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Brandy Guide

Find your brandy! Explore important brandy brands and distilleries at Sip & Salt to choose the perfect brandy for sipping, mixing, or savoring.

10 Popular Brandies to Try

by Ginny Day November 19, 2024

Brandy, a spirit made by distilling wine or other fermented fruit juices, is a versatile and timeless drink with a rich history and a global footprint. From the luxurious Cognacs of France to the smooth Armagnacs and vibrant fruit brandies from around the world, there’s a brandy to suit every palate. Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just starting your exploration, here are 10 popular brandies you should try.

1. Hennessy VS (France)

One of the most iconic Cognac brands in the world, Hennessy VS (Very Special) offers an approachable entry into French brandy. Aged for at least two years in oak barrels, it has notes of dried fruit, vanilla, and oak, making it perfect for sipping neat or in cocktails.

Why Try It? Hennessy VS is a staple for anyone exploring Cognac and pairs beautifully with mixers like ginger ale.

2. Rémy Martin XO (France)

For a more luxurious experience, try Rémy Martin XO. This extra-old Cognac is a blend of eaux-de-vie aged up to 37 years. It boasts flavors of ripe figs, candied orange, and warm spices with an exceptionally smooth finish.

Why Try It? It’s a treat for special occasions and pairs well with dark chocolate or a fine cigar.

3. Martell Cordon Bleu (France)

Martell is one of Cognac’s oldest houses, and its Cordon Bleu is a standout. Known for its elegance and complexity, it features flavors of orchard fruits, honey, and subtle spices with a velvety texture.

Why Try It? A favorite among Cognac connoisseurs, this brandy is ideal for those seeking a rich, refined experience.

4. Delord 15-Year-Old Armagnac (France)

Armagnac, Cognac’s rustic cousin, offers a bolder, more robust flavor. Delord’s 15-Year-Old Armagnac is a fantastic example, with deep notes of prune, toasted nuts, and caramel.

Why Try It? For those who enjoy depth and complexity, this Armagnac is a perfect introduction to the style.

5. Cardenal Mendoza Solera Gran Reserva (Spain)

Hailing from Spain, this Solera-aged brandy is rich, sweet, and complex. It’s aged in barrels previously used for Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso sherry, imparting flavors of dried fruit, molasses, and chocolate.

Why Try It? A fantastic dessert brandy, it’s best enjoyed neat or with a touch of dark chocolate.

6. Metaxa 12 Stars (Greece)

Metaxa is a unique Greek brandy blended with Muscat wine and botanicals. The 12 Stars expression offers notes of orange peel, dried figs, and floral honey, with a smooth, aromatic finish.

Why Try It? It’s a versatile brandy that works equally well neat, over ice, or in cocktails.

7. E&J VSOP (United States)

This California brandy is a wallet-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on quality. Aged in American oak barrels, E&J VSOP has a smooth profile with notes of apple, vanilla, and toasted oak.

Why Try It? It’s a great everyday brandy for mixing into cocktails or sipping casually.

8. St-Rémy XO (France)

As one of the most widely available brandies, St-Rémy XO is a crowd-pleaser. Made from grapes sourced across France, it offers flavors of plum, vanilla, and toasted almonds with a smooth, warming finish.

Why Try It? A versatile and affordable choice that’s perfect for both sipping and mixing.

9. Calvados Boulard VSOP (France)

From the Normandy region of France, Calvados is an apple brandy that offers a fresh, fruity alternative to grape-based brandy. Boulard VSOP is aged for at least four years, with flavors of baked apples, caramel, and spice.

Why Try It? For fans of fruit-forward spirits, Calvados is a delightful departure from traditional brandies.

10. Christian Brothers Brandy (United States)

An American classic, Christian Brothers Brandy is an approachable and budget-friendly option. With notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak, it’s an easygoing brandy that works well in cocktails.

Why Try It? It’s perfect for those just starting their journey into brandy or for crafting simple, delicious mixed drinks.

