10 Best Cognac Under $50: Listed & Reviewed! (2024 Best Edition)

Choosing the best inexpensive cognac depends on personal taste preferences and budget constraints. However, some cognac brands offer quality options at affordable prices.

Brands like Courvoisier, Rémy Martin, and Martell often offer entry-level cognacs that provide a good balance of flavor and affordability.

These cognacs typically come from the VS (Very Special) or VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) categories, which denote the age and quality of the blend.

While they may not offer the complexity and depth of higher-priced cognacs, these entry-level options can still provide a satisfying drinking experience without breaking the bank.

The “best” grade of cognac ultimately depends on individual preferences and the desired drinking experience. Cognac is typically classified into several grades based on aging and quality:

VS (Very Special): Cognacs in this category are aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels. They offer youthful, vibrant flavors and are often used in cocktails or mixed drinks.

VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): VSOP cognacs are aged for a minimum of four years, with some blends containing older eaux-de-vie. They exhibit more complexity and depth compared to VS cognacs, with richer flavors and smoother textures.

XO (Extra Old): XO cognacs are aged for a minimum of six years, although many XO blends contain much older eaux-de-vie. XO cognacs are known for their exceptional quality, complexity, and depth of flavor, with notes of dried fruit, spices, and oak.

While XO cognacs are often considered the pinnacle of quality due to their extended aging and premium blends, the “best” grade of cognac ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget considerations. Some enthusiasts may prefer the vibrant and lively character of VS cognacs, while others may prefer the richness and complexity of XO blends.

The title of “number 1” cognac can be subjective and may vary depending on factors such as brand reputation, quality, and personal preference. Several cognac houses are renowned for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship, including Hennessy, Rémy Martin, Martell, and Courvoisier.

These brands offer a range of cognacs across different grades, from VS to XO, catering to a diverse array of tastes and preferences.

Ultimately, the “number 1” cognac is the one that best suits an individual’s palate and drinking preferences. Enthusiasts may explore different cognac brands and expressions to find the one that resonates most with them.

The term “top shelf” cognac typically refers to premium or luxury cognac brands that offer the highest quality and most exclusive blends. These cognacs are often aged for extended periods, utilizing the finest eaux-de-vie and crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Some of the most renowned top shelf cognac brands include Louis XIII by Rémy Martin, Richard Hennessy by Hennessy, Paradis by Martell, and L’Essence de Courvoisier by Courvoisier.

These cognacs are prized for their exceptional complexity, depth of flavor, and rareness, making them coveted by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide. They often command premium prices due to their prestigious reputation and limited availability.

The quality of cognac is not solely determined by its age designation (e.g., VS or VSOP) but rather by factors such as blending techniques, aging process, and quality of the eaux-de-vie used. However, in general, VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) cognacs are considered to be of higher quality and offer more complexity than VS (Very Special) cognacs.

VS cognacs are aged for a minimum of two years, while VSOP cognacs are aged for a minimum of four years, allowing for more time for the flavors to develop and meld together.

VSOP cognacs typically exhibit richer and smoother flavors, with more pronounced notes of fruit, oak, and spice compared to their younger counterparts. They are often preferred for sipping neat or in cocktails where the nuances of the cognac can be appreciated.

However, some VS cognacs can still offer enjoyable drinking experiences, particularly in mixed drinks or cocktails where their youthful character can complement other ingredients.

Cognac and brandy are both types of distilled spirits made from grapes, but they differ in terms of origin, production methods, and flavor profiles. Cognac is a specific type of brandy that must be produced in the Cognac region of France and adhere to strict regulations regarding grape varieties, distillation techniques, and aging.

Brandies, on the other hand, can be produced in various regions around the world using different grapes and production methods.

Whether cognac is “better” than brandy is subjective and depends on personal taste preferences. Cognac is often prized for its refined and complex flavor profile, with notes of fruit, spice, and oak derived from the aging process in oak barrels.

It is typically associated with luxury and sophistication and is enjoyed as a sipping spirit or in cocktails.

