Best Néo-Aquitain 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
![Cognac Jean Doussoux Heritage](/images/products/4129ae513df54adeb834a0007302a23d.png?w=234&h=140)
![Jean Doussoux Cognac XO N°20](images/products/a2f542a8-e7c2-4d3d-806a-67c35569bc0a.jpeg?w=234&h=140)
Domaine du Chêne
Jean Doussoux Cognac XO N°20
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
![Single Cru Grande Champagne XO](images/products/b0791c60-ac6c-4c76-bf60-ff610b7faee7.jpeg?w=234&h=140)
Martell
Single Cru Grande Champagne XO
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
![Cognac XO Royal](/images/products/38c0e3100837436399a4f1734b7b45c4.jpg?w=234&h=140)
Courvoisier
Cognac XO Royal
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023, 2024
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
![Hors D’age](/images/products/ec128936e66147398675fd21ac1b7d36.png?w=234&h=140)
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Hors D’age
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023, 2024
![Napoleon](/images/products/68b110a6aeb0490c8865181e5ebb0fb8.jpg?w=234&h=140)
Domaine Du Grand Comte
Napoleon
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023, 2024
![Pure Folle Blanche 15 YO Bas-Armagnac](/images/products/1832f9bfdbd34410a01ba489033a043c.jpg?w=234&h=140)
Château du Tariquet
Pure Folle Blanche 15 YO Bas-Armagnac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Armagnac Gold Trophy 2020
![Cask Strength 1994 Bas Armagnac](images/products/caaa9296-04ee-4630-8294-ce5d3cd3ab2c.jpg?w=234&h=140)
Chateau de Laubade
Cask Strength 1994 Bas Armagnac
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy 2022
![Armagnac Chevalier D'Espalet VS](/images/products/f8bc3d0011c441418c8f27decfb62cdd.jpg?w=234&h=140)
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
![VSOP](/images/products/6a0805439f194524b65880d0a70ebb48.png?w=234&h=140)
Domaine Du Grand Comte
VSOP
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023, 2024
![VSOP](/images/products/17a8eaa439564975beb23bdb96b4ea30.jpg?w=234&h=140)
![Martell VSOP](/images/products/2b586fb020de4d9da673f59f1c936ec5.png?w=234&h=140)
![Martell Blue Swift Cognac](/images/products/26df2a6cf00149dd950f810ba5bbf6e3.png?w=234&h=140)
Martell
Martell Blue Swift Cognac
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
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 XO Renaissance Cognac](/images/products/e90e4247b017439ab118f5b9274de650.png?w=234&h=140)
ABK6 Cognac
ABK6 XO Renaissance Cognac
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2024
![Selection des Anges Cognac](/images/products/18675f681106448998e93abe6ee27e9a.png?w=234&h=140)
Ferrand Cognac
Selection des Anges Cognac
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold 2023
![N° 4 VS Cognac](/images/products/8aca2166422641dcbf2d5b37bd01fb2d.jpg?w=234&h=140)
Ragnaud Sabourin
N° 4 VS Cognac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2023
![50 YO Grande Champagne Cognac](/images/products/282af688a5f94a7692467041e0d1f3d3.png?w=234&h=140)
Hermitage Cognac
50 YO Grande Champagne Cognac
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding 2021
Very special Cognac is the youngest that is allowed on the market. It must be aged for at least three years, with the reference date being October 1. The fresh and lively character of these labels makes them an excellent option for cocktails and mixed drinks.