How to Enjoy Brandy

Each brandy offers a unique experience, and how you enjoy it can enhance its flavors:

Neat: Sip it straight from a tulip glass to appreciate its aromas and flavors.
Over Ice: A few ice cubes can mellow stronger brandies and bring out sweeter notes.
Cocktails: From a classic Sidecar to a modern Brandy Old Fashioned, these spirits are incredibly versatile for mixing.

A World of Flavors

Brandy is a world of flavors waiting to be explored. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of French Cognac, the boldness of Spanish brandy, or the fresh fruitiness of Calvados, there’s a bottle out there for you. Start with these ten popular options to discover the rich diversity and craftsmanship of this timeless spirit.

Cheers to your brandy journey—sip, savor, and enjoy!

Brandy Brandy Basics Brandy Guide

Aguardente: Portugal’s Distinctive Brandy

by Ginny Day November 17, 2024

When we think of brandy, France often comes to mind with its world-renowned Cognac and Armagnac. But Portugal also has a long tradition of producing its own version of brandy, known as Aguardente. This potent, versatile spirit is deeply rooted in Portuguese culture and plays a key role in the production of some of the country’s most famous wines, such as Port.

While Aguardente may not enjoy the same global recognition as Cognac, it’s a beloved spirit in Portugal, prized for its strength, warmth, and range of uses—from sipping to fortifying wines. In this post, we’ll explore what makes Aguardente unique, its production process, and its significance in Portuguese traditions.

What is Aguardente?

The term “Aguardente” translates literally to “burning water” (from the Latin aqua ardens), a fitting name for a strong distilled spirit that can pack a punch with its high alcohol content, usually ranging between 40-60% ABV. Aguardente is a general term in Portuguese used to describe distilled spirits, but when people refer to Portuguese brandy, they typically mean Aguardente Bagaceira or Aguardente Vinica, both of which are made from grapes.

Aguardente is produced in several regions of Portugal, each with its own local variations, but it’s best known for its use in fortified wines like Port and Madeira, where it plays an essential role in halting fermentation and preserving the sweetness of these iconic wines.

Types of Aguardente

There are a few different types of Aguardente, and it’s important to distinguish between them:

1. Aguardente Bagaceira

Aguardente Bagaceira is a pomace brandy, similar to Italy’s grappa. It’s made by distilling the leftover grape skins, seeds, and stems (known as “pomace”) after the grapes have been pressed for wine. Bagaceira is known for its rustic, robust flavors and can vary widely in quality, from harsh, fiery spirits to smoother, more refined versions. It is most commonly consumed in the northern and central regions of Portugal.

2. Aguardente Vinica

Aguardente Vinica, or wine brandy, is distilled directly from wine rather than pomace, making it closer in style to traditional brandies like Cognac or Armagnac. This type of Aguardente is smoother and often aged in oak barrels, giving it a more refined character with notes of vanilla, spices, and dried fruits.

3. Aguardente de Medronho

Although not made from grapes, another notable type of Aguardente is Aguardente de Medronho, a spirit distilled from the fruit of the medronho (strawberry tree), which grows in the mountainous regions of southern Portugal, particularly in the Algarve and Alentejo. This type of Aguardente is highly traditional and often produced by small, family-run distilleries. It has a unique, fruity flavor and is consumed as a regional specialty.

The Role of Aguardente in Portuguese Wines

Aguardente plays a crucial role in one of Portugal’s most famous exports: Port wine. During the production of Port, Aguardente is added to partially fermented grape must to stop fermentation. This process preserves the natural sweetness of the grapes, resulting in the rich, sweet, fortified wine that Port is known for.

The specific type of Aguardente used in Port production is known as Aguardente Vinica, a neutral, high-proof grape spirit that doesn’t impart strong flavors of its own, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes to shine. The same process is used in the production of Madeira, another fortified wine that’s deeply associated with Portugal’s winemaking tradition.

The Production Process

While Aguardente Bagaceira and Vinica are produced differently, they both involve the distillation of grape products, and the process is relatively simple yet highly artisanal:

1. Fermentation: In the case of Aguardente Bagaceira, the leftover pomace from wine production (grape skins, seeds, and stems) is collected after pressing. For Aguardente Vinica, the fermentation process starts with whole grapes or wine.