Brandies, on the other hand, can offer a wide range of flavors and styles, from light and fruity to rich and robust, depending on their origin and production methods. Ultimately, the choice between cognac and brandy comes down to individual preferences and the desired drinking experience.

Assessing the quality of cognac involves considering various factors:
Aroma: Good cognac should have a complex and inviting aroma, with distinct notes of fruit, floral, spice, and oak. The aroma should be well-balanced and harmonious, without any off-putting or unpleasant odors.

Taste: When tasting cognac, pay attention to its flavor profile. Quality cognac will offer a depth of flavor, with layers of complexity that evolve on the palate. Look for flavors of dried fruit, vanilla, caramel, nuts, and spices, along with a smooth and lingering finish.

Color: While not always indicative of quality, the color of cognac can provide clues about its age and potential richness. Older cognacs tend to have deeper and more intense colors due to prolonged aging in oak barrels. However, artificial coloring may also be used, so color alone should not be relied upon as a sole indicator of quality.

Age Designation: Cognac age designations, such as VS (Very Special), VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale), and XO (Extra Old), indicate the minimum aging period of the youngest eaux-de-vie used in the blend. Generally, older cognacs are associated with higher quality and more complex flavors due to extended aging.

Brand Reputation: Established cognac houses with a long history of craftsmanship and expertise, such as Hennessy, Rémy Martin, Martell, and Courvoisier, are often associated with high-quality cognacs. Reputation and pedigree can provide reassurance of a cognac’s quality.

The choice between VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) and XO (Extra Old) cognac depends on personal preference and the desired drinking experience:

VSOP Cognac: VSOP cognacs are aged for a minimum of four years, offering a smooth and refined drinking experience. They typically exhibit richer flavors and aromas compared to younger cognacs, with greater complexity and depth.

XO Cognac: XO cognacs are aged for a minimum of six years, with many blends containing much older eaux-de-vie. XO cognacs are known for their exceptional quality, complexity, and depth of flavor, offering a luxurious and indulgent drinking experience.

Both VSOP and XO cognacs have their merits, and the choice ultimately comes down to individual taste preferences and budget considerations.

Cognac can be enjoyed in various ways, depending on personal preference:
Neat: Many connoisseurs prefer to savor cognac neat, allowing its complex flavors and aromas to be fully appreciated. Serve cognac in a tulip-shaped glass to concentrate its aromas and swirl gently before sipping to release its bouquet.

On the Rocks: Some drinkers enjoy cognac over ice, which can slightly dilute the spirit and mellow its intensity. Use large ice cubes or spheres to minimize dilution and preserve the flavor.

With Water: Adding a few drops of water to cognac can help open up its aromas and flavors, particularly for high-proof or older expressions. Experiment with the amount of water to find the balance that suits your taste.

In Cocktails: Cognac can also be used as a base spirit in cocktails, adding depth and complexity to classic drinks like the Sidecar, Sazerac, and French Connection. Choose a VS or VSOP cognac for cocktails to balance its flavors with other ingredients.

Ultimately, the best way to drink cognac is the way you enjoy it most. Experiment with different serving methods to find your preferred style and savor the rich and complex flavors of this esteemed spirit.

Martell is widely regarded as one of the leading cognac houses, with a reputation for producing high-quality and well-crafted cognacs. Founded in 1715, Martell has a long history of expertise and innovation in the cognac industry.

The House of Martell offers a range of cognacs across different age categories, from VS (Very Special) to XO (Extra Old), each showcasing the brand’s commitment to quality and tradition.

Martell cognacs are known for their smoothness, complexity, and balance of flavors, making them a favorite among cognac enthusiasts worldwide.

Rémy Martin is another esteemed cognac house known for its exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Established in 1724, Rémy Martin has a rich heritage of producing fine cognacs that embody the essence of luxury and elegance.

The House of Rémy Martin is renowned for its XO blends, including Rémy Martin XO and Rémy Martin XO Excellence, which offer rich and complex flavor profiles with notes of fruit, spice, and oak.

Rémy Martin cognacs consistently receive high praise from critics and connoisseurs alike, solidifying the brand’s reputation as one of the finest producers of cognac in the world.