STOP BUYING BIG NAME COGNAC

[@BrianKirby_The1andOnly]

Thank you for this very informative video, Rob! We need to continue to call out those who take short-cuts and reward those who actually do things the right way.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

I agree Brian. Thanks for watching brother.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

I went to one of my favorite stores, and picked a 18 year Armenyac, Diamond 💎 couldn't find A review ,Still bought it . Today got a Brandy from Spain.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

Stay tuned for a review 🧐

[@RomainRiviere]

Great rant. I'm French and was born not too far from the Cognac region and I wish this video could get to the owners of these big distilleries you mentioned. I'm glad new consumers aren't ready to accept piss as long as it is poured from a fancy bottle.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

There’s so many artisanal brands that I wish I could get my hands on. It’s scary that the people doing it the right way are in the shadows. Seems to be the theme of the entire world right now.

[@RomainRiviere]

@@WhiskyInThe6 right on Rob!

[@silvermediastudio]

They make too much money selling a fake luxury product to a certain demographic.

[@gatdellobregat]

Hi, Rob! I'm 100% with you in not wasting one's hard earned money on low quality spirits (whisky, cognac, etc.). As for the Armagnac side, I'm currently enjoying a 12yo single cask double matured (Lustau-Oloroso) Bas-Armagnac from Maison Gelas. Bottled at 54,3 %abv, it'll sure give every older whisky a good run for the money. By the way, I paid a tad less than 60 euros for it and it's worth every penny! Cheers from Romania!🥃

[@richard7673]

since you live in Romania, how well of a selection do you guys ever get of like American whisky such as bourbons or such?

[@riheg]

Its mind blowing how good cognac you can get for a tiny fraction of the cost of standard big name XO bottles for instance. I got a Cadenheads cask strength once, and I was actually surprised by how good it was. I really think cognacs should be above 40% and certainly no chill filtration after that experience.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

100%

[@thenightstalker6165]

False

[@CelticsRepeat2025]

I hate that it’s 40% abv. I am a proof hound. Cognac is very good though

[@kaanozsener7836]

Hectic video man. You've made me really branch out and find real vintage cognac brands like FRAPIN, Raymond ragnaud that are aged 25+ years around similar cost of the big brands man. Thanks for being so informative man!!

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Cheers buddy

[@welshtoro3256]

Rob, WTF are you doing telling the plebs not to buy regular stuff? It's our little secret to know what great Cognac and Armagnac is. The best stuff can be great from 10 years. Stick to the Springbank 21 stuff which is already stellar priced and going up with every review. Cheers. WT

[@WhiskyInThe6]

😂😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@thenightstalker6165]

False

[@DamirHadzic-d4q]

Wow!! You must be special. 😂😂😂 Just another snob.

[@mrcat3493]

Fear not, I work part time at a liquor store and when i try to recommend a brand like Ferrand or Park for people to try, they still reach for Hennessy due to the name recognition.

[@THISISLolesh]

@@mrcat3493 Ever considered they might just like Henny?

[@hplovemalt2448]

I’ve been wanting to get into higher end Cognacs beyond what big brands are out there, and this video definitely inspired me to keep looking. Armagnacs as well, I’ve heard Jolllite is really good but I’ll have to do the research first!

[@anthonybirdsong1047]

Jolitte is Great!! Smooth

[@rockermork]

Another great video Rob! I just tasted my first cognac recently - A de Fussigny XO. I really enjoy it and at $99 it’s a fair price too. I’m going to try Courvoisier next.

[@E.RHYMES]

Courvoisier is cheaper than Hennessey and its very smooth.

[@nauldipset9755]

Its$129 now at total wine😭

[@SpeezyOTB]

stumbled upon your channel and right out the gate this was mad informative. I’ve had a similar experience with Hennessy, one day I had a bottle and it just tasted funny. I chalked it up to maybe it wasn’t made properly but then it happened a few more times. Point is I subscribed.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thanks buddy. It is sad the quality decline that has happened with Hennessy.

