The Essential Guide to Enjoying Cognac: 5 Key Rules

The best place to enjoy cognac in New York, and perhaps the entire country, is the Brandy Library, which offers over 150 bottlings, including a range of vintage spirits from the early 20th century. Additionally, Flavien Desoblin, who founded the prestigious establishment in 2004, is a fervent supporter of cognac in addition to having 14 years of experience serving drinks.

The Essential Guide to Enjoying Cognac: 5 Key Rules

Cognac, often misunderstood and underappreciated, deserves a place in the spotlight. To help you navigate this exquisite spirit, we consulted an expert for essential tips on how to enjoy cognac to its fullest. Here are five key rules that every cognac enthusiast should know.

1. Mix Young Cognacs for Cocktails

When it comes to mixing cocktails, younger cognacs are your best bet. Opt for spirits like Courvoisier VS, Frapin VS, or Leopold Gourmel Premieres Saveurs. These younger varieties boast citrus, nutty, and floral flavors that harmonize beautifully in classic cocktails. For instance, consider mixing a refreshing Sidecar or a sophisticated French Connection. On hot days, Desoblin recommends a simple yet delightful concoction: a young cognac mixed with ginger ale over ice. For something unique, try his Jarnac Ginger, a brandy-based twist on the popular Dark 'n Stormy.

2. Sip Old Cognacs Straight

For those aged cognacs with depth and complexity, it's best to enjoy them straight. Desoblin emphasizes that premium spirits, such as XO or hors d’âge cognacs, should never be used in cocktails. These delicate aged brandies reveal subtle notes best appreciated on their own. Desoblin suggests enjoying these high-quality cognacs “after dinner, with minimal distractions.” To fully savor their complexity, ensure a peaceful environment—no stress or loud company!

3. Avoid Water and Ice

One common mistake is adding water or ice to cognac. Desoblin warns that water can dilute the flavors, making the spirit bland, while ice can completely mask its intricate profiles. Instead, serve cognac neat, at room temperature, or slightly chilled. The ideal vessel for enjoying cognac is a traditional snifter. Its wide, balloon-shaped bottom allows for swirling, which liberates aromatic compounds, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

4. Discover Affordable Cognacs

For those new to cognac, there’s no need to break the bank. There are plenty of excellent options available for under $50. Desoblin recommends trying the following affordable yet high-quality cognacs:

• Pierre Ferrand Ambre
• Hardy VSOP
• Cognac Park Borderies Single Vineyard
• H by Hine
• Normandin-Mercier VSOP
• Louis Grimaud VSOP
• Vignoble Grateaud Bouquet des Borderies

These selections will help you explore the world of cognac without overspending.

5. Start Building Your Cognac Collection

If you've ever considered starting a brandy collection, now is the time to act. Due to increasing demand for premium XO bottlings, particularly in Asia, many major cognac producers are depleting their older stocks. Desoblin warns that soon these sought-after spirits may not only become harder to find in the U.S., but their quality may also decline. Investing in your collection now ensures that you can enjoy high-quality cognacs for years to come.