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Leading Cognac houses Hennessy and Remy Martin sit at the heart of the range. You'll also find French brandies from St Remy, De Valcourt and Chatelle, which offer a similar style for mixing.

Types of Cognac

  • VS: the youngest grade, fresh and fruity, a natural choice for cocktails.
  • VSOP: aged longer for more vanilla, spice and roundness.
  • Napoleon: richer, older blends sitting above VSOP.
  • XO: long-aged Cognac with dried fruit, leather and deep oak notes.

For another French style, see Armagnac.

How to Choose Cognac

For mixing with dry ginger or in a Sidecar, a VS such as Hennessy VS is lively. Remy Martin VSOP is smooth enough to sip neat, while Remy Martin 1738 adds extra richness and makes a generous gift.

Cognac FAQs

Where is Cognac made?

Cognac is made only in a defined area around the town of Cognac in south-west France, mostly in the Charente and Charente-Maritime departments. The region is split into growing areas called crus, with Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne the most prized.

What grapes are used to make Cognac?

Cognac is made mainly from Ugni Blanc, a high-acid white grape known in Italy as Trebbiano. It gives a light, acidic wine that distils well. Folle Blanche and Colombard are also permitted in small amounts.

What does Fine Champagne mean on Cognac?

Fine Champagne means the Cognac is a blend of grapes from the Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus only, with at least half from Grande Champagne. Remy Martin is a well-known Fine Champagne house.

Is St Remy a Cognac?

No, St Remy is a French brandy rather than a Cognac. It is made from grapes grown across several French regions, so it cannot use the Cognac name. It offers a similar smooth, fruity style that suits mixing.