[@martincaravati9417]

Appreciate the “malternatve” review! I plan to explore more Rum and Brandy/Cognac this year as an alternative to over-priced malts.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

There are some real gems out there for sure

[@Erazus4]

I totally agree with you on this Rob. Great video! Armagnac is so much better in terms of value for money. A retailer here in Denmark told me that every time he sells an Armagnac, he sells 11 Cognacs, which gives an idea of the supply and demand relationship. People just frown when you mention Armagnac and its a shame because you often get so much further with the same amount of money spent.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Ya it’s really sad. Armagnac just does have the prestige around the name. People are oblivious to how good they can actually be.

[@thenightstalker6165]

If you want garbage instead of good buy your cheap crap that's not a good drunk and not smooth at all in comparison

[@maltreviews]

One the very best names in cognac. Happy to see you trying this.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

It’s unreal.

[@welshtoro3256]

Hi lads, did you ever get any of the Domaine de Boignere I recommended a couple of years ago? A great producer.

[@maltreviews]

@@welshtoro3256 I don't think so. Most good cognacs we have to get from overseas which makes it even harder to acquire but will keep a look out.

[@markhanson6914]

yes they are, I have this, the lot 70,71 and the hors de age. All are excepional with the 70 the best of the bunch. Bertrand and audry are a couple of houses that very few know about but produce top quality at very fair prices.

[@travisloewen6191]

I'm a whiskey guy with a wine friend and we've been discussing meeting in the middle with Brandy. Trouble is neither of us know where to start other than the big names. Love the video and would definitely appreciate some brandy videos in the future. Cheers!

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thanks Travis. I’ll be hunting some down for sure.

[@YaoEspirito]

Raynal is a good, low-priced brandy.

[@steveno7058]

If you want natural presentation in Brandy try Copper and Kings American Brandy. They are young but the label states no added color, sweetners, or boise. Got one that is finished in Stout Barrels at cask strength for $45.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Need to track that down.

[@alexk3088]

Fair dues, they are ncf and high strength. I tried several from a few years ago and honestly they are not sippable. Cocktail fodder or cooking. At best. That goes for Apple and grape brandy, aged and unaged.

[@steveno7058]

@@alexk3088 huh? They are definitely sippable. Treat them like high proof Bourbon. Have something lighter first. They ain’t any more harsh than things like Rare Breed. The beer finished ones are great. Of course the unaged version is for mixing

[@alexk3088]

@@steveno7058 mine are from a few years ago. I live and breathe cask/barrel strength bourbon, rye, malt. I don't enjoy "smooth" spirits, preferring interesting and even difficult ones. But the examples I bought are really harsh and have been demoted to cooking duty. It's possible that they released more mature versions since then.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

Steven O thank you for spreading that, I had no idea of Cooper & Kings !

[@snagatep]

Rob, thank you for uploading this video! I just got into Brandy and was looking for a video like this.

[@brunoxxmartins]

I must say that I've learned so many things about cognac with your video. Also, congratulations about your Dark Matter "advertising", which is an amazing book. Keep doing the good work.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Awesome book and Author. Cheers buddy, glad I could help.

[@MatthewSmith-cp3hu]

i would like to buy knowing exactly how much sugar is in it and should also be able to see the additives

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Should be stated on the bottle.

[@วริศนันทสุทธิเลิศวรกุล]

For the 1st time ever haveI I just acknowledged these information Thanks a lot

[@fredsmith3001]

Another artisanal Cognac house to look for is Daniel Bouju. Their Royal at 120 proof is mind blowing. More like a rum than a traditional Cognac. They also have a Tres Vieux Brut de Fut which is reputed to be 40+ years old and bottled at 100 proof cask strength. They aren't widely available in the US but can be ordered from a number of online retailers in Europe.

[@naished]

Is it possible to get additive free for a bottle closer to $100?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Pretty sure they exist. Just not sure what.

