. Cognac and Remy Martin X.O.

If you are looking for a top-quality cognac, then Remy Martin 1738 Accord Royal is your drink.

As an aperitif, cognac is usually consumed neat. Adding a drop of water will reveal more fruity, floral, and spicy aromas, making the tasting experience smoother.

There is no best way to drink cognac, it is up to personal preference. However, enjoying cognac neat and at room temperature is regarded as the best way to appreciate its aromas and flavors. What is a good mix with cognac? Coca Cola, ginger ale, iced tea and tonic are all delicious mixers to pair with cognac.

The oak, vanilla and caramel from the cognac marry the sweet fizzy cola wonderfully and actually enhance the floral essences too. A glass of VS Cognac, cola, ice, and lime is full of fizzy flavour and works surprisingly well.

Hennessy V.S delivers notes of toasted oak and fruit, accompanied by a rich, well-defined palate and a delightful exuberance. This exceptional brand has been crafting some of the finest and most sought-after cognacs in the world for over 250 years, and the tradition continues to this day.

When it comes to deciding between cognac vs whisky, the answer really depends on personal taste. Both spirits offer a unique and delicious drinking experience. And really it's up to you to decide which you prefer! You may not be surprised that I'd express a preference for whisky.