27 Best Cognacs That Define Excellence For Indulgence In 2023
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Cognac is a type of brandy made from grapes grown in the Cognac region of France. One brandy snifter of this smooth and rich liquor is ideal for sipping before or after dinner or alongside savory or sweet treats or your favorite cigar.
There are many fantastic bottles of Cognac. If you want to know which ones are the greatest, here are the 27 best Cognacs to indulge in. From smooth and mellow to rich and complex, we’ll take you on tour to some of the most exquisite brandies in the world!
Our Top Picks
 
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Best Overall - Tesseron Lot 53 Perfection XO Cognac• Opulent and balanced flavor profile |
Best Aromas - Hennessy Paradis Cognac• Unique and mesmerizing hue |
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Most Versatile - Remy Martin XO• Complex and well-rounded from blending |
1. Hine Antique XO Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Jarnac, France
Tasting Notes: Floral notes of Iris and Lilac with elegant cedar wood tones
Hine Antique XO Cognac has been expertly blended with eau-de-vie from Grande Champagne. This modern liquor is already a spin-off of the original 1920 recipe, made specially by the one and only Hine. The Cognac house then made new developments to the recipe in 2010.
The sweet vanilla and ripe green fruit aromas are immediately apparent when this bottle is opened. A few seconds later, you'll notice some delicate earthy tones that emphasize the sweetness and fruitiness of the blend.
It is described as a warmed-up version of an exotic Cognac with sweet and spicy notes.
2. Jean Fillioux La Pouyade Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Floral, mouth-watering citrus, and almond notes
The Jean Fillioux La Pouyade Cognac is the ideal embodiment of all Cognacs from the Grande Champagne cru. This could be the perfect alternative for Scotch drinkers because of its unique complexity.
Furthermore, the perfect description for this drink would be "a breath of fresh air," with its floral notes, specifically spring flowers. The lively fruity aromas are also enough to make your mouth water for more!
A neat and classic style inspires the fancy bottle without dramatic patterns. Plus, the Jean Fillioux brand always sticks to the quality of its bottles rather than prioritizing flashy appearances.
3. Courvoisier VSOP Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Charente, France
Tasting Notes: Almond notes with cinnamon and raisins; dry woody finish
Courvoisier VSOP Cognac has always been well-known and a loved classic. Considering it's from Courvoisier, one of the Big Four Cognac houses, it's not surprising that this blend has a spot on the podium.
The bottle gives off a dark amber color with reddish undertones. However, if you pour the drink into a glass, the color becomes more copper-like.
The well-balanced complexity of this blend can be attributed to the Grande, Petite Champagne, and the Fins Bois. Plus, this Cognac has spent 8 to 12 years aging. The toasted almonds, stone fruits, baking spice flavors, and toffee are apparent in their dry finish that lingers long enough to enjoy it.
4. Bisquit & Dubouché Cognac VSOP
ABV: 40%
Region: Petite & Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Rose, cinnamon, peach, and other spice notes
The unique characteristics you'll observe in this blend mostly come from the high-quality Eaux-de-vie sourced from the excellent terroirs of Petite and Grande Champagne. This Cognac beautifully presents its eye-catching, warm amber color in its sleek bottle, distinguishing itself from the VS with its spicy notes.
One whiff of this best Cognac will take you into a world full of decadent aromas such as ripe fruits, honey, and sweet spice. The palate starts with flavors of orange honeysuckle then moves into notes upon notes relating to mango or even grapefruit.
5. Pierre Ferrand 1840 Original Formula
ABV: 45%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Tree fruits, spice notes of vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg
Pierre Ferrand wanted to bring back their Pierre Ferrand Classic 3 Star Cognac, but they had new ideas that they wanted to incorporate. They came up with the Pierre Ferrand 1840 Original Formula, and the latest innovations melded with the old one beautifully.
This classy and luxurious Cognac presents tempting notes of ripe and juicy grapes on the nose. Next would be soft tones of meadow flowers followed by acacia tree blossom and cedar. The experience would end in spicy honey notes. Over 130 of experience is evident in this Cognac's sophistication and richness.