[@GeorgeTropicana]

If I can't drink whiskey straight, is it likely to be the same with brandy/cognac?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Might be a bit easier

[@GregsWhiskyGuide]

Hi Rob, I can only second you on this, as, in my own experience (& as a French, for those here who don't know me), I have to agree with you on the value question, for those I have tried (still a lot to try, mind you, especially those expensive big names high end stuff...not easy to try as they're expensive & not poured in the shows where I go), those "big names" ask too much money for what is alas (& by French regulations too, unfortunately) too often not only chill filtered, but also sugar added & E150a & wood essence (oil of wood, if you prefer) added &...most of the reduced to a rather castrating 40 % abv...A slight reservation, though, some "big names" expressions still achieve to be interesting, mind you, in my point of view, for instance Martell with their "Cordon Bleu" (I'm speaking about it in one of my videos about "15 exceptional whiskies & alternatives"). I'm preparing a series of videos & live shows later on about Cognac, having recently decided to explore more of it & of Armagnac (great tip value wise you gave your audience, I agree too & got stunning examples home)...but...as I had the chance to visit the Vallein Tercinier family owned domain in 2013, I can tell how stunning some of their expressions are...I still have some rare samples to try from them, 2 bottles and I recently bought their "VT 46" /"Small Batch'", which I recommend to you....I will also recommend some other brands, and some independent bottlers as well, some of them maturing or re-maturing/re-casking spirit in their own warehouses...(I visit one too) with most natural process as possible such as Grosperrin (except for some export & entry level range, everything is small batch unchilfiltered, no additives, and cask strength or batch strength...I had the chance to even blend with the owner's son, Guilhem, some 30 to 40 yo stuff & have the result home !). I haven't tasted your bottle though, but a 1969 one called" The Erotic" (yes it is, buddy !) and one called "Combination 49" (still have a sample of it) mixing casks from 1922 & 1949....The oldest Cognac I tried so far you can see it on my website, it is a 1820 vintage (but of course not bottled 200 years after, cant be...I'll explain that soon...). Cheers & keep on buying & preaching for good stuff ! 👍

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thanks for the comment Greg. Appreciate that. How close are you to the region of Cognac?

[@GregsWhiskyGuide]

@@WhiskyInThe6 You"re welcome, Rob....ouh probably 500 km or so ! (and I don't have a driving license) so not my everyday trip if you see the picture, and now even less (on saturday we'll enter into a 6 pm curfew & soon another lockdown....damned !)

[@richardamiro8266]

Thanks Rob, doing research

[@robertzemko6590]

Out of curiosity does Cognac benefit like Scotch whisky from opening up rather than a neck pour?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

I would assume the natural cask strengths do.

[@claudvenuto]

Love this! Definitely an eye opener! Ive definitely moved on from Cognac!

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Ya it’s sad to think about. I wonder how many ppl would buy cognac knowing this information.

[@ppshchik]

I bought a VT Vieille Reserve because of this video! Can't wait to taste! Hope you guys can make more videos about less known brandies, given that the Big 4 have given cognac a bad rep

[@ppshchik]

@@Bos_roseus I havent opened yet! But Ill let you know once I have!

[@silverfox108]

Great review and I agree with you that the smaller distillers are the way to go on cognac.. Also I something more than 40%... Should all be in the 46 min area now

[@Fedorevsky]

In the liquor stores in Norway they have a whole different category, Cognac Brut, where there are no additives in any of the products. They even test for sugars and mention if any liquor they sell have additives and how many grams per liter, not just Cognac.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

This is the way it should be everywhere. Cheers

[@marks1638]

A close friend visited a small vineyard in France back in the 80's in the Cognac Province. I can't name the vineyard/distillery (I was asked not to name them). He brought a bottle of their cognac and brought it home to the US. OMG, it was literally the best cognac I've ever had to this day. You can't buy in it outside France but it's available there in Paris (and major cities). Think vanilla, more dark chocolate, and slightly sweet. The closest I've gotten in 40 years is Costco Kirkland XO cognac (still not the same distillery) but in the same section of Cognac, France (according to my sources). I grew up in France back in the 60's (USAF Dependent at Chateauroux-Delos Air Base in France and have many fond memories. While it wasn't in the Cognac area, it was close by (a few miles to the West of us) and the whole area had great wine (our residence outside the base was literally in a vineyard). Good Cognac reminds me of my childhood in France.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Something special about a well aged cognac.

