Are you looking for the perfect pour of Cognac? Look no further! Thirst has put together a definitive list of top-notch Philippine Cognac brands that will make your next happy hour even happier.
Our selection boasts a range of popular favorites as well as rare finds, ensuring there’s something for everyone’s taste. So go ahead, grab a glass, and prepare to indulge in some of the Philippines’ finest Cognacs. Cheers!
1. Remy Martin 1738
This Rémy offering is precisely crafted from grapes grown exclusively in the Cognac Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne region, which is situated at the heart of the Cognac region. It’s essential to note that other Rémy products may incorporate varying grape growths and proportions.
The eau de vie is distilled in small, classic alembic charentais copper stills and aged in Limousin oak in their private cellars. The resulting blend is meticulously crafted to achieve the desired profile.
Remy has many different kinds of cognac. Some of the ones we have tried are the VSOP and the 1989 year release. They have something for everyone’s taste or budget.
Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal 2 is a mix of over 240 types of cognac. The youngest part is four years old, and the oldest is 20 years old. It costs less than half the price of an XO. It has more Grande Champagne growth grapes than VSOP cognac.
2. Camus Borderies XO
Camus is an intriguing distillery established in 1863. They exclusively source their grapes from the Borderies Cognac area, one of the smallest growing regions in the Cognac region, for their XO cognac and other products.
While Camus is well-known in most countries, it appears that they are not as recognized in the United States. However, they were present in the US market during the 1960s through the 70s and have recently made efforts to re-establish their brand in the American market.
The eau de vie is made in small copper stills. It is then put into special oak barrels made from Limousin trees. The wood of the barrels helps the flavor of the eau de vie come out, but not too much, so it can’t be tasted.
Within their portfolio, Camus provides a range of cognacs that cater to diverse preferences and budgets. Notably, they are the sole house that offers various unique Borderies releases.
Types of Cognac
Now that you’re familiar with the best cognac brands let’s cover the basics of cognac types.
1. VS (Very Special)
VS (Very Special) is a blend of Cognac that has been aged for at least two years in oak barrels. It must meet a minimum standard of 40% ABV. VS is the youngest type of cognac and, thus, generally speaking, not as expensive as other types.
2. VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale)
VSOP, short for Very Superior Old Pale, is a delightful blend of Cognac that has undergone a minimum aging period of four years in oak barrels. Additionally, it must possess a minimum of 40% ABV to meet the set standards.
3. XO (Extra Old)
XO, extra old Cognac is a blend of at least six-year-old eau de vie. It is the most expensive type due to its rigorous standards, such as possessing a minimum ABV of 40%.
4. Hors d’Age
Hors d’Age is a blend of Cognac that has been aged for at least 10 years. It must meet the minimum ABV standard of 40%, and generally speaking, it is considered to be the most exclusive type of cognac due to its long aging period.
How to Enjoy Cognac
Enjoying cognac is really a matter of personal preference. Some may prefer to drink it neat, while others may choose to add ice or dilute it with water. Cognac is also great for making cocktails, such as the classic Side Car, French 75, and more.
Here are some tips for enjoying your cognac:
Tip 1: If It’s Young, Mix It
For those looking to boost the taste and scent of younger cognacs such as VSOP or XO, a touch of dilution can work wonders. This can come in the form of a couple of ice cubes or a few drops of water. Nonetheless, it’s essential to be cautious not to overdo it.
Tip 2: If It’s Old, Drink It Straight
When it comes to older cognacs, like Hors d’Age, simplicity is key, these exceptional blends require no further enhancement to fully showcase their rich flavors and enticing aromas.
FAQs
Is cognac a whisky?
No, cognac is not a whisky. It is made from grapes rather than grains and is produced in the Cognac region of France.
At first glance, it’s easy to see why people may get confused. Both cognac and whisky are amber-colored spirits with a rich history and cultural significance to their respective regions. However, the methods used to produce these beverages are quite distinct. Cognac is made from grapes, while whisky is typically made from barley and corn.
Cognac is made only in a certain area of France, while whisky can be made everywhere except Scotland. Scotch whisky must be made and aged in Scotland.
Is cognac a brandy?
Brandy can be made from any distilled spirit produced from fermented fruit juice, such as grapes. Notably, cognac, which is made from fermented grape juice, falls under the category of brandy.
Maison Martell and many others consider cognac to be in a league of its own when compared to other types of brandy. Cognac is a special kind of brandy. It has to meet certain standards of quality before it can be sold. This makes it different from other kinds of brandy.
So, yes, cognac is a brandy, but it is special in its own right and has specific rules and regulations that make it unique from other types of brandy. Cheers!
Which is better, brandy or cognac?
There is no clear answer to this question as everyone has their own opinion. Brandy and cognac are often compared, but there is no one-size-fits-all answer for which is better.
Order Your Cognac with Thirst Today!
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of the different types and styles of cognac, as well as how to enjoy them. Whether you’re looking for an XO blend or something else, Thirst is here to help.
We have all your favorite Philippine Cognac brands available at competitive prices – so why wait? Browse our selection today and get ready to pour yourself a perfect glass of Cognac! Cheers from Thirst!