6. Cognac Park Borderies Mizunara Cask Cognac
ABV: 43.5%
Region: Borderies, France
Tasting Notes: Flavorful spicy notes with a pleasant creaminess
The extra work put into this Cognac to attain its prestigious status is evident with each sip. This delicious blend went through a four-year aging process in fine oak barrels. Then, it is transferred to Mizunara oak casks, where it is aged for a good six months. The second aging in Mizunara is definitely one factor that makes this Cognac distinctive.
Mizunara oak was only used for whiskey before. So, one of the reasons why this bottle is famous is that it is considered an original since it's actually known as the first Cognac blend to be aged in Mizunara Oak. The result is a palatable Cognac that showcases vanilla, honey, and stewed fruit.
7. Ferrand 10 Générations Grande Champagne Cognac
ABV: 46%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Honey, caramel, and butterscotch, with bright citrus notes
Ferrand 10 Générations pays homage to 10 generations worth of knowledge and innovation. Determination and idealism in producing Cognac are represented in this very bottle. It has such unique flavors, but it also comes in a very apt and intricate bottle.
As the name suggests, every Cognac master from the cognac house has contributed something from their individual expertise to improve the vines and distillation process. Ten whole generations are reflected in this history-rich fruit-forward Cognac with palatable notes of baked pear, pineapples, muscat grapes, etc.
8. Hardy VSOP Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande and Petite Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Luscious, fresh pear with cinnamon and oak notes
The Hardy master blenders make this liquor with one thing in mind—upholding the Hardy signature. One thing that makes this brand even better is that they always price their bottle affordably, which is their way of connecting to more consumers.
This Cognac has an exquisite aroma that focuses on concentrated vanilla and oak melded beautifully with undertones of allspice. On the palate, one can discern rich and opulent notes such as vanilla, mocha, and sweet spice. And the lengthy finish features clove, black pepper, and oak.
9. Martell XO
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Dark fruits like blackcurrants and figs with floral aromas
Most of the eaux-de-vie used in the blending of this delicious spirit are from the Grande cru. With this, the cru's distinctive characteristics are mirrored in the Cognac - structured and bold. These combine perfectly with the characteristics of Borderies too.
This golden amber drink has aromas of ground spice such as coriander and black pepper. Later on, these would melt into a more fruity aroma, mostly red berries. On the palate, there is fig and walnut. Overall, it exhibits roundness, finesse, and strength.
10. Jean-Luc Pasquet L’Organic 10
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Ripe apples and pear with ginger and tobacco notes
Jean-Luc Pasquet’s L'Organic 10 is the Cognac you need if you're leaning towards organic products. This drink is a sweet yet elegant Cognac that was created with the goal of not only power but also finesse.
The ingenuity of Jean-Luc Pasquet is truly showcased in his work, especially the Jean-Luc Pasquet L’Organic 10. He created this blend with two things in mind: structure and balance.
Jean-Luc Pasquet has been a leader in the organic cognac production industry for a significant amount of time. This Cognac is full of inviting aromas that capture and meld the unique aromas of vanilla, fig, and cinnamon. These would then transition to raisins and dried flowers.
11. Bache-Gabrielsen Tre Kors VS Fine Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande and Petite Champagne, and Fins Bois, Champagne
Tasting Notes: Fruity and round flavors
The one and only Bache-Gabrielsen Tre Kors VS Fine Cognac is a flavorful blend of Eaux-de-vie from the crus of Grande Champagne/Petite Champagne and Fins Bois, with the latter having the larger percentage. It is made following a two-year maturation process inside small oak casks.
The nose has many elements typically seen in a young Cognac. It's astringent and toasty. On the nose, you recognize lumber notes mixed with tropical fruit. On the palate, it's sweet and complex flavors of caramel, apple, and ripe banana.