[@baffledsquirrel2122]

I bought a henny xo just to try it and to add to the collection but I’m definitely trying to find a cheaper one to drink more regularly

[@344shadowking]

Was it worth the buy? I'm thinking to get a bottle myself

[@StingLatvia]

@@344shadowking it's really great, overpriced, but great. You are paying for the history as well. There are better and a bit cheaper XO cognacs on the market then the "big 4", but it's Hennessy that gave the name XO back in the 1800th, so you must try it anyway to figure out later what other cognacs are better or worse...

[@ADSCP]

What about brandy wich is not cognac, what would you say?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Majority of the regulars on shelf have additives.

[@ADSCP]

@@WhiskyInThe6 I think I’ll have to look more into Armagnac then.

[@ryanparker4775]

Been waiting for the alarm to go off with that time ticking sound going on

[@WhiskyInThe6]

🤷🏻‍♂️

[@paavoviuhko7250]

I've heard that Finland is considered the highest importer of cognac in the world per capita. I grew up every Christmas with my parents having a bottle of cognac. It was definitely a deeply held tradition in those days in Finland when I was growing up and I still carry on the same tradition because it doesn't feel like Christmas sitting under the tree without the wafts of cognac sending you into ethereal spaces. But it is not dependent on the material essences that practiced drinkers claim to find but rather on the transcendences based on sensitivities practiced by non material attitudes. Are you with me? In Finland ordinary people cannot afford to spend those exorbitant prices so most are drinking VS level ordinary everyday cognacs and getting to spaces that perhaps the people seeking their materialistic fundamentals will never be able to find because they have been conditioned by a schooling that forbids that kind of primitive access to higher levels of transcendence. What do you think?

[@BobbySanders-bf2fr]

You should do volunteer work.

[@VazzVegas]

Thanks for the info, Rob, I had no idea they were allowed to add so much junk to Cognac. I don't drink it but it's something I'd like to have from time to time in the future. Nice shout out to Armagnac too. I hear it's a much, much better value.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Absolutely better value buddy. Ya it’s sad that they’re allowed to add so much nonsense.

[@Adrian802]

Armagnac is more inland so it has a disadvantage of export. It's history is older than Cognac and distilled only once using a column still. The production of Armagnac is Artisan as the scale of most houses are miniscule.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

Adrian 812 Great point ! I took a liking to rums, but I am realizing that the more complex flavors, are in brandy / Armenyac. For me it's about the staying to the oldest origins,and purity.

[@kuklux6066]

What about JEREZ brandies from Spain? 🤔 Is it safe to buy them?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Never tried any but would assume they’re good.

[@Playsinvain]

Is it possible that what I’ve been looking for from single malt, is hiding in plane sight with cognac..

[@WhiskyInThe6]

If you find a good cask strength one it is possible. Cognacs tend to be a touch hotter.

[@richie-lj9dm]

do you know where i can still find this bottle? there are many bottles that look different i do not want to buy a fake.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

This edition is sold out but anything from Valline Tercinier would work

[@darkoanton5]

Excellent video, Rob. The more experience I get with spirits the more tired I get of all the bull shit and fakery.

[@briannienhaus6109]

Here's the tricky part. I'm all for holding distillers and producers accountable. But, even in your video, you hinted at the problem. The producer doesn't have to tell you if boise is added, if sugar is added, so in reality, even if we can make an educated guess based on experience, we just don't know. So I'm on board with your idea. My point is, the push needs to be for specific labelling guidelines that highlight all three additives on the bottle itself.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Ya labelling will definitely help. Probably won’t happen. Laws have to change.

[@heatontom1]

Hi Rob, thank you very much for pointing out these inside info and sharing this bottle with us! Btw, what happens at 6:37? It sounds something broke!!!!!!! Initially I thought sth in my room broke.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Damn yeah. I noticed that too. I think it has something to do with the number that pops up. Maybe an effect or something. My apologies.