2. Distillation: The pomace or wine is then distilled in traditional copper pot stills. This method ensures that the spirit captures the essence of the grapes, whether it’s the fresh, rustic flavors of the pomace or the smoother, more refined notes of distilled wine.

3. Aging: While some types of Aguardente, especially Bagaceira, are consumed young and unaged, others, such as Aguardente Vinica Velha (old wine brandy), are aged in oak barrels. The aging process gives these brandies their golden color and deepens their flavor profile with layers of spice, dried fruit, and wood notes, much like French brandies.

4. Bottling: After distillation (and aging, if applicable), Aguardente is typically bottled at a high proof, ready to be enjoyed on its own or used in fortified wine production.

How to Enjoy Aguardente

Aguardente, particularly Bagaceira, is often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal, where its warming qualities and strong character help aid digestion. It is traditionally served neat in a small glass, and its high alcohol content means that a little goes a long way. Aguardente is also commonly enjoyed in social settings, particularly in rural regions, where it’s shared among friends and family at local festivals or gatherings.

Aged Aguardente, such as Aguardente Velha, can be sipped like a fine Cognac or Armagnac, with a more nuanced flavor profile that can appeal to those who enjoy well-aged spirits.

For those who find the strength of Aguardente a bit overpowering, it can also be used in cocktails, though it’s less common than other spirits like gin or rum in Portuguese mixology. However, creative bartenders are beginning to experiment with Aguardente as a base spirit in cocktails, combining it with citrus, herbs, and sweeteners to balance its boldness.

Aguardente in Portuguese Cuisine

Aguardente’s influence extends beyond the glass—it also plays an important role in Portuguese cuisine, particularly in desserts and regional recipes. In many rural regions, Aguardente is used as a key ingredient in traditional sweets and cakes, often added to doughs or batters to impart flavor and aroma.

For example, Aguardente is sometimes used in making filhós, a type of fried dough pastry that’s commonly enjoyed during the Christmas season. It’s also used in various marinades and sauces to add depth to savory dishes, especially in rural Portuguese cooking.

Aguardente’s Role in Portuguese Tradition

Though it may not be as internationally well-known as other types of brandy, Aguardente holds a special place in Portuguese culture. Whether distilled from pomace, wine, or the fruit of the medronho tree, Aguardente reflects the deep connection between the land, the people, and their traditional methods of producing spirits. It’s not just a drink—it’s a part of Portugal’s culinary and social fabric, enjoyed at gatherings, during meals, and in the production of the country’s famous wines.

For those looking to expand their appreciation of brandy beyond the borders of France, Aguardente offers a robust, earthy, and authentic taste of Portugal’s centuries-old spirit-making traditions. Whether sipping a glass of Aguardente Bagaceira after dinner or savoring the smoothness of an aged Aguardente Vinica, this unique brandy is a true reflection of Portugal’s artisanal heritage.

Brandy Brandy Basics Brandy Guide

Armagnac: France’s Oldest Brandy

by Ginny Day November 17, 2024

When people think of French brandy, Cognac often steals the spotlight, but just to the south, in the Gascony region, lies another equally storied spirit: Armagnac. Known as France’s oldest brandy, Armagnac is beloved by those who appreciate its robust flavors, artisanal production methods, and rich history. While Cognac may be more widely recognized, Armagnac offers a unique and often more rustic alternative that is well worth exploring.

In this post, we’ll dive into what makes Armagnac special, its production process, and how to enjoy this incredible spirit.

A Brief History of Armagnac

Armagnac’s origins date back to at least the 14th century, making it France’s oldest known brandy. Historical records from as early as 1310 mention the use of Armagnac for medicinal purposes, and by the 15th century, it was being consumed more widely as a pleasure drink.

The spirit is named after the region of Armagnac in Gascony, a historical province in southwestern France known for its rolling hills, hearty cuisine, and rugged landscapes. Unlike Cognac, which developed later and became more commercialized due to its proximity to the coast and trade routes, Armagnac remained more isolated and artisanal in nature. For centuries, it was produced by small, family-run distilleries, and many of those traditions are still alive today.