12. Courvoisier XO Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Charente, France
Tasting Notes: Rich brown sugar and cacao with leathery notes
Courvoisier Extra Old Cognac pulls no punches when it comes to quality. The Eaux-de-vie, sourced from high-quality terroirs and used in this blend, really makes up for the complexity of its structure. The result is a round and rich spirit that has multiple layers.
The first sip of this Courvoisier Cognac is like taking a walk through the most beautiful botanical garden as fresh violets and strawberry notes are evident with a bit of oak on the side. The nose yields aromas of toasted brown sugar, cacao nibs, and fruits, as well.
13. H by HINE
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Apricots with caramel, marzipan, and vanilla
Hine has been one of the Cognac brands at the forefront of fine Cognac production for centuries, and they took their expertise to new heights when they released their very own H by HINE.
This blend comprises more than 15 various Eaux-de-vie that are exclusive products of Grande and Petite Champagne. Moreover, each of the Eaux-de-vie is aged for at least four years.
This features deeply luscious notes similar to apricot brandy, combined with floral bouquets and spicy zest. Furthermore, H by HINE is the perfect blend of taste and liveliness to enjoy in cocktails. Its fans enjoy drinking this Cognac with the best tonic water or ginger beer.
14. Reviseur V.S.O.P Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Petite Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Tropical fruits mixed with leathery and wood notes
Perhaps the first thing that captures people's hearts with this bottle is its bold amber red color against the black-colored label! This single-estate Cognac sources its delicious eaux-de-vie from the high-quality terroirs of Petite Champagne.
The notes on the nose are reminiscent of corn cobs and caramel, which gradually shift to delicate notes such as butter, almonds, honey, cocoa powder, brown sugar, and finally, chocolate.
Because of the multiple notes present in this Cognac blend, it would make a perfect wine and other spirits mixer. It would also work out in cocktails because of its unmatched versatility. It stands out, especially with fruit flavors like citrus fruits and lemongrass.
15. Camus Small Batch Port Cask Finish Cognac
ABV: 43.2%
Region: Borderies, France
Tasting Notes: Sweet candied fruits with spices, nuts, and chocolate
The Camus Small Batch Port Cask Finish Cognac isn't like any Cognac you'll find. After all, it is a limited edition bottle. It's unique and different in the sense that its final maturation takes place in old port casks.
This Cognac is known to be the first one to do its final maturation this way. The casks played a huge role in giving it layers of elements, such as the elegant, rich aroma that is full of complexity.
There are candied fruit and roasted almond mixed on the nose to add to the sweet yet robust aroma profile of blackberry and spiciness. On the tongue, you will recognize its dark chocolate flavor long after taking its last sip!
16. Hennessy VS Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Cognac, France
Tasting Notes: Floral and citrus fruits, with oak and vanilla
Hennessy VS Cognac is a standard in the art of blending and a reflection of centuries worth of expertise. Aged in oak barrels, this blend combines 40 different types of rich Eaux-de-vie to create an exciting and unpredictable drink that boasts boldness, fruitiness, vibrancy, and spiciness in one.
Hennessy Very Special Cognac takes the standard of smoothness one step further with its rich vanilla taste and fresh floral finish. The aromas of this Cognac are just as excellent with the combination of roasted almonds, brown sugar, and an undertone of fruit. This has been a go-to drink for Cognac fans with an affordable price tag.
17. Hine Rare VSOP
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande and Petite Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Candied orange with violets, oak, and apple caramel
Hine Rare VSOP is an outstanding blend of Cognac that uses 25 different Eaux-de-vie from Grande or Petite Champagne. These are all made with Ugni Blanc grapes and have been aged for about 6 to 12 years in French Limousin oak barrels before blending them for an exquisite taste.
This bottle has an elegant nose characterized by roasted nectarines and apricots. After tasting each sip, the palate is full-bodied with rich, fruity flavors that transition beautifully into ginger, chocolate, orange, and oak. Its finish is described to be clean and has notes of dried stone fruits.
