TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Brandy Types
Extra old Cognac label is the one with a blend that has been aged the longest. Although the previous legislation stated that XO needs to be at least six years old, new categorization, which will be fully implemented by March 31, 2019, will indicate that to be labeled as an XO, the blend will have to be at least ten years old.
However, the age limitation only signifies that the youngest in the blend is six (ten) years old, but when it comes to XO most blends are significantly older than that. XO Cognac should always be served neat in a snifter glass, and are best enjoyed as a digestif.
THE BEST XO Cognac Brandies
Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Cognac XO N°20
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Martell
Single Cru Grande Champagne XO
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
Courvoisier
Cognac XO Royal
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Tsikoudia is a Cretan spirit that is distilled from fermented grape pomace (strafylo)—the solid remains that are left after the grapes have been pressed. Tsikoudia is traditionally distilled in October and November, usually in small, family-owned copper stills.
The final product is a clear, potent, and colorless drink with an alcohol content that can vary from 40 to 65% ABV. Tsikoudia is similar to tsipouro, another pomace spirit that is produced in other parts of Greece. Unlike tsipouro, tsikoudia is typically distilled only once, which helps preserve flavors and aromas.
Slavonian plum brandy is the most popular drink in eastern Croatia. It is distilled from locally grown fresh and ripe plums such as Bistrica, which have been cultivated in the region for centuries. This clear drink can range from light yellow to amber in color, depending on whether it is aged in Slavonian oak.
It is characterized by harmonious aromas of plums and a long finish, while its alcohol content may range from 37.5 to 42.5%. Slavonian šljivovica is not merely a drink, it is deeply integrated into Slavonian tradition, and no special event or gathering is complete without a shot of well-chilled šljivovica.
Considered to be one of the first grape brandy varieties produced in France, Armagnac originated in Gascony, a historic area now divided between the regions of Nouvelle-Aquitaine and Occitanie. The first written records on Armagnac date back to the 15th century, when it was mainly used as a stomach remedy.
Although the predominant grape is Ugni Blanc, ten different grapes are allowed in its production, and since the 19th century, Armagnac is almost always distilled once. The final blend is then aged in oak casks for a minimum of two years. Maturation provides Armagnac with the signature complex flavor, and while young varieties show vanilla and honey notes, matured versions are typically characterized by the flavor of roasted nuts, licorice, and tobacco.
THE BEST Armagnac Brandies
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Hors D’age
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Napoleon
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Château du Tariquet
Pure Folle Blanche 15 YO Bas-Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Armagnac Gold Trophy 2020
Chateau de Laubade
Cask Strength 1994 Bas Armagnac
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy 2022
Armagnac Janneau
Armagnac Chevalier D'Espalet VS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Very superior old pale is a Cognac category whose blend is aged for at least four years—which means that the youngest brandy mixed in the blend is four years old, while the others can be aged for longer. VSOP is both lively and serious, and it can be enjoyed on its own, preferably slowly sipped from a snifter glass, but it also incorporates well into mixed drinks and cocktails.
THE BEST VSOP Cognac Brandies
Domaine Du Grand Comte
VSOP
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024, 2023
Martell
Martell Blue Swift Cognac
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
Šljivovica, internationally known as slivovitz, is a clear, potent drink that is distilled from fermented plums. It is produced throughout Central and Eastern Europe—namely Serbia, Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Slovenia, Hungary, Slovakia, Czech Republic, Bulgaria, Poland, and Romania.
Depending on tradition and the desired taste profile, šljivovica can be distilled once or multiple times, and it benefits from aging in oak which can significantly improve its flavor, color, and aroma. The drink has a long tradition in each region where it is produced, and although it was mainly associated with home production, nowadays there are multiple regional brands available on the market.
This classic French brandy is distilled from grapes in order to produce eau-de-vie, which is then aged and blended to make cognac. The drink originated when it was revealed that eau-de-vie brandy of the Charente region develops different and more sophisticated flavors when aged in oak casks.
Since its introduction to the global market, cognac became a sought-after drink, especially enjoyed by the British aristocracy. With the influx of low-quality drinks that were marketed as cognac, it was necessary to control its production. In 1936, cognac was regulated by the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC), which restricted its production to six different terroirs and the area that includes the entire department of the Charente-Maritime, most of the department of Charente, and small parts of the Deux-Sèvres and Dordogne.
VARIATIONS OF Cognac
THE BEST Cognac Brandies
ABK6 Cognac
ABK6 XO Renaissance Cognac
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
Ferrand Cognac
Selection des Anges Cognac
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023
Ragnaud Sabourin
N° 4 VS Cognac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2023
Hermitage Cognac
50 YO Grande Champagne Cognac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Calvados is a brandy distilled from apple cider or a combination of apples and pears. The fermented juice is usually double distilled to create the base of the brandy, which is then aged, and finally blended.