What Makes Armagnac Different from Cognac?

Though both are grape-based brandies, Armagnac and Cognac have key differences that set them apart in terms of production, flavor, and history.

1. Geography

Armagnac is produced in the Gascony region, which is located inland, farther south than the Cognac region. This warmer climate results in different grape varieties and growing conditions, influencing the flavor of the final product. The Armagnac region is divided into three main areas, or terroirs:

• Bas-Armagnac: Known for producing the finest, most complex Armagnacs, thanks to its sandy, acidic soil.

• Ténarèze: Produces fuller, rounder spirits that are well-suited for aging.

• Haut-Armagnac: The least prolific in terms of production, but still contributes to the overall diversity of the region.

2. Distillation

Armagnac is typically distilled using a single continuous distillation process in a traditional copper still called an alambic Armagnacais, which results in a lower alcohol content (around 52-60%) compared to Cognac’s double distillation process. This single distillation preserves more of the original grape flavor and gives Armagnac its robust, earthy character. Cognac, on the other hand, is double-distilled in pot stills, which tends to produce a lighter, more refined spirit.

3. Grapes

Armagnac is traditionally made from a broader variety of grapes than Cognac, with Ugni Blanc (the primary grape in Cognac) being just one of several used. Other common grape varieties include:

• Baco 22A: A hybrid grape unique to Armagnac, known for its ability to produce bold, rich spirits.

• Folle Blanche: Adds floral and fruity notes but is sensitive to disease, so it’s less commonly used today.

• Colombard: Known for its spicy, peppery notes.

4. Aging

Like Cognac, Armagnac is aged in oak barrels, but the type of oak and aging practices can differ. Armagnac is often aged in black Gascon oak, which gives it a stronger tannic structure and more pronounced wood flavors. Over time, the spirit mellows, developing complex notes of dried fruit, spices, and vanilla. Armagnac is typically aged for long periods, and older Armagnacs are prized for their deep, concentrated flavors.

Armagnac Classifications

Armagnac, like Cognac, uses age classifications to indicate how long the spirit has been aged. These categories help consumers understand the flavor profile and quality of the Armagnac they’re purchasing:

• VS (Very Special): The youngest Armagnac in the blend has been aged for at least two years. VS Armagnacs tend to be bold, lively, and fruit-forward, perfect for cocktails or casual sipping.

• VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): Aged for a minimum of four years. VSOP Armagnacs are more rounded and complex, with richer fruit and spice notes.

• XO (Extra Old): Aged for at least 10 years. XO Armagnacs are often deep, rich, and luxurious, with layers of flavor from dried fruit, tobacco, nuts, and oak.

• Hors d’Âge: Aged for at least 10 years, but in practice, this term is often used for much older Armagnacs, sometimes aged for decades. These are highly prized for their complexity and depth.

In addition to these classifications, some producers release vintage Armagnacs, which are made from grapes harvested in a single year. These can be exceptional for collectors and enthusiasts looking to experience a specific year’s characteristics.

How to Enjoy Armagnac

Armagnac’s robust, full-bodied nature makes it an incredibly versatile spirit. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy it:

1. Neat: Armagnac is often best enjoyed neat, particularly the older expressions like XO or Hors d’Âge. Pour it into a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate the aromas, and let it rest for a few minutes before sipping to allow the flavors to fully develop. As you sip, you’ll notice layers of fruit, spices, and oak that reveal themselves over time.

2. With Water or Ice: While purists may prefer their Armagnac neat, adding a small splash of water or a single ice cube can help open up the spirit’s aromas and flavors, especially in younger expressions like VS or VSOP.

3. In Cocktails: Though Armagnac is often enjoyed neat, it’s also a fantastic base for cocktails, particularly for those looking to explore alternatives to Cognac or whiskey. Classic cocktails like the Sidecar or Brandy Sour can easily be adapted to feature Armagnac. Its bold, rustic character adds a unique twist to these familiar drinks.