18. Kelt VSOP Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Similar notes to port wine; Delicate vanilla, rose, and licorice flavors
The artful use of Kelt’s ocean voyage oak barrels makes them unique in the industry. They put their experience and expertise into every bottle, using only high-quality materials for optimal ocean maturation results. For this specific Cognac, Kelt makes use of historic and high-quality young barrels.
This elegant bottle has a medium red-amber color. It offers subtle hints of floral aromas and flavors throughout the vanilla-focused finish. Aside from providing special notes, the luxurious, smooth nature and its fantastic mouthfeel make this drink a well-favored one.
19. Tesseron Lot 53 Perfection XO Cognac - Best Overall
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Pepper, herbs, tobacco, dried fruits, dark chocolate
The Tesseron Lot No 53 XO Perfection is the ultimate symbol of luxury and refinement. The two varieties used in this elegant spirit are Colombarde or Ugni Blanc to give it complexity and depth like no other drink can!
This top-of-the-line Cognac from Tesseron has been awarded consistently for its excellence, such as during the Wine Enthusiast: Spirit of the Year 2006 and International Wine and Spirit Competition.
When you take a sip of the round and lively Tesseron Lot 53 Perfection XO Cognac, it coats your mouth with an initially spicy and peppery theme. These notes would smoothly adjust into a more herby taste with hints of bitter cacao. The taste of this Cognac gives off luxury and prestige, which is what Grande Champagne Cognacs are known for!
20. Bache-Gabrielsen American Oak Aged Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Fins Bois, France
Tasting Notes: Ripe apricot, pear, and vanilla scent
The Bache-Gabrielsen American Oak Aged Cognac is one of the most delicate and distinctive Cognacs in today's time. Tennessee oak barrels give it an extra layer that makes it stand out from other brands.
Furthermore, this brand has a new twist on an old classic. They have always been committed to producing quality wine using the classic Ugni Blanc grape variety. But with their innovation, they're throwing in a minimum of 6 months to finish the aging period in American Tennessee Oak barrels.
The aroma of this Cognac is one that you can't help but take deep breaths. It features delicate notes of pineapple and coconut mixed with undertones of rich cocoa and vanilla from the initial aging from French oak.
21. Martell Blue Swift Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Borderies, Grande and Petite Champagne and Fins Bois, France.
Tasting Notes: Candied fruit, toffee, ginger, vanilla
When you think of Martell, the first thing that comes to mind might be their iconic Martell VSOP Cognac. But now they've improved with this new edition finished in Kentucky bourbon barrels!
To represent a harmonious marriage of French savoir-faire and American ingenuity, Martell's Blue Swift Cognac has come to embody everything great about their heritage.
Martell Blue Swift Cognac is surely a rare treat for connoisseurs of fine spirits with their vibrancy and smoothness. With each sip, you'll notice elegant notes of plum and candied fruits, accompanied perfectly by hints of toasted oak and vanilla sweetness. The overall taste comes off as smooth and well-rounded.
22. Cognac Park VS Carte Blanche Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Grand Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, and Fins Bois, France
Tasting Notes: Sweet apples and cherries, cinnamon, and chocolate finish
Cognac Park VS Carte Blanche Cognac perfectly represents the Cognac house's distinctive traditional style. As per the brand's description, this bottle brings any drinker enjoyment and satisfaction.
It only features natural flavors rather than synthetic tastes and doesn't give off overly strong notes on the palate. This would make the perfect Cognac for people who lean on soft and clean tastes.
Deliciously light and fragrant, this Cognac is packed with complex notes of lychee spice together with fruit jam. These two have always been a staple along with the brand's signature style. The first thing you notice about the palate is its welcoming soft texture. Then, you'll notice its finish with toffee, plums, chocolate, cinnamon, and more.
23. Hennessy Paradis Cognac - Best Aromas
ABV: 40%
Region: Cognac, France
Tasting Notes: Red fruits, perfumy flowers, silky texture
There is a certain elegance that only the iconic Hennessy Paradis Cognac can achieve. It speaks with a deep yet soft expression, and its bouquet is something divine that not every Cognac possesses. Its elegant and velvety qualities are definitely something you want to look forward to.