The production of Calvados is strictly regulated, and final products are classified according to the length of maturation, with two years being the minimum aging period. The appellation Calvados is divided into three sub-regions that slightly differ in the base ingredient, terroir, and the distillation process.
THE BEST Calvados Fruit Brandies
SPIRIT FRANCE DIFFUSION
Lecompte 18 YO Calvados
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2023
SPIRIT FRANCE DIFFUSION
Foucart VS Calvados
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2023
Château du Breuil
Calvados Pays D'Auge - 15 Ans
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2020
CALVADOS CHRISTIAN DROUIN
La Fine de Lelouvier
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold 2023
Along with Cognac and Armagnac, the Portuguese Lourinhã region is one of the three designated brandy-production regions in the world. This brandy is mostly produced with neutral white wine that has good acidity. Recommended grape varieties include Alicante, Alvadurão, Broal Espinho, Marquinhas, Malvásia Rei (Seminário), and Tália.
After it is distilled, the spirit is aged in oak casks before it is cut with water to reach the desired alcohol content of 40% ABV. Aging must be carried out in the designated region, exclusively in oak and chestnut barrels. Specific climate, terroir, and the proximity of the sea all influence the final character of Lourinhã brandy.
Hungarian pálinka is a fruit brandy distilled from various fermented fruit such as plums, apricots, or cherries. The name pálinka has been protected under European Union law, and can only be produced in Hungary from fruit grown within the country’s borders.
Although all varieties must be rested for a minimum of three months, some can be barrel-aged, allowing the fruit flavors to become more prominent and the drink to become more mellow and rounded. Pálinka has to have a minimum of 37.5 ABV, and no flavorings, sweeteners, or colorings are allowed in its production.
VARIATIONS OF Pálinka
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Brandy Producers
Torres Brandy is a renowned Spanish producer of high-quality brandies and spirits, based in Vilafranca del Penedès, Barcelona. The brand is part of the Torres family legacy, which has been dedicated to winemaking and distillation for generations since 1928.
They are recognized for blending tradition with innovation, producing premium spirits crafted from select white wines and aged meticulously in oak barrels. Their product portfolio includes various expressions of brandy, such as Torres 10, Torres 15, Torres 20, and Jaime I, each representing distinct levels of aging and complexity.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2023
BEST Miguel Torres Spirits
Ferrand Cognac is a prestigious and renowned producer of high-quality cognac, based in the heart of the Cognac region in France. Founded in 1989 by Alexandre Gabriel, Ferrand is dedicated to producing premium, artisanal cognac using traditional methods and the finest ingredients.
The brand is known for its focus on craftsmanship, blending heritage with innovation, creating some of the most refined and well-respected cognacs in the world. Ferrand Cognac uses grapes from the renowned Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus, the top-rated regions in Cognac production.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold trophy
2014
BEST Ferrand Cognac Spirits
ABK6 Cognac is a prestigious brand created in 2005 by Francis Abécassis. The name "ABK6" is a condensed version of the family name and represents the fusion of tradition and modernity. The brand focuses on producing Single Estate Cognac, meaning the entire process, from vineyard cultivation to bottling, is handled on their own estate.
This ensures a unique and high-quality product that reflects the expertise of their Master Blender. ABK6's offerings include a wide range of cognacs, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail and respect for tradition.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020, 2019
BEST ABK6 Cognac Spirits
Domaine Grand Comté, located in Roquelaure in the Gers department of southwestern France, is a family-owned estate managed by Michel Baylac and his daughter Aurélie, continuing a legacy dating back to 1860. The estate spans 15 hectares of vineyards planted on clay-limestone soils typical of the Haut-Armagnac terroir, and operates under sustainable farming practices that respect the environment.
Domaine Grand Comté produces a range of high-quality beverages, including IGP Côtes de Gascogne wines (red, rosé, and white), traditional Floc de Gascogne aperitifs, and aged Armagnac. The estate also offers sparkling wines crafted through traditional fermentation methods.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
BEST Domaine Du Grand Comte Spirits
Royal Salute is a blended Scotch whisky brand produced and bottled by Chivas Brothers in Strathisla Distillery in Speyside, Scotland. Royal Salute is a luxury Scotch whisky brand, launched in 1953 as a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. Known for its exclusivity, Royal Salute only produces whiskies aged 21 years or more, combining elegance and quality.
The brand celebrates British heritage through special releases and collaborations in art, fashion, and polo. Each bottle reflects a dedication to craftsmanship and tradition, catering to connoisseurs worldwide.