4. As a Digestif: In France, Armagnac is traditionally enjoyed as a digestif—a drink served after a meal to aid digestion. Its rich, warming qualities make it the perfect companion to dessert or coffee.

5. With Food Pairings: Armagnac pairs beautifully with food, particularly rich, hearty dishes from the Gascony region. Try it with dishes like duck confit, foie gras, or blue cheese, as the spirit’s robust flavors can stand up to bold, savory foods. It’s also a wonderful companion to chocolate desserts or dried fruit-based treats.

A Growing Appreciation for Armagnac

While Cognac has long been the dominant French brandy on the global stage, Armagnac has steadily gained recognition in recent years for its artisanal production methods and bold, complex flavors. The rise of craft spirits and the increased interest in small-batch, handcrafted products have helped bring Armagnac to a wider audience of spirits enthusiasts.

Armagnac producers, many of which are still small, family-owned operations, take pride in preserving their traditional methods while experimenting with new ways to showcase the unique terroir of the region. As a result, Armagnac offers something that feels authentic, handcrafted, and deeply rooted in the land.

Why Armagnac Deserves a Place in Your Collection

If you’re a fan of fine spirits and haven’t yet explored Armagnac, you’re in for a treat. With its rich history, artisanal production, and bold, complex flavors, Armagnac offers a distinctive alternative to Cognac and other brandies. Whether you’re sipping it neat after a meal, mixing it into a classic cocktail, or pairing it with hearty French cuisine, Armagnac is a spirit that rewards those willing to discover its charms.

As more people discover the joys of Armagnac, it’s clear that this centuries-old spirit is no longer just France’s best-kept secret—it’s becoming a must-try for anyone who appreciates fine, handcrafted spirits.

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The Norwegian Cognac Houses in France

by Ginny Day November 17, 2024

Cognac is a spirit most closely associated with the vineyards of southwestern France, where it’s been crafted for centuries. Yet, there’s a fascinating chapter of Cognac history that ties the world-famous spirit to a country far to the north—Norway. While Norway is best known for its fjords and aquavit, it has a unique connection to Cognac through four major Cognac houses in France, owned and operated by Norwegian families who have made a significant impact on the industry: Bache-Gabrielsen, Braastad, Larsen, and Birkedal-Hartmann.

These houses have long played an important role in producing high-quality Cognacs, with a particular emphasis on exporting to Scandinavian markets. Let’s take a closer look at how these Norwegian houses have blended Nordic business savvy with French Cognac-making traditions.

How Norwegian Families Came to Dominate Their Own Cognac Houses

The relationship between Norway and Cognac began in the 19th century, as trade between northern Europe and France flourished. Cognac became increasingly popular in Scandinavia, thanks in part to the strong shipping and trading routes established by Norway’s merchant fleets. As Norwegian businessmen saw the potential in importing high-quality spirits from France, some chose to invest directly in the industry, acquiring and founding Cognac houses in France.

Over time, Norwegian-owned Cognac houses became deeply ingrained in the Cognac landscape, with their products becoming staples both in Norway and across the world. Today, four key houses—Bache-Gabrielsen, Braastad, Larsen, and Birkedal-Hartmann—remain the best-known Norwegian Cognac brands, each with its own unique story and approach to Cognac production.

Bache-Gabrielsen: Norwegian Roots, French Soul

Founded: 1905

Signature Cognacs: Bache-Gabrielsen VS, VSOP, XO, Natur & Eleganse, Aquavit Cask Finish

One of the most well-known and successful Norwegian Cognac houses is Bache-Gabrielsen, founded in 1905 by Thomas Bache-Gabrielsen, a young Norwegian lieutenant who settled in Cognac, France. Partnering with fellow Norwegian Peter Rustad, they purchased a small Cognac house and began producing under the Bache-Gabrielsen name.

Today, the house is still family-owned, with Thomas’s descendants running the business. Hervé Bache-Gabrielsen, the fourth generation, continues to oversee production, ensuring the house’s continued success. Bache-Gabrielsen is particularly known for its innovative approach to Cognac-making, combining traditional methods with more modern influences. For instance, their Aquavit Cask Finish Cognac pays homage to their Norwegian roots by finishing the Cognac in barrels that once held aquavit.