[@thesilentdiva]

Boise is like Liquid Smoke, for when u don't feel like grilling etc

[@alexk3088]

I agree with the title of this video (and I've been saying this for years). But my point was always that you can find artisan cognacs for LESS than the mainstream XO. There are cheaper XO expressions from single farms (single vineyard), there are single grape, single cru, single barrel cognacs, some of them are not chill filtered, without additives, higher abv, etc. Or how about "single oak" (specific oak species)? Cognac Park is not afraid to bottle and bring to market "lesser" crus (like Borderies, Fins Bois, etc.). Why wouldn't anoraks want to try that? That's "single malts" of cognac! Maybe we can let our own noses and palates decide which crus we like best. Maybe Grande Champagne just produces more yield vs. being "the best"? (I'm not asserting that, just saying). I think we live in a time when more and more people are starting to understand that anything "mainstream" being spoon-fed to them is not necessarily the end-all-be-all.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

Amazing interpretation ALEX K Very on point..

[@peterock8217]

Great information, now all I need is the name of that bottle??? Thanks

[@jodyschultz5870]

I'm a Hennessy XO guy so this was interesting. Seems maybe a bit out of my price range but I am interested. I like the purity, natural aspect. Maybe I will treat myself. Thanks.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

There are younger cheaper versions.

[@Bayshore958]

Well that was quite a good lesson. Thanks for helping to set us straight Rob.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

My pleasure Stuart. Hope it helps.

[@j.r.lalancette4588]

Awesome review Rob! Cognacs and Armagnacs do indeed tend to lose more ABV in the cask because of the climate, but also because they are distilled to a less strength than whisky before being put in cask. For a really artisanal product, give Armagnac a go - it's single distilled and more characterful. But also much cheaper! Your friends in Alberta will be able to source some Armagnacs from the indie bottler Darroze. They are outstanding.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

I’ve had some great Armagnac. I’ll check that one out for sure. Thank you. Cheers!

[@mrcat3493]

Those are interesting nose notes you described. Sounds similar to a bourbon. Most cognacs I’ve tried are heavy fruit with some baking spice.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

True

[@steveno7058]

Great video! Agree 100%. I unfortunately bought a bottle of Hennessy XO a couple years ago and it ain't worth close to $180. Got wiser and now buy 25 year old Armagnac for $65.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Insane how Armagnac is so well priced.

[@farklestaxbaum4945]

I have never heard of Armagnac I will be looking for it now.

[@brianpage6932]

Have you tried Damblat 10 year? It's under 75$ and very tasty It's classified as an "Armagnac " basically a single distilled Cognac, just supports your point that you can get a great tasting spirit for less then some of the big name ones, I noticed you briefly mentioned the Armagnac category in this video

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Have not

[@nycstogiedee8830]

Wow I may be able to get that here .. mmmm. Thanks for The good Information !!

[@lars2894]

What would you say is the best under US$30 brandy for absolute beginners on a budget?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

There’s an American brandy I can’t recall the name. Probably loaded with additives but pretty tasty for under $30 E&J? Something like that

[@Ninjamlm]

Raynal and St Remy. Both French.

[@JimmyViolet19K]

Damn I’m glad I watched this.. thanks for sharing your knowledge

[@deltawhiskey6417]

What do you recommend in the $100 CAD range?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Unfortunately in this category there isn’t much I can think of at that price or less.

[@wilseph1]

That Delamain joint a couple years ago at the LCBO was nice. Reasonably priced (by LCBO standards) as well.

[@etangbose4755]

Hello fellow Ontarian

[@ADSCP]

What do you think about Martell? Bought a VS bottle just to get into cognac.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

I like it. However I decided not to review it on this channel because I don’t love the practices of some of these cognac companies.

[@snagatep]

My 1st cognac also. I like it. But after watching this video. Id like to find some REAL cognac

[@GhostGazcoyn]

I learned a lot man... gotta track down some good Armagnacs!

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Some really old ones for crazy cheap.

