Cognac and brandy have historically inhabited their own class of distilled beverages. We bring you the best cognac brands from France and unique brandies to suit your taste. Enjoy adding our distinctive drinks to your cabinet of spirits, alongside other established brands. We offer the best brandy and cognac from well-known, international regions. Our limited editions and rarities can fill your collector’s cabinet with an array of flavours that are perfect for savouring slowly.
Cognac and brandy might conjure thoughts of a fireside nightcap enjoyed from an ice-filled crystal glass, but they shouldn’t solely be reserved for neat sipping. From a sweet, herbaceous Vieux Carré to the tart fruitiness of a Sidecar, both spirits hold their own in all manner of cocktails — from high-end classics to unusual modern creations.
At GoodDrop, we pride ourselves on providing Australians with premium alcoholic spirits at prices they’ll love. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or getting creative with a cocktail shaker, we’re the place to buy brandy and Cognac in Australia. For customised gift messaging and fast, reliable delivery, explore the GoodDrop range today.
Brandy originated in the medieval era and was initially used as a medicine. It wasn't until the 16th century that brandy became popular as an alcoholic beverage. The term brandy comes from the Dutch word "brandewijn" which means "burnt wine,” likely referencing the distillation process.
The spirit became especially popular in France during the 17th and 18th centuries. French brandy was considered to be of the highest quality and was often exported to other countries. In later years, production spread to other parts of Europe, as well as the Americas.
While it’s most often distilled from grapes, brandy can also be produced from apples, cherries, or raspberries. Made and relished in several countries, brandy has many popular names: ouzo (Greece), Pisco (Peru), Armagnac (south-west France), Calvados (northern France) and grappa (Italy and California), among others.
Cognac is a type of brandy that hails from the Cognac region of France. Located in the southwestern part of the country, its unique microclimate and exceptional soil quality are optimal for growing the specific grape varietals used to make this world-famous spirit.
The foremost Cognac houses have a history dating back to the Roman emperor Probus, who graciously allowed the ancient Gauls to own vineyards. However, the Cognac-making process wasn’t developed until the 17th century as a way to preserve wine on long voyages. The first distillery was founded in 1624 on the Charente River, about 40 miles northwest of Cognac.
As Dutch merchants extended their travels, the spirit spent even longer ageing in the barrels, which elevated its flavour profile. Soon, Cognac’s popularity exploded. By 1789, Cognac had been declared a protected region in France, ensuring that only brandies produced in this region could bear the esteemed name on their bottles.
Today, Cognac is available in more than 150 countries and enjoyed recreationally around the globe. This exclusive subtype of brandy is a gem in any collection.
The initials VS, VSOP and XO refer to the different categories of Cognac:
Before buying Cognac, it is important to consider the occasion for which it will be consumed. VS Cognacs are typically considered to be everyday quaffing, while VSOP and XO Cognacs are better suited for special events.
GoodDrop is your one-stop online shop to buy brandy and Cognac in Australia. Stock up on your favourite bottling, or expand your palette with something new. Add the best cognac and brandy brands to your collection for a diverse tasting experience, with next-day delivery to NSW postcodes from Otford to Kiama inclusive and country-wide shipping for a flat fee.
If you have any questions, please visit our FAQ page, or contact us today at 1300 603 344. We look forward to supplying premium Cognac and brandy at great prices!
Most people think of Cognac and brandy as being the same thing. However, there are some key differences between the two spirits. For starters, Cognac is made from specific types of grapes grown in the Cognac region of France. On the other hand, brandy can be made from any type of grape.
Cognac is also double-distilled, while brandy is typically only distilled once. This extra step in the production process results in a smoother, more refined spirit. Finally, Cognac must be aged for at least two years in oak barrels, while brandy has no such ageing requirements.
Eaux-de-vie is a clear, colourless fruit distillate produced by fermenting and distilling fruit juices — grapes, in the case of Cognac. The name literally means "water of life" in French. After the distilling and ageing process, the master blender will combine different eaux-de-vie to create a Cognac blend that adheres to VS, VSOP, or XO regulations. Most Cognacs are a blend of several different grapes varietals, typically Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard.
There is no simple answer to this question as it depends on several factors, including personal preferences. However, many experts agree that Hennessy and Courvoisier are among the best Cognac houses on the market.
When you decide to buy Cognac, you should keep in mind that the quality of the spirit depends on the grapes used and the ageing process. The best Cognacs are made with grapes from the Grande Champagne region, named for the nature of its soils.
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