There’s nothing quite like a glass of brandy or Cognac to enjoy after a long day and these luxurious drinks are the perfect way to unwind and relax. Brandy is a type of distilled grape wine that has been aged in oak barrels. It is smooth and rich, with a complex flavour that is perfect for sipping. Cognac is a type of brandy that is made in the Cognac region of France. It is also aged in oak barrels and has a similarly smooth and rich flavour. Both Brandy and Cognac are premium spirits, and if you’re looking for a truly indulgent experience, read on to see what our favourites are.
Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac
Among the rarest and most prestigious spirits in the world, the Hermitage Siècle d’Or 100 Year Old Cognac stands as a true collector’s treasure. Believed to be the oldest barrel-aged cognac ever released, this single-estate expression spent a century maturing in Limousin oak casks in the heart of Grande Champagne, Cognac’s Premier Cru. Crafted from Ugni Blanc grapes grown in Lignières Sonneville and traditionally distilled in Segonzac, it represents the pinnacle of time, terroir and craftsmanship. The flavour profile is extraordinarily complex and refined. Expect rich aromas of cocoa, fig, truffle and burnt sugar, leading to a palate layered with burnt toffee, candied fruit, mushroom and ginger, and finishing with an elegant note of kumquat. Only 68 one-litre decanters exist, each hand-blown by Cumbria Crystal and engraved in gold leaf, presented in a bespoke wooden case with a signed letter from Hermitage Chairman David Baker. A statement piece for connoisseurs and collectors alike.
Seignette VS Cognac
With a long and prestigious history, Seignette VS is a cognac for discerning drinkers. Its fresh, contemporary style belies its depth of flavour, with notes of dried apricot, vanilla and hints of honeysuckle on the nose, followed by oaky vanilla notes, a touch of citrus and a long, creamy finish on the palate. Seignette VS is the perfect drink for any occasion. The Seignette family can be traced back to the 17th century Western French coast, known as prominent traders in salt and cognac in the La Rochelle region. Their coat of arms is recognised by a swan, which historically populated the banks of the Charente River in Cognac, as well as being a symbol of power, grace and elegance. The swan features on the Seignette VS label in tribute to the family’s legacy. Seignette VS is a modern-day cognac with notes of dried apricot, vanilla and hints of honeysuckle on the nose, followed by oaky vanilla notes, a touch of citrus and a long, creamy finish on the palate. It’s fresh, with depth and flavour.
Courvoisier V.S.O.P
Courvoisier’s Maison style celebrates the intricate nuances of its exuberant floral cognac. It is a cognac in blossom, exquisitely balanced, vibrant and lingering. Courvoisier VSOP captures the versatility and exquisite layering of the Courvoisier Maison blend. A long summer’s day of jasmine and blossoming roses, hints of gingerbread and vanilla, deepening to dried apricot and peaches. This cognac is a marriage of four crus: Fins Bois, Borderies, Petite and Grande Champagne, carefully and expertly matured. Through the subtle art of making and blending, Courvoisier realises the potential of each and every ingredient.
Paul John XO Brandy
Paul John’s Goan Brandy, made with Ugni Blanc and Bangalore purple grapes and matured in French Limousin oak casks, is an interesting release. Aromas of honey, strawberry liquorice, orange zest and butterscotch fill the nose, complemented by notes of cranberries, caramel and rum-soaked raisins throughout the palate.
Hennessy XO Cognac
This is the original ‘extra-old’ cognac, which was first bottled in 1870 by Maurice Hennessy for family and friends. It is much darker and more complex than the VSOP, with appealing leather and tobacco notes and a touch of spice, making it a great cigar cognac.
Courvoisier Erte Cognac No.1
Erte was a leading Art Deco artist who sadly passed away shortly after the release of his limited edition Courvoisier bottles. These bottles are now highly sought-after by collectors, with some of the eaux-de-vie used in the production dating back to 1892, the year of Erte’s birth.
HENNESSY PARADIS Gift box with bottle – 70 cL
Erte was a leading Art Deco artist who sadly passed away shortly after the release of his limited edition Courvoisier bottles. These bottles are now highly sought-after by collectors, with some of the eaux-de-vie used in the production dating back to 1892, the year of Erte’s birth.