Bache-Gabrielsen enjoys a strong following in Scandinavia, especially in Norway, where it is one of the most popular Cognac brands. Its range includes everything from classic VS, VSOP, and XO Cognacs to more modern, experimental releases, such as the Natur & Eleganse line, which is made without added caramel coloring.

Braastad: Tradition and Quality from the Tiffon Estate

Founded: 1913

Signature Cognacs: Braastad VS, VSOP, XO, Braastad Napoleon, Braastad Extra

Braastad Cognac is closely linked to the historic Tiffon Cognac house, which was founded in 1875. The connection to Norway began in 1913 when Sverre Braastad, a Norwegian, married into the Tiffon family and took over management of the estate. Since then, the house has been known as Braastad in Scandinavian markets, while still maintaining its original Tiffon branding in other parts of the world.

Located in Jarnac, in the heart of the Cognac region, Braastad has developed a reputation for producing traditional, high-quality Cognacs with a rich and complex character. The house remains a family-run operation, with the Braastad family continuing to oversee the blending and aging of the Cognac.

Braastad offers a full range of Cognacs, from accessible VS and VSOP expressions to its more premium Napoleon and XO offerings. These Cognacs are known for their balance, with rich fruit notes, smooth textures, and well-integrated oak flavors. Braastad is particularly well-loved in Norway and other Scandinavian countries, where its classic approach to Cognac production resonates with drinkers who appreciate quality and tradition.

Larsen: The Cognac of the Vikings

Founded: 1926

Signature Cognacs: Larsen VS, VSOP, XO, Viking Ship Editions

Larsen Cognac is one of the most distinctive Norwegian-owned houses, founded by Jens Reidar Larsen in 1926. Originally from Norway, Larsen moved to France and fell in love with Cognac, eventually starting his own house in the region. His vision was to create a fruitier, more delicate style of Cognac, one that would appeal to the Scandinavian palate.

Larsen’s Cognacs are often described as aromatic and elegant, with a focus on fresh fruit flavors. The house is perhaps best known for its Viking Ship bottles, which have become iconic among collectors. These bottles, shaped like traditional Viking ships, symbolize the strong connection between Larsen’s Norwegian heritage and its French craftsmanship.

While Larsen is popular in Norway and other parts of Scandinavia, it has also gained a global following, particularly for its VS and VSOP expressions, which are known for their bright, floral aromas and smooth finishes. The house’s XO Cognac, aged for a longer period, offers a richer, more complex experience, with notes of dried fruit, spices, and oak.

Birkedal-Hartmann: A Modern Innovator

Founded: 1887

Signature Cognacs: Birkedal-Hartmann VSOP, XO, Symposium

Birkedal-Hartmann is one of the oldest Norwegian Cognac houses, founded in 1887 by Halfdan Birkedal-Hartmann, a Norwegian who moved to France and established his own brand. Over the years, the house has developed a reputation for producing high-quality, well-crafted Cognacs that appeal to both traditional Cognac drinkers and those looking for something more contemporary.

Birkedal-Hartmann is known for its commitment to innovation, often blending tradition with new ideas. One of its most notable achievements is the creation of Symposium, a premium Cognac range that has received praise for its refined and balanced flavor profile. The house focuses heavily on creating smooth, approachable Cognacs that offer a rich sensory experience without overwhelming the palate.

Birkedal-Hartmann has a strong presence in the Scandinavian market, but its reach extends globally, with its Cognacs available in several countries. The house continues to emphasize the importance of quality and consistency, ensuring that every bottle reflects the legacy of craftsmanship established by its Norwegian founder.

Norway’s Lasting Legacy in Cognac

The story of Norwegian Cognac houses is a fascinating example of how cross-cultural influences can enrich a traditional industry. Through their passion for the spirit and their business acumen, Norwegian families have made their mark on the Cognac world, blending French craftsmanship with Scandinavian heritage.

