Cognac
Cognac: France’s Iconic Brandy Defined
Cognac is a premium style of brandy, produced under strict regulations in the Cognac region of southwestern France, specifically within the Charente and Charente-Maritime departments. It’s protected by the French Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) designation, which ensures authentic production methods, specific grape sourcing, and geographical origin. To be officially labeled as Cognac, the spirit must originate from one of six defined crus: Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bons Bois, or Bois Ordinaires. Each area has distinct soil and climate characteristics that contribute to the complexity and aging potential of the final product.
By law, Cognac must be aged for a minimum of two years in French oak barrels, primarily sourced from Limousin or Tronçais forests. During this maturation process, the spirit develops its signature amber hue, rich aromatics, and layered flavors. Over time, the alcohol content naturally reduces to around 40% ABV (80 proof), resulting in a balanced and refined spirit prized worldwide for its elegance and depth.
What Is Cognac Made Of?
Cognac is crafted from a blend of white grapes, with at least 90% made up of Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard. The remaining 10% can include lesser-known varietals like Folignan, Montils, Jurançon Blanc, Sélect, Meslier St‑François, and Sémillon. These grapes are naturally high in acidity and low in sugar, making them ideal for distillation but nearly undrinkable as table wines.
After harvest, grapes are pressed and fermented using native wild yeasts, with no added sugars or sulfur. The resulting dry wine is then distilled twice in traditional Charentais copper pot stills, creating a clear, high-proof spirit known as eau-de-vie, typically around 140 proof (70% ABV).
What Does Cognac Taste Like?
Describing the taste of Cognac isn’t one-size-fits-all, every bottle offers a distinct profile shaped by its grapes, aging, and craftsmanship. However, there are some classic flavor markers that help define Cognac’s luxurious identity. Most Cognacs reveal a smooth, layered flavor with notes such as:
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Candied and caramelized fruits (like apricot, fig, or orange peel)
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Vanilla, baking spices, and toasted oak
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Hints of leather, cocoa, or tobacco
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Subtle citrus and floral aromatics
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A gentle smokiness or rancio in older expressions
These flavors develop naturally from the fermentation and aging of high-acid, low-sugar grapes, primarily Ugni Blanc, which are dry and almost undrinkable before distillation. Once transformed into eau-de-vie and matured in French oak, they take on remarkable depth and complexity.
What Are the Types of Cognac?
Cognac is graded based on the age of the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend, with aging taking place in French oak barrels. These designations, regulated by the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), help consumers gauge the flavor, smoothness, and overall maturity of the spirit.
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VS (Very Special) Cognac is the youngest official grade, containing brandy that has been aged for at least two years. These expressions are typically lively, fruit-forward, and ideal for mixing into cocktails or casual sipping.
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VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) must be aged a minimum of four years, offering more balance, complexity, and roundness than VS. You’ll often find notes of vanilla, spice, and dried fruit, making it a solid choice for both sipping and elevated cocktails.
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Napoléon Cognac is aged for at least six years and bridges the gap between VSOP and XO in terms of depth and smoothness. While not as widely used commercially, it’s a favorite among those seeking a richer, more developed profile without the price tag of XO.
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XO (Extra Old) represents the luxury tier, requiring a minimum aging of ten years. These Cognacs are full-bodied, silky, and layered with notes like fig, leather, toasted oak, and a lingering rancio, a nutty, oxidative flavor prized in older brandies.
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XXO (Extra Extra Old) must be aged for at least fourteen years and delivers an exceptionally rich and refined experience. This relatively new classification caters to collectors and enthusiasts seeking ultra-aged Cognacs with profound depth and elegance.
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Hors d’Âge, meaning “beyond age,” is used for Cognacs that exceed even the XO and XXO standards, often aged 30 years or more. These rare expressions showcase the pinnacle of craftsmanship and are typically reserved for special editions or high-end releases.
What Are the Best Brands of Cognac?
When it comes to premium Cognac, several brands have earned global recognition for their heritage, consistency, and craftsmanship. These top producers offer everything from entry-level VS expressions to ultra-aged blends sought after by collectors and connoisseurs.
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Hennessy is arguably the most famous name in Cognac, producing nearly half of the world’s supply. Known for its bold flavor and wide range from VS to the luxurious Paradis, Hennessy remains a staple for both new drinkers and seasoned fans.
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Rémy Martin is respected for crafting Cognac exclusively from grapes grown in the Grande and Petite Champagne crus. Their expressions are elegant and rich, with the iconic XO and Louis XIII leading the charge in prestige.
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Courvoisier, often dubbed “The Cognac of Napoleon,” is known for its smooth, aromatic blends with floral and fruity notes. It offers a great entry point for those exploring Cognac for the first time.
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Martell, one of the oldest Cognac houses, is celebrated for its refined style and signature eaux-de-vie from the Borderies cru. Martell Blue Swift, a VSOP finished in bourbon casks, has also gained attention for blending French tradition with American influence.
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D’USSÉ, a newer brand founded by renowned cellar master Michel Casavecchia and backed by cultural icon Jay-Z, has quickly made a name for itself with its bold, contemporary style. Known for its smooth VSOP and rich XO, D’USSÉ blends modern luxury with centuries-old French tradition.
Let the Brands Be Your Guide
Each Cognac house, from heritage labels to modern craft producers, cultivates its own flavor signature. Even with similar production rules, brand-specific blends and barrel techniques create noticeable differences. Most producers provide tasting notes on their labels or websites, which offer a solid preview of what to expect in the glass.
Cognac Delivery in Los Angeles & Nationwide Shipping
Ordering premium Cognac online has never been easier. At Juicefly Spirits, we offer a handpicked selection of top Cognac brands, perfect for connoisseurs and first-time sippers alike. From classic VSOPs to luxurious XOs and rare limited editions, we make it effortless to shop from the comfort of your home.
If you're in Los Angeles, enjoy our fast, same-day Cognac delivery service. Most orders arrive within 60 minutes, delivered by our professional in-house team. We proudly serve all major LA neighborhoods, including Downtown LA, Santa Monica, West Hollywood, Venice, Beverly Hills, and Pasadena. Every order includes real-time tracking and secure handling, ensuring a smooth and reliable experience from checkout to your doorstep.
Not based in LA? No problem. Juicefly Spirits also offers nationwide shipping on all Cognac selections, including VS, VSOP, XO, and Hors d’Âge expressions. Each bottle is packaged securely and discreetly, so whether you’re replenishing your home bar or sending a thoughtful gift, you can trust it will arrive in pristine condition.
Please note: You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol. An adult signature is required upon delivery.