Armagnac vs Cognac (Plus, How Does Brandy Compare?)

Cognac and Armagnac are two popular French spirits that often get lumped together, but they’re far from the same. So, is Cognac a brandy? How does Armagnac compare to it?

In this Armagnac vs Cognac guide, we break down exactly what sets them apart. From how they’re made to how they taste, this article will help you understand the key differences and choose the right bottle for your next drink.

We’ll also explore the Cognac vs brandy debate before getting into greater detail about production methods, flavor profiles, and backgrounds.

What Is Brandy?

Brandy is a bold, fruity delight made by distilling fermented fruit juice. While grapes are the go-to, you'll also find incredible brandies made from apples, pears, and other sweet fruits. If it’s fruit-based and distilled, you’re holding a bottle of brandy.

Is Cognac a Brandy?

Is Cognac considered a brandy? The answer is yes! Cognac comes from wine made from specific grape varieties distilled in copper pot stills.

But Cognac isn’t just any brandy, as you’ll find out in the next few sections.

Cognac vs Brandy: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to Cognac vs brandy, the battle is all about where they come from and what goes into creating them.

While anyone can technically make brandy anywhere in the world, the production of Cognac is limited to a specific geographic area. Makers must produce Cognac in the Cognac region of France, just like Champagne can only come from its namesake region in the country.

You’ll find different styles of brandy throughout the world, each one with its own flavor and unique identity. There are apple-based Calvados in Normandy, local grape-centric Spanish Brandy, and pomace-made Italian Grappa.

But today, we’re zeroing in on France’s famous wine-based duo: Armagnac and Cognac.

Armagnac vs Cognac: The French-Based Duo

If Cognac is Beyonce, then Armagnac is her underrated but equally talented sister, Solange. Both these drinks are French grape-based brandies, but they each bring their own personality and kick to the party.

Fascinatingly enough, Armagnac has been around for about 200 years longer than Cognac! So why is it less famous? We believe it’s mostly because the region of Armagnac didn’t have easy river and sea access in the olden times, making it much more difficult for English and Dutch merchants to get their hands on it.

What Are the Key Ingredients?

Cognac is almost always made from a grape variety called Ugni Blanc or Trebbiano. Armagnac also uses Ugni Blanc, but it uses a few other white grape varieties as well. This experimentation gives it a broader flavor profile in comparison.

How Are Cognac and Armagnac Made?

Cognac is double-distilled in copper pot stills for a sophisticated and smooth finish. On the other hand, Armagnac is usually distilled only once using a column still called an Alembic Armagnacais.

This results in a bolder and more rustic taste. Some Armagnac producers do double-distill it just like Cognac.

What About Their Aging Process?

Both these spirits age in oak barrels. Experts use Limousin or Troncais for Cognac (the former occasionally for Armagnac as well), and traditionally black oak for Armagnac.

Because of the previously mentioned distillation method, Armagnac is often aged longer, sometimes for ten years or more. This adds to the complex nature and layered flavor profile of the drink.

How to Pair Cognac With Food?

French cuisine often uses Cognac to flame sweet and savory dishes like Crêpes Suzette. However, Cognac is much more versatile than a culinary heating device. When it comes to Cognac food pairing, you can add it to your daily recipes for that extra kick, such as in pates, nutty desserts, and hearty stews.

Armagnac vs Cognac: Which One Should You Choose?

That depends on your taste entirely! You can go for Cognac if you’re craving something floral or elegant, or try Armagnac if you want a bolder, more layered, and spicy experience. We love mixing up Cognac in classic cocktails like the Sazerac, Old Fashioned, the Manhattan, a Mint Julep or even a Mojito for that extra kick!

When it comes down to Armagnac vs Cognac, or even Cognac vs brandy, the choice really depends on what you're after in a drink. Whether you prefer the refined, smooth profile of Cognac or the deeper, richer notes of Armagnac, both offer unique, satisfying experiences for any occasion.

By the way, for the true lovers of the spirit, Flaviar offers Cognac-themed subscription boxes with hard-to-find brands, perfect for those wanting to explore beyond the basics.