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Last Updated on December 29, 2022 by Lydia Martin
Nyak is a newly-introduced cognac brand by a sixth-generation distilling family. So Smooth – as this bottle suggests, Nyak Cognac is established as a smoother cognac that might appeal to more than just a simple brandy.
If this cognac interests you, know more about this spirit through our in-depth Nyak cognac review. Let’s start!
What is Nyak Cognac?
Originated from France, Nyak cognacs are distilled using a carefully selected Eaux de vie, according to their age-old process. Matured in French oak barrels of different toast levels, Nyak cognacs are uniquely rich and smooth.
These spirits’ blend features a bouquet of soft rounded wood notes, hints of grape, fruity flavors and spices, and a rich and complex mouth. Its long smooth finish is complemented by creamy honey and almonds.
Interesting Facts
How It’s Made?
The first chauffe-distill takes place in a 10,000-liter copper pot still. The resulting juice, referred to as brouillis, then undergoes distillation using 2,500 liters of copper pot stills after three years aging process.
The heads are then set aside for the wine’s first distillation. The tails are cut to 60% alcohol. Their goal is to make the bonne chauffe with less fat and more flavor.
Base Materials
The grape wine used for Nyak is made from grapes grown on the House’s properties and those grown by its partner growers, just like other wines from France. Some of these include the wines from the Petite Champagne region of France.
Then, Nyak uses copper pot stills and French oak casks before bottling in the aging process.
Distillery & Owner
From France, Nyak cognacs are introduced in many U.S. states. The people behind this brand include Patrick Charpentier, a former V.P. of Remy Cointreau, Dennis Mckinley, Detroit Equities CEO, and former EVP of Seagrams Spirits and Wines Jerome Hyafil. They have collaborated to introduce this new spirit.
Also, Nyak has recently collaborated with the prominent rapper Young M.A. This spirit is crafted at a sixth-generation family-owned distillery, with its aging cellars and distillery overlooking the Lary River.
Availability & Smoothness
Nyak has a peppery smoothness that everyone will surely adore. This spirit is a snap to cocktails. What’s more interesting is it is not only available in France but most U.S. states as well, including:
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Tasting Notes
Palate
The oaky theme continues to the mouth with gritty and dusty hints. But, it features more vanilla red berry notes and milk chocolate mint in the blend.
Aroma
On the nose, expect a sniff laden with oak plus a powerful rum raisin note, crushed toffee, ample fruit, strawberry, and incense. The fragrance is relaxing on the nose.
Hue/Color
Its crisp and lively spirit features a copper-colored theme that suits well with its elegant bottle. But, the limited-edition cognac VSOP features a superior pale copper color.
Finish
The finish is flowery with some wood influence and overtly jammy attributes. Besides, you’ll love its incense-like fragrance that lingers on the throat.
Price & Alcohol Proof
Price may vary depending on the liquor store. But usually, Nyak cognacs range from $30 to $60 or more.
Aside from the price, you’re probably considering it’s alcohol proof [1] or alcohol by volume (ABV). Nyak cognacs have 40% ABV or 80 proof, which is usually the standard of cognacs in the market.
Common Nyak Cognac Prices
| Type | Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
| Nyak VS Cognac | 750ml | 80 proof | Around $34.99 |
| Nyak Cognac VSOP | 750ml | 80 proof | Around $59 |
Compared to Other Cognacs
Hine
If you’re looking for an aesthetic or vintage style, then Hine is more of that character than Nyak. However, Nyak is more affordable than Hine ($50 to $10,000 or more). So, we can say that Nyak has the quality of good cognacs with a lower price point than other brands like Hine.
Remy Martin
Nyak is one of the leading competitors of Remy Martin when it comes to cognacs, particularly the Nyak VS cognac. But, Remy Martin is a little more expensive ($40 to $100 or more) than Nyak Cognacs.
So, if you’re looking for a straightforward yet savory spirit that can satisfy your alcohol palate without breaking your bank, then Nyak cognacs got your back!
Davidoff
Davidoff cognacs are young and bold with a modern theme that’s more on sweetness and silky flair. In contrast, Nyak cognacs are more of a woody influence and fruit notes. Nyak tastes better than Davidoff on cocktails like Brandy Alexander and Mint Julep.
But, when it comes to the price point, Nyak and Davidoff have a closer price point, ranging from $30 to $100.
Read:
Popular “Nyaktail” Recipes
Aphrodisi-Yak
Prep Time: 3 minutes
Total Time: 3 minutes
Ingredients:
- Sour mix
- Ice
- 5 oz. Cointreau
- 2 oz. Nyak VS cognac
- 1 oz pineapple juice
Instructions:
Strain the liquids into a caramel-drizzled raisins Martini glass. Garnish it with a cherry or pineapple wedge.
Serving: 1
Nyak Mule
Prep Time: 2 minutes
Total Time: 2 minutes
Ingredients:
- 3 oz. of Gin Three beer
- 2 oz. of Nyak VS
- ½ oz. of fresh lime juice
- Orange wedge and mint (optional)
Instructions:
Mix all the liquid ingredients into your glass. Then, garnish it with an orange wedge or mint.
Serving: 1
FAQs
How do you pronounce Nyak cognac?
Nyak cognac is correctly pronounced as “Nigh-yack Kown-yak,” according to its French pronunciation as it originated from France.
Is Nyak black-owned?
Yes. Nyak is a black-owned brand that announced expansion nationwide after partnering with famed rapper Young M.A.
Key Takeaways
Nyak is crafted with African Americans in mind. This recently introduced cognac spirit has been taking the alcohol world by storm. Despite its limited variants, the Nyak VS cognac and VSOP (aka Three Star), it already levels with the established cognacs brand in the industry.
As one of the cocktail-friendly spirits, Nyak makes great classic cognac cocktails. Everyone will like its style and palate with its dried tropical fruit notes, honey, and vanilla flavors. Similarly, you can never go wrong with this one, given its affordable price point plus its availability in many U.S. states.
Reference:
- https://www.britannica.com/story/why-is-alcohol-measured-by-proof
Lisa is a freelance lifestyle writer specializing in nightlife, leisure, and celebration. She has been in the field for eight years and has written articles featured in various local blogs and lifestyle magazines.
For Lisa, there’s nothing better than an ice-cold drink after a rough day (she’s not fussy). But she also likes to get a bit fancy every now and then. She believes you can never go wrong with a Moscow Mule or a classic Daiquiri anywhere you go. Contact at [email protected] or learn more about us here.