Bache-Gabrielsen, Braastad, Larsen, and Birkedal-Hartmann each offer something unique, whether it’s Bache-Gabrielsen’s innovative approach, Braastad’s deep roots in traditional Cognac-making, Larsen’s Viking-inspired style, or Birkedal-Hartmann’s modern flair. Together, these houses have helped to shape the global Cognac market, ensuring that Norwegian influence continues to be felt in the world of fine spirits.

For those looking to explore Cognac with a touch of Nordic history, these houses offer a rich journey into the world of premium spirits. Whether enjoyed neat, in a cocktail, or as a special occasion drink, Norwegian Cognac houses remain an important part of the industry’s legacy and future.

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The Big Four Cognac Houses

by Ginny Day November 17, 2024

When it comes to Cognac, four houses dominate the landscape: Hennessy, Martell, Rémy Martin, and Courvoisier. These iconic producers represent centuries of craftsmanship and have become synonymous with luxury, quality, and tradition. Whether you’re new to Cognac or a seasoned aficionado, these four houses are essential names to know.

1. Hennessy: The King of Cognac

Founded: 1765

Signature Cognacs: Hennessy VS, VSOP, XO, Paradis, Richard Hennessy

Hennessy is, without a doubt, the largest and most recognized Cognac house in the world. It produces nearly half of all Cognac sold globally, and its influence on the industry is unparalleled. Founded by Richard Hennessy, an Irishman who settled in France, the house started as a small business but quickly expanded due to its high-quality Cognac and strategic relationships.

In the early 19th century, Hennessy’s partnership with the Martell family and the financial firm Moët & Chandon laid the groundwork for what would eventually become the luxury powerhouse LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy), which still owns Hennessy today.

What makes Hennessy special: One key to Hennessy’s success is its ability to blend tradition with innovation. While respecting the craftsmanship and aging methods developed over centuries, Hennessy has also embraced modern marketing and collaborations, making its Cognac appealing to a new generation of drinkers. The range from VS (Very Special) to its ultra-premium offerings, such as Richard Hennessy, showcases the house’s ability to cater to a broad spectrum of tastes.

Hennessy XO, created in 1870 by Maurice Hennessy, is often regarded as the first “Extra Old” Cognac, and it remains one of the most popular expressions in the world.

2. Martell: The Oldest of the Big Four

Founded: 1715

Signature Cognacs: Martell VS, VSOP, Cordon Bleu, Martell XO, L’Or de Jean Martell

Martell holds the distinction of being the oldest of the major Cognac houses, founded by Jean Martell, a Jersey native who moved to France to start his business. Over the years, Martell has established itself as a key player in the industry, producing elegant, well-balanced Cognacs that emphasize finesse and smoothness.

Martell is known for its use of Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard grapes, and it focuses heavily on Cognacs from the Borderies sub-region, which imparts floral and nutty characteristics. Martell’s dedication to aging its spirits in Tronçais oak barrels—which have a fine grain and impart more subtle oak flavors—further distinguishes its style.

What makes Martell special: Martell’s iconic Cordon Bleu expression, created in 1912, is perhaps its most famous offering and a favorite among Cognac connoisseurs. Cordon Bleu is known for its deep complexity and harmonious flavor profile, with rich notes of fruit, spices, and honey. The house’s emphasis on smoothness and elegance makes its Cognacs versatile, whether enjoyed neat or as a base for high-end cocktails.

In recent years, Martell has innovated with expressions like Martell Blue Swift, a Cognac finished in bourbon barrels, further expanding its appeal to a global audience.

3. Rémy Martin: The Champion of Fine Champagne Cognac

Founded: 1724

Signature Cognacs: Rémy Martin VSOP, XO, 1738 Accord Royal, Louis XIII

Rémy Martin is distinguished by its focus on Fine Champagne Cognac—a designation meaning its Cognac is exclusively made from grapes grown in the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne regions. These are considered the finest terroirs in Cognac. Founded by Rémy Martin, a winemaker in the early 18th century, the house has grown into one of the most prestigious names in the industry, known for producing Cognacs that balance power with finesse.

