What is the difference between Cognac, Armagnac, and Brandy?
The best brandies are those from the officially delimited regions of Cognac and Armagnac in France, and Jerez in Spain. Just like most other products in the world, the more unique the origin, the more unique the final product. Think of Grana Padana Parmigiano vs. Kraft Grated Parmesan, or of a wine labelled “California” vs. a wine labelled “Carneros” for example. American brandies such as Paul Masson and Korbel, and Mexico’s Pedro Domecq Presidente represent good value for a straightforward product. Cognac is considered the ultimate brandy, and the best are sublime. Armagnac has a more rustic, fiery personality. Spanish brandies are harder to find, but are worth the search. Look for Brandy de Jerez under various brand names. These bottlings are about half the price of Armagnac and sometimes a fraction of the cost of Cognac.
