Rémy Martin V.S.O.P

The brandy category is extremely diverse. The term applies to really any spirit that’s been distilled from fermented fruit juice, and there are different expressions all over the world. Rémy Martin VSOP is technically a brandy since it’s made from grapes. However, it’s an elevated style of brandy called cognac (a too-often forgotten spirit that you might find in the back of your grandparent's liquor cabinet). In order to be classified as a cognac, French law mandates that the liquor is 1) produced in France’s Cognac region, 2)crafted with only specific white grapes, 3) double-distilled, and 4) aged for at least two years in French oak barrels.

Alongside a delicate dessert, Rémy Martin VSOP is typically served neat in a snifter or other tulip-shaped glass (you want to select a vessel with enough room for swirling the liquor and releasing its distinct aromas). Also, there are some tasty ingredients that work well when mixed with this lauded cognac. One particular treat, the Highball, is a refreshing yet spicy cocktail that features Rémy Martin VSOP, ginger ale, ice, and an orange twist. Generally, ginger and citrus ingredients work well with any cocktail made with Rémy Martin VSOP.

Rémy Martin VSOP is the brand’s signature product and an excellent stepping stone to the cognac world; this well-balanced liquor is versatile, smooth, and delivers sweeter flavors like vanilla, dried stone fruits, and pear. Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal is aged longer in French oak barrels (making it much more expensive than the VSOP) — the aging process lends to the product’s deeper flavors with notes of toasted bread, dark chocolate, toffee, and spice. Rémy Martin makes a few different cognac expressions, and each offers its own unique tasting experience; nonetheless, no matter which style you prefer, you’re guaranteed a curated, top-tier cognac.

Whether you’re shopping for a cognac connoisseur or someone similar in the world of such fine spirits, you can’t go wrong with a bottle of Rémy Martin VSOP. This is a highly respected brand, and you can be sure that you’re gifting a quality product. The Rémy Martin VSOP, in particular, is a highly versatile cognac, which allows the lucky recipient some flexibility in how they’d prefer to enjoy it — it’s excellent by itself but also adds an extra ‘je ne sais quoi’ to popular cocktail recipes.