The company’s philosophy has always been about creating Cognacs with depth and complexity, thanks to the exceptional chalky soil in its vineyards, which allows grapes to mature slowly and develop rich aromatic profiles. The house is perhaps best known for Louis XIII, an extraordinary Cognac aged for 40 to 100 years, presented in crystal decanters. Louis XIII is considered one of the pinnacle achievements in Cognac making, representing the height of luxury.

What makes Rémy Martin special: Rémy Martin stands out for its dedication to Fine Champagne Cognac, a distinction that gives its spirits a rich, layered depth. Its VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) is one of the most well-loved VSOP Cognacs in the world, known for its balanced profile of fruit, vanilla, and oak. Rémy Martin XO is similarly revered, offering a refined experience with notes of figs, honey, and spices.

Rémy Martin also pioneered sustainable practices in Cognac production, ensuring that their vineyards are certified under the High Environmental Value (HVE) certification, reflecting a commitment to environmental responsibility.

I see! Thanks for clarifying. Let’s pick up from where we left off and finish the original blog post about the four Cognac houses, continuing with Courvoisier in the same style:

Courvoisier: Napoleon’s Cognac of Choice

Founded: 1828

Signature Cognacs: Courvoisier VS, VSOP, XO, Napoleon, Initiale Extra

Courvoisier holds a special place in Cognac history, often referred to as “Napoleon’s Cognac.” According to legend, when Napoleon Bonaparte was exiled to the island of Saint Helena, he chose Courvoisier as his spirit of choice, bringing several barrels with him. Whether fact or fiction, this association helped elevate Courvoisier’s reputation, linking it with prestige and a sense of imperial grandeur.

Courvoisier was founded by Emmanuel Courvoisier in 1828, and like the other major houses, it has maintained a reputation for quality, blending tradition with innovation. What sets Courvoisier apart is its focus on a balanced and approachable style, making it a favorite for those who appreciate a smooth, well-rounded Cognac.

The house places a strong emphasis on blending, using a mix of young and older eaux-de-vie to create Cognacs that are both accessible and complex. Their VSOP and XO expressions, in particular, are known for striking a balance between fruit-forward notes and deeper layers of spice, vanilla, and oak. The XO is often praised for its velvety texture and rich, long finish, making it a luxurious yet approachable option for Cognac lovers.

What makes Courvoisier special: Beyond its connection to Napoleon, Courvoisier is one of the few Cognac houses that manages every step of production, from vineyard to bottle. This vertical integration ensures a high level of quality control and consistency across its entire range. Courvoisier is also known for its use of fine-grain oak barrels, which impart delicate, subtle flavors to the spirit without overwhelming the natural fruitiness of the eaux-de-vie.

One of Courvoisier’s standout expressions is the Courvoisier Napoleon, a blend that exemplifies the house’s smooth, elegant style, with rich notes of dried fruit, caramel, and nuts. Whether enjoyed neat or as a digestif after a meal, Courvoisier’s Cognacs are designed to be both refined and approachable, appealing to a wide audience of drinkers.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

The four major Cognac houses—Hennessy, Martell, Rémy Martin, and Courvoisier—represent the pinnacle of Cognac production, each with its own distinct heritage and style. Together, they account for the vast majority of the world’s Cognac sales, and their influence can be seen in both the classic and contemporary worlds of luxury spirits.

• Hennessy leads the way with its global reach, balancing tradition and innovation to remain the largest Cognac producer in the world.

• Martell honors its status as the oldest of the Cognac houses, producing elegant, smooth spirits while embracing modern trends and sustainability.

• Rémy Martin focuses on Fine Champagne Cognac, producing deep, complex spirits with a commitment to environmental stewardship.

• Courvoisier blends history with approachability, offering refined Cognacs that are known for their smoothness and balance.

Together, these four houses have defined and elevated Cognac to the status it holds today. Whether you’re sipping a bold XO, mixing a classic VSOP cocktail, or exploring the world of ultra-premium Cognacs, the craftsmanship and dedication of these producers ensure there’s always something new to discover in the glass.

If you’re just starting your journey into the world of Cognac, these four houses offer the perfect foundation, with centuries of experience and excellence behind each bottle.