[@francescoalbanese9215]

Where did you buy this gem?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Alberta

[@redwithblackstripes]

My relatives live near Chermignac,you should try their Pineau too if you are able to get your hands on it.There is a whole world of French Fortified wines not many non French liqueur enthusiast know about that are really nice to drink,the big brands are for export, we tend to keep the good stuff hidden for ourselves :p.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Very smart strategy

[@ppshchik]

Do you mean pineau des charentes?

[@MishaTal1]

Artisanal Cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados is amazing!!! L'Encatada will capture any whisky lovers heart.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Will have a look

[@MishaTal1]

@@WhiskyInThe6 L' Encantada**

[@Addict2FX]

Where did you get your added sugar facts?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Any German bottle will disclose all the information.

[@matthiasthym7431]

I recommend Jean FIllioux, François Voyer & Chateau de Beaulon

[@Curlyfriesdelicious]

What would you rate E&J Brandy??

[@WhiskyInThe6]

It’s likely there’s a heavy amount of added sugar but I don’t mind it.

[@mohavie2360]

great review.. gotta question, ive tried looking up if a cognac had additives added and i cannot for the life of me, find any of these info upon research of any of these cognacs. maybe im not looking in the right places but how do u find ur infos? thanks

[@WhiskyInThe6]

If you email the distilleries their response will be very telling. The ones that say they don’t add likely just don’t add.

[@SteelyAlphaDaddy]

A De Fussigny is absolutely amazing but unfortunately their VS has went from being very fairly priced to being more expensive than almost all of the others, due to the popularity they gained for being an exceptional value. Now you don’t even hear about them hardly.

[@TriniDaChief]

I like your presentation style. Good job

[@theseeker3771]

To be honest, thinking about the amount of pesticides used in grape growing, I would be wary of drinking too much cognac since the pesticide residue is likely to be much more concentrated.... I always get bad headaches the next morning after drinking cognac, I think this is why.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Very good point.

[@theseeker3771]

Thanks. When I drink whisky I get no hangover at all... even compared to beer and wine.... Whisky really is one of the purest most refined (I won't say healthy as such) alcohol products out there...@@WhiskyInThe6

[@ironmantran]

Agreed. The same applies to Armagnacs, but to a much lesser extent, since most are distilled but once. I switched to small house Armagnacs some 20 years ago... good vid.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thanks buddy. Ya same applies just way better value.

[@alexk3088]

I wholeheartedly recommend Armagnac, but just wanted to point out that "once distilled" is a misnomer due to continuous column distillation. I've even heard people ascribe to Armagnac things like distillation defects associated with non-professional distillation (feints, fusels, tails, etc.), again because of the supposed single distillation. In reality column distillate is cleaner than pot still. And both are safe and high quality when done right.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

As a former home brew competitor, I am very intrigued about the details of the process . The history too, makes me happy to learn more .

[@KTB-Bourbon]

I freakin love Delamain cognac.

[@dorsettwilson683]

That's was good info on the artificial additives thank you so much.🤯🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥👊🏾

[@pokeround]

Good and informative video! I wasn't aware at all that sugar and boise (pronounced 'bwaZAY' I think) were permitted additives. Delighted that you featured a VT cognac as my latest is their 1989 grande champagne cask strength which is tremendously good and, I hope, lacking all these added nasties.

[@joeprestera2239]

I wonder if they are doing the same with Brandy?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

100%

[@simonc4764]

The big four cognac producer do make the best brandy but you have to be prepared to spend a thousand or more something in their Extra and higher category.

[@pat72396]

What are your thoughts on tesseron cognac

[@WhiskyInThe6]

From what I tasted, I enjoyed them but I don’t know if they add anything.

[@apudegeest]

If you want to know the details of the spirit im sure they will tell you if you ask them. I asked for a tour while passing them in cognac, got a private tour. Family owned businesses, small operation. Very friendly people.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

You may be right apu.

[@gopenduchatterjee5246]

Very informative video- - I think everybody must try low price Camus vs elegance. It's good for value.🙏

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thank you. Cheers

[@alexandrealmeida6366]

Im not a big cognac drinker but my family has a sazarin family cognac or something like that any good ?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

It sounds interesting. Never heard of it. What’s the alcohol percentage?