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2021, 2020, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
BEST Royal Salute Spirits
Hermitage Cognac specializes in rare, single-estate vintage cognacs, sourced from family-owned cellars. They focus on providing exceptional, unblended spirits, free from additives, which reflects the craftsmanship of the Grande Champagne region. The brand offers age-stated and Paradis Vintage cognacs, ensuring authenticity and exclusivity for collectors.
Hermitage Cognac prides itself on transparency, guaranteeing provenance and quality for every bottle. Their offerings cater to connoisseurs and investors, with a commitment to producing some of the finest cognacs available today.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2021, 2020, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Cognac Gold Trophy
2021, 2020
BEST Hermitage Cognac Spirits
Calvados Boulard is a renowned French producer specializing in Calvados, an apple brandy originating from the Normandy region. Established in 1825, the company is known for its commitment to quality, blending tradition with modern techniques. Boulard uses a variety of apples grown in the Pays d'Auge, a region famous for producing some of the finest Calvados.
Their distillation process, combined with careful aging in oak barrels, creates complex and refined spirits. The brand offers a range of Calvados, from young, fresh varieties to well-aged expressions, appealing to both newcomers and connoisseurs.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Silver
2024
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023
BEST Calvados Boulard Spirits
AWARDS
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2019
BEST Distillerie Merlet & Fils Liqueurs
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020
BEST MARIE BRIZARD WINE & SPIRITS Liqueurs
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Cognac Gold Trophy
2023
BEST Ragnaud Sabourin Spirits
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best European Brandies
The ABK6 XO Renaissance Cognac is a luxurious and finely crafted cognac, showcasing the exceptional quality of single estate production. Aged for an extended period, it features a deep amber hue and a rich aromatic profile with notes of dried fruits, spices, vanilla, and toasted oak.
On the palate, it is smooth and full-bodied, offering a harmonious balance of sweetness and complexity with hints of honey, cinnamon, and subtle floral undertones. Perfect for savoring neat, this cognac embodies elegance and sophistication, making it an excellent choice for connoisseurs.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020
The Cognac Martell XO is a premium expression from the renowned Martell House, showcasing their mastery in crafting exceptional cognac. This Extra Old blend combines eaux-de-vie from the prestigious Grande Champagne and Borderies regions, resulting in a complex and refined character.
It features a rich bouquet of dried fruits, spices, and toasted oak, with a smooth, velvety texture on the palate and a lingering, elegant finish. Perfect for special occasions or as a luxurious gift, Martell XO embodies sophistication and timeless quality.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022
Selection des Anges Cognac by Ferrand is a prestigious and rare cognac, considered one of the finest offerings from the Ferrand distillery. It is crafted with exceptional attention to detail and a blend of the best eaux-de-vie from the Grande Champagne region, known for producing the highest quality cognac.
This cognac is aged for several decades in oak barrels, allowing it to develop a rich and complex profile. The aging process brings out deep, mature flavors, including notes of dried fruit, spices, vanilla, and subtle floral undertones. The finish is smooth and long-lasting, showcasing the cognac’s refined character and depth.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023
Hors d'Âge by Domaine du Grand Comté is an exceptional aged Armagnac that showcases the pinnacle of craftsmanship and tradition. This premium spirit is aged for decades in oak barrels, allowing it to develop deep, complex flavors of dried fruits, toasted nuts, vanilla, and spices, with a smooth and luxurious finish.
Known for its refined character and rarity, Hors d'Âge is an ideal choice for connoisseurs and collectors seeking a truly timeless experience.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
NYWSC - New York World Spirits Competition - Gold
2023
VSOP by Domaine du Grand Comte is a premium French brandy crafted with exceptional care and tradition. Aged for a minimum of four years, this Very Superior Old Pale (VSOP) offers a refined and balanced profile, combining notes of dried fruits, vanilla, and subtle oak with a smooth and lingering finish.
It embodies the artistry of French distillation and maturation, making it an excellent choice for sipping neat or as a luxurious base for classic cocktails.
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Pisco Gold Trophy
2019
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Cognac Gold Trophy
2023
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Cognac Gold Trophy
2021
TasteAtlas food rankings are based on the ratings of the TasteAtlas audience, with a series of mechanisms that recognize real users and that ignore bot, nationalist or local patriotic ratings, and give additional value to the ratings of users that the system recognizes as knowledgeable. For the “Top 100 European Brandies” list until March 02, 2025, 1,097 ratings were recorded, of which 747 were recognized by the system as legitimate. TasteAtlas Rankings should not be seen as the final global conclusion about food. Their purpose is to promote excellent local foods, instill pride in traditional dishes, and arouse curiosity about dishes you haven’t tried.