The revival of Cognac – it’s no longer an old folks drink

(image: iStock)

When I imagine cognac, I think of my grandma clutching a balloon glass in the lounge after dinner, or a dapper elderly gent doing cigars and cognac at a fireplace. Cognac is certainly classic, but is it cool?

The revival of “old-timey” spirits like gin (which is now the height of hipster chic) has shown us that old hats deserve another look.

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International Rémy Martin brand ambassador, Thierry Arnold, recently paid City Press a visit to introduce us to their VSOP, XO and Accord Royal cognacs.

Rémy Martin is a French company that was founded in 1724, and it’s now one of the biggest cognac producers in the world. Cognac is essentially brandy that was produced in the Cognac region of France.

South Africa has an incredibly proud history of brandy production, and many of our brands – including Oude Meester Demant and Klipdrift Premium – win World’s Best Brandy accolades year after year.

But Arnold told us that, while cognac is brandy, not all brandies can call themselves cognac. Rémy Martin is a cognac, and so those who choose it are going after not only the taste, but the name and image of this drink.

During our tasting, we were all surprised by the pleasant smoothness and sweetness of the drink. You can drink it on its own and without ice, but the VSOP is also great to mix with cocktails that include ginger ale or tonic.

Cognac is no longer just for after dinner – it’s a full-bodied, smooth spirit that you can have if you’re enjoying a night out or having a few cocktails at home with friends. Who knew?

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