Brandy from Cognac

  Never did I expect to find an inexpensive brandy with the finesse of one from Cognac. But it happened! Happily, I now have not one but two such brandies that are aromatically inviting, rich in flavor and with the delicacy and nuance associated with more expensive brandy from Cognac, France.

These two luscious brandies are from A. de Fussigny, a venerable old Cognac producer in Charente, France, under the label of Symbole National.   The rich XO (very old) is a lush, golden hued brandy with pronounced caramel and almond flavors.  As it “breathes” pleasant hints of floral appear on the nose. The finish is long and clean without the usual unpleasant after-bight, normally found in less expensive brandies and Cognacs. It is rare to find a brandy of this quality selling $12.99 let alone one from Cognac.  The Symbole Nationale VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) is pale and dry, nuanced with floral and honey spices. The finish is long, clean and surprisingly smooth.  Somewhat less sophisticated than the XO it is an easy drinking pale brandy for only $7.49 a bottle! 

Cognac, as most know, is a brandy produced in the towns surrounding the village of Cognac, France.  To earn the distinction of the Cognac AOC (Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée) the “brandy” must adhere to certain strict standards such as the use of specific grapes, distillation method and fermentation process. The Symbole Nationale XO and VSOP are the end result of the brandy making skill of a fine Cognac producer making two sophisticated brandies, not in accordance with the strict Cognac AOC regulations.  Both the XO and VSOP are elegant brandies that would cost much more with the Cognac AOC designation.

At times it is difficult to choose which one I prefer more.  Much depends on the taste sensation I am seeking.  If it is a rich, silky smooth finish then it is the XO.  When my tastes turn to a lighter, drier style then I reach for my bottle of VSOP after dinner or anytime the spirit (no pun intended) moves me. Either selection rewards my palate with a brandy of style and grace and one that I can afford to enjoy as often as I wish.