Its shining copper-gold shade will take your breath away. In addition, it exudes lively flowery scents such as honeysuckle, dried rose petals, and jasmine. You will notice enough undertones of red fruit and exquisite baking spices to make the nose complex.
To enjoy this drink to the fullest, we suggest you serve it at -15ºC, but you can also enjoy it on the rocks. The cold complements this Cognac very well as it agitates some unique aromas and flavors. This cognac is also ideal to be drunk after a dinner meal.
24. Delamain Pale and Dry XO Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Apples, orange, vanilla, wood, licorice flavors
Boasting an incredible 25 years of aging, the Delamain Pale and Dry is an exceptional blend of different XO Grande Champagne Cognacs to achieve the Delamain standard. Each Cognac was aged in different barrels. After being blended, the mixture is matured for two years to attain their famous well-balanced flavor.
This golden liquid elixir accents vanilla, honeysuckle, floral, and tropical fruit aromas on its elegant nose. A strong scent of succulents then overshadows these soft aromas. The mouthfeel is thick, and the complex flavors of rich dried fruit notes, licorice, crumbling toffee, and nutmeg come through the thickness.
25. Pierre Ferrand Réserve
ABV: 42.3%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Hints of walnuts, cinnamon, and licorice
Pierre Ferrand Reserve offers consumers the chance to experience the distinct taste of Cognac that went beyond the norms in the aging process. It's no wonder why it has gained multiple awards since its release, such as the 2018 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, 2018 The Cognac Masters, 2018 The Cognac Masters, and so on.
When you first smell this Cognac, its powerful fruitiness is quite evident. The toasty wood notes are paired nicely with complex qualities like raisin and incense for an interesting aroma.
In the mouth, it maintains the vibe it was going for. There is a strong presence of fresh fruits like lemon, green apple, and apricots. But before the fruity notes hit your palate, there is some spiciness first.
26. Tiffon Tres Vieille Reserve Fin Bois Cognac
ABV: 40%
Region: Fins Bois, France
Tasting Notes: Savory dried fruit with spicy notes
The Tiffon Tres Vieille Reserve Fin Bois Cognac is deep and dark brown with heavy wood notes on the nose. This transitions to candied fruit, which has a melting factor on the mouth. The scent reveals itself to be alluring, captivating your senses for an intense level of marmalade perfume experience!
The depth of flavor in this Cognac is surprising and has a subtle complexity brought by its unique aromas that complement the vivacity found on your palate. This outstanding product gains its perfection from an extended aging process that creates decadent flavors.
27. Remy Martin XO - Most Versatile
ABV: 40%
Region: Grande Champagne, France
Tasting Notes: Notes of plums, candied citrus, cinnamon, nuts, cocoa
The true excellence of France's Fine Champagne terroirs is showcased in the Remy Martin XO. It showcases what can be found throughout Grande and Petite Champagne terroirs - long aromatic layers upon rich flavors which linger beautifully on your palate.
Remy Martin XO is the perfect blend of luxury, refinement, and sophistication. It showcases its deep amber shade and velvety texture. It features a mix of jasmine and candied fruits on the nose, while the palate boasts savory notes of cinnamon and brioche.
Additionally, this bottle has taken home a gold award from the 2010 Spirits Business Cognac Masters (UK) and San Francisco World Spirits Competition in 2014. It's not hard to understand why as it comes from one of the major Cognac houses and one of the best brandy brands!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a delicious and sophisticated drink to enjoy, you can always rely on Cognac. There are many exquisite bottles of Cognac out there, and it can be hard to choose just one.
But we hope we have helped you narrow down the choices to lead you to the one that might appeal to your taste buds. And once you find your favorite bottle, make sure to savor every sip!
If you want to learn more about Cognac, check out the differences between Cognac and brandy, or Cognac’s caloric content if you are planning to indulge while on a diet.
Which of these illustrious bottles caught your attention the most? We'll be thrilled to hear your thoughts in the comments below!
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