Are you looking for a delicious and affordable cognac? You’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the eight best cognacs under $50 that are sure to satisfy your taste buds without breaking the bank.
Cognac is a type of brandy that is produced in the Cognac region of France. It is made from distilled wine and aged in oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and complex flavor profile. While some cognacs can be quite expensive, there are many great options available at a more affordable price point. Whether you prefer a fruity VSOP or a rich XO, there is a cognac on this list that is sure to suit your tastes. So, without further ado, let’s dive into the eight best cognacs under $50!
Types of Cognac
Cognac is classified based on the age of the youngest eau-de-vie (the clear, colorless fruit brandy that is distilled from wine) in the blend. The four main types of cognac are:
- VS (Very Special): Aged for at least two years
- VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): Aged for at least four years
- XO (Extra Old): Aged for at least six years
- Hors d’age (Beyond Age): Aged for at least ten years
The Best Cognacs Under $50
If you’re looking for a delicious cognac that won’t break the bank, you’re in luck. There are plenty of options available for under $50 that offer great value for money. Here are some of the best cognacs under $50 that you can try:
Martell VS is a classic cognac that is perfect for mixing in cocktails or sipping on its own. It has a smooth and fruity taste with notes of vanilla and caramel. It’s a great choice for anyone who wants to try a quality cognac without spending too much money.
Price Range: $30-$40 for a standard 750ml bottle
Courvoisier VS is another excellent choice for anyone looking for a great cognac under $50. It has a rich and complex flavor with notes of oak, vanilla, and spice. It’s perfect for sipping neat or mixing in cocktails.
Price Range: $25-$40 for a standard 750ml bottle
Rémy Martin VSOP is a smooth and flavorful cognac that is perfect for anyone who wants to try a more premium option without breaking the bank. It has a rich and complex taste with notes of fruit, oak, and spice. It’s a great choice for sipping on its own or mixing in cocktails.
Price Range: $50-$70 for a standard 750ml bottle
Hine Rare VSOP is a high-quality cognac that is perfect for anyone who wants to try something a little more unique. It has a rich and complex flavor with notes of dried fruit, honey, and spice. It’s a great choice for sipping on its own or mixing in cocktails.
Price Range: $50-$80 for a standard 750ml bottle
Paul Beau VSOP is a smooth and flavorful cognac that is perfect for anyone who wants to try a high-quality option without breaking the bank. It has a rich and complex taste with notes of fruit, oak, and spice. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing in cocktails.
Price Range: $50-$70 for a standard 750ml bottle
Pierre Ferrand 1840 Original Formula is a unique and flavorful cognac that is perfect for anyone who wants to try something a little different. It has a rich and complex flavor with notes of fruit, vanilla, and spice. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing in cocktails.
Price Range: $40-$70 for a standard 750ml bottle
Vigier-Latour VSOP is a classic cognac that is perfect for anyone who wants to try a quality option without breaking the bank. It has a smooth and fruity taste with notes of vanilla and caramel. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing in cocktails.
Price Range: $50-$70 for a standard 750ml bottle
La Fayette VSOP is a smooth and flavorful cognac that is perfect for anyone who wants to try a high-quality option without spending too much money. It has a rich and complex taste with notes of fruit, oak, and spice. It’s perfect for sipping on its own or mixing in cocktails.
There you have it, some of the best cognacs under $50 that you can try. Whether you’re looking for a classic option or something a little more unique, there’s something for everyone on this list. So go ahead and indulge in some delicious cognac without breaking the bank!
Price Range: $30-$70 for a standard 750ml bottle
Cognac Tasting Guide
How to Taste Cognac
Tasting cognac is an experience that should be savored and enjoyed. Follow these simple steps to ensure you get the most out of your tasting experience:
- Pour a small amount of cognac into a tulip-shaped glass. This will allow the aromas to be concentrated and enhance the tasting experience.
- Hold the glass by the stem to avoid warming the cognac with your hand.
- Take a small sniff of the cognac, allowing the aromas to fill your senses.
- Take a small sip and hold it in your mouth for a few seconds before swallowing.
- Pay attention to the flavors and aromas that you detect.
Serving Suggestions
Cognac can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, depending on your preference. Here are a few serving suggestions to consider:
- Neat: Sip cognac on its own to fully appreciate its flavors and aromas.
- Sidecar: Mix cognac with lemon juice and triple sec for a classic cocktail.
- Tonic: Mix cognac with tonic water and a slice of citrus for a refreshing drink.
- Cola: Mix cognac with cola for a simple yet satisfying cocktail.
- Ginger Ale: Mix cognac with ginger ale for a spicy twist.
- Sazerac: Mix cognac with absinthe, sugar, and bitters for a classic New Orleans cocktail.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have made it to the end of our list of the eight best cognacs under $50. We hope that this article has been helpful in expanding your liquor cabinet without breaking the bank.
As you can see, there are many great options available that won’t cost you a fortune. From fruity to woody, there is a cognac for every taste preference. Whether you prefer to sip it neat or mix it into a cocktail, you can find a quality cognac under $50 that will satisfy your palate.
Remember to always drink responsibly and in moderation. Cognac is a spirit that should be enjoyed slowly and savored, not chugged or consumed quickly.
If you have any other suggestions or recommendations for great cognacs under $50, feel free to share them with us in the comments section below. We are always on the lookout for new and exciting options to add to our list.
Thank you for reading, and cheers to finding the perfect cognac for your taste and budget!