THE BEST VS Cognac Brandies
Best Néo-Aquitain Brandy Producers
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
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d45f8044d0f8418d862854e61bc1c9a8.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/afc1ceb1dff6427ab6b6ccc75d4c650e.png?w=160)
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022
![2 stars](/images/productawards/76210db0336446fc9876b3514cb58a5c.png?w=160)
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
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d816aeb6bd344c7ab5140c3695e9809f.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/fbf82fe394dd484b8819b601877dd27b.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
![2 stars](/images/productawards/371fca31668d499a80da25f39b39ad47.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020, 2019
BEST ABK6 Cognac Spirits
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/a02953b89be24ca298ed055f84957f86.png?w=160)
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023, 2020, 2019
![2 stars](/images/productawards/7fd44aa133634c7fb3397a02334530ca.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2022
![2 stars](/images/productawards/bc771c38165b4d72aef95b7739a07a6c.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2019
BEST Distillerie Merlet & Fils Liqueurs
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d45f8044d0f8418d862854e61bc1c9a8.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/73dd80dabaa24861895bdc0f6029f129.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
![2 stars](/images/productawards/371fca31668d499a80da25f39b39ad47.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020
BEST MARIE BRIZARD WINE & SPIRITS Liqueurs
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/a02953b89be24ca298ed055f84957f86.png?w=160)
ISC-International Spirits Challenge - Double Gold
2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/afc1ceb1dff6427ab6b6ccc75d4c650e.png?w=160)
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2023, 2022
![2 stars](/images/productawards/13859fb8e650467c95d963285007e698.png?w=160)
The Cognac Masters - Master
2023
BEST A de Fussigny Spirits
Le Domaine du Chêne is a winery and distillery located in the heart of France, specializing in the production of high-quality spirits and wines. The estate is renowned for its craftsmanship and dedication to creating unique products that reflect the rich agricultural heritage of the region.
Domaine du Chêne produces a range of beverages, including fine brandies, liquors, and wines, using traditional methods passed down through generations. The estate is known for its commitment to sustainable and environmentally-friendly practices, ensuring that each product is made with the highest standards of quality.
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/73dd80dabaa24861895bdc0f6029f129.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
![2 stars](/images/productawards/371fca31668d499a80da25f39b39ad47.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2020
![2 stars](/images/productawards/ad2802339d1543359591fa511a8ea208.png?w=160)
World Cognac Awards - Best X.X.O.
2022
BEST Domaine du Chêne Spirits
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/985e060b37e9467c954630085a0f256a.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
![2 stars](/images/productawards/1bc45630468947709437a9b19257d51b.png?w=160)
USA Wine Ratings - Gold
2022
BEST Maison Ansac Spirits
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d816aeb6bd344c7ab5140c3695e9809f.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
BEST GAUTIER Spirits
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d45f8044d0f8418d862854e61bc1c9a8.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/c6e11b74bbcf47a6b2a5f789e17d8d42.png?w=160)
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Top 100
2021, 2020
BEST Camus Spirits
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/985e060b37e9467c954630085a0f256a.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
![2 stars](/images/productawards/73dd80dabaa24861895bdc0f6029f129.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
BEST Château de Beaulon Spirits
Best Néo-Aquitain 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
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d816aeb6bd344c7ab5140c3695e9809f.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
![2 stars](/images/productawards/fbf82fe394dd484b8819b601877dd27b.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021, 2019
![2 stars](/images/productawards/371fca31668d499a80da25f39b39ad47.png?w=160)
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
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d816aeb6bd344c7ab5140c3695e9809f.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024, 2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/b12882cd4d854584a7198e647314e42e.png?w=160)
SWSC - Singapore World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/afc1ceb1dff6427ab6b6ccc75d4c650e.png?w=160)
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
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d45f8044d0f8418d862854e61bc1c9a8.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
![2 stars](/images/productawards/afc1ceb1dff6427ab6b6ccc75d4c650e.png?w=160)
The Cognac Masters - Gold
2022
![2 stars](/images/productawards/44dbf39d3ca541cdb810592060717499.png?w=160)
USC- Ultimate Spirits Challenge - Chairman's Trophy
2023
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/ad2802339d1543359591fa511a8ea208.png?w=160)
World Cognac Awards - Best X.X.O.
2022
![2 stars](/images/productawards/e7750e1b67e74f388608f7ca6dcb8384.png?w=160)
World's Best Cognac - Winner
2022
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/d45f8044d0f8418d862854e61bc1c9a8.png?w=160)
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2023
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/9e0fd07e4f9b43e1ab346912e62ac824.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/73dd80dabaa24861895bdc0f6029f129.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/9e0fd07e4f9b43e1ab346912e62ac824.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
AWARDS
![2 stars](/images/productawards/73dd80dabaa24861895bdc0f6029f129.png?w=160)
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2021
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