[@alexandrealmeida6366]

@@WhiskyInThe6 its only 40%, never seen it on a shelf it was brought back from a family menber that went to france

[@WhiskyInThe6]

@@alexandrealmeida6366 ah cool.

[@expatinbrazil]

Try the Romanian cognac! Brâncoveanu, Zarea ,Murfatlar! You will not be disappointed!

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Will look for it

[@physics2112]

Like or Dislike: Like. In theory I completely agree. It's the same with rum. The problem is availability and price.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Ya. It’s so disappointing when looking at selection in this country. I can imagine some others.

[@marksaliba4194]

Only one thing comes to mind when I see 1967, sadly. Maybe this is our year. Go Leafs and cheers Rob 🥃

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Lol!!! I had a dream years ago of a #97 holding the Stanley Cup for the Leafs.

[@Adrian802]

While people were picking the berries, Leafs were hoisting the Stanley Cup. Time flies.

[@elizabethkrol5538]

Maybe next year.

[@SS-yw7vo]

Isn't 250 Euro about 450-500 CAD?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

About 350

[@GregsWhiskyGuide]

Just a note to let you know I will update (I have to thank you as an unvolontary reminder with this video I forgot to do it) my topic about my journey to Cognac tomorrow, with an important update about Vallein Tercinier (you will see that some references, sorry, are coloured & c.f., but neither this one & all the high end ones though), as I visited them in 2014. I will also very soon update it with other references tasting notes, but for now it will still be only in French (but maybe you can use Googletranslate I guess ? the report is actually super long that's why I cut it to publish it later then I forgot). IF you want, I'll keep you posted on Twitter...Cheers !

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thanks Greg. Sure! Sounds good.

[@GregsWhiskyGuide]

@@WhiskyInThe6 You're welcome, and there you go again I mistaked, it'll be in French only for now, sorry...

[@Houman7]

Lack of proper regulation has really hit cognoc industry hard. Almost everything especially from big brands as you mentioned are full of additives, 40% ABV, no age statement and overpriced. Recently bought both Remy Martin XO and Martell Cordon Bleu and with first sip I felt it tastes artificial as I never experienced that with Scotch or Bourbon. I’ll check out this brand

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Couldn’t agree more.

[@alexk3088]

Nothing to do with regulation. Nobody is regulating Springbank, Arran, Deanston, Bruichladdich and many others to avoid colorant, to bottle at 46% or more and without chill filtering. They do it because they understand market. Regulation leads to the lowest common denominator, i.e. 40% chill filtering and additives (only those "proper", approved additives).

[@Leo-sd3jt]

@@alexk3088 it would be nice if it was required to list what additives are added

[@alexk3088]

@@Leo-sd3jt again, all the distilleries I mentioned and many more explicitly specify not using any additives without being required. Likewise the many Indy bottlers.

[@Leo-sd3jt]

@@alexk3088 yeah but nothing is preventing them from lying about it. It's not against regulations to do so. That's my point. It's completely based on trust and there's no way to know for sure.

[@slumpymonkey1231]

I’m 19 and drink $400 bottles already I’m be an amazing alcoholic

[@michaelthomas3476]

as a cigar smoker I'm looking for a Cognac list.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Valine tercinier has many options and we’ll priced.

[@kachunhoi292]

Your video is really helpful for brandy beginners! Any tips for beginners before buying a cognac or armagnac? Is there any professional website you recommend to look for some reviews before buying? I feel like there's relatively less information when I searched for some cognac reviews compared to wines

[@WhiskyInThe6]

There isn’t much out there unfortunately. I’d say try to buy lessor known cognac that’s age stated and has a higher abv than 40%

[@lorianyang1723]

Hi Rob im also from ontario, is there any recommended website or way to purchase spirit except lcbo?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Many here would suggest purchasing from Alberta like Zyn.ca or craft cellars. I just don’t know the details of legality with that to be honest.

[@oleglishchenko4922]

You're right that artificial chemical cocktail like Hennessy xo isn't worth 350. But I'm not sure I'm ready to pay 500 for "real stuff". Brandy like Raynal vsop is perfectly fine for ~30cad.

[@Nick-mg5xl]

the added color argument of batch consistency is kinda insane to me, unless they are using that as a way of saying 'making it consistently dark'. do you really think anyone would walk into a liquor store and not buy hennessy because it looks a little darker than normal? and anyway, how many bottles of a spirit do you think you'd need to consume to be able to distinguish batch variation in color when these companies are essentially recipe spirit producing?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Totally agree.

[@nycstogiedee8830]

That's how the RUINED MYERS Rum ,IMO .

[@troyb5843]

Totally unrelated to the video, your book selection on that shelf is top tier. Stormlight, Kingkiller, American Gods, ASOIAF

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Similar tastes?

[@troyb5843]

@@WhiskyInThe6 In literature as well as liquor it seems

[@machouilleur33]

Would you recommend others cognacs from the same brand ? The VS Selection, for example ?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Have not tried them. Although if they’re bottled at a higher abv that’s a good sign.

[@Adrian802]

Armagnacs are a steal compare to Cognac. Although it lacks the prestige but they are some of the best kept hidden gems in the alcohol world.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

You’re 100% right

[@paultaylor2055]

Just picked some up, just out of interest Rob, do you like a cigar?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Occasionally yes

[@whiskywatches]

I learned a ton about cognac when I met the owner of Hardy Cognac. After meeting her and tasting some beautiful cognacs I learned that big name brands that say they are selling cognac are literally selling junk. The Hardy Noces d’or contains 50 year old liquid and the Hardy Printemps contains some 100 year old liquid. Then there’s Dudognon Hertiage that has 40 year old liquid and is just beautiful. My latest cognac enjoyment came from a new comer Monfleurie, a true connoisseurs Cognac.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Those all sound delicious. Thanks for sharing.

[@polvacycling]

Hardy VSOP is excellent cognac, I saw their XO is also reasonable priced, will surely buy it.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

@@polvacycling never tried the XO. Would like to.

[@whiskywatches]

@@polvacycling if you see the organic VSOP try that it’s a beautiful pour! Cheers!

[@alexk3088]

It does take a whisky drinker to really seek deep perspective on cognac. Not because of any palate superiority but because it takes a geek to see through the marketing patronizing and grooming their consumers. Hopefully in a few years the cognac scene will be more reminiscent of today's whisky scene, as far as geeks are concerned.

[@ps3inquisition441]

Cognac has been using additives forever, it is what it is.

[@royallstar]

Thank you. I really enjoy your videos. Can you review greek brandy Metaxa 7 or Metaxa 12?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

I’ll try to find it.

[@SippersSocialClub]

Definitely some 'off the radar' good value Cognac and Armagnac's out there. Maybe we'll see a shift from overpriced to whisky to spirits from France

[@WhiskyInThe6]

It may happen. Wish there were more options available here.

[@Sodchucker]

@@WhiskyInThe6 would you or Sippers Social Club be able to recommend some decent stuff at LCBO or SAQ? I picked up a bottle of Domaine Tariquet Bas-Armagnac XO at the LCBO - it seems okay, but I have very limited experience with brandy!

[@daveb6969]

you said all that to say that you still dont know if this cognac uses bosie and sweeteners or not.. which if they dont disclaim, they probably still do.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

I doubt it. The company posted this review after I did.

[@wilseph1]

Rob, you drop French class after grade 9 as well?

[@WhiskyInThe6]

My French teacher told me she’d promise to pass me if I didn’t take it in grade 10. 😂😂😂

[@wilseph1]

@@WhiskyInThe6 Truth hurts!

[@hman9488]

Nice change up Rob!!! Good video.

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Thanks buddy

[@wouterblom7569]

Hi Rob, fully agree with you there. If you want pointers to good Armagnacs and Cognacs for a whisky lover, try Serge Valentin’s website. He knows his stuff! (Edit: nevermind, I just got to the part where you recommend his site yourself....)

[@WhiskyInThe6]

Lol great minds think alike.

[@wouterblom7569]

@@WhiskyInThe6 hahaha 👍 Serge is a great guy, by the way! I like his humour too