Cognac and brandy

Cognac and brandy are often confused, although there is a simple rule to follow: any cognac is a brandy, but not every brandy is entitled to be called cognac. Brandy is a vast family of spirits produced by distilling grape wine or fruit mash. Cognac, however, is its principal French relative from the Charente region, with a strictly protected designation of origin. It is made using a centuries-old method and aged exclusively in Limousin oak barrels. 

At the Benket online shop, we have curated a range that honestly represents both categories: from smooth European brandies for everyday enjoyment to complex French releases for special occasions. We invite you to explore the key features of selecting this drink.

Types and ageing categories: what the letters on the label mean

The key factor that determines a spirit’s final character, finish and status is its ageing in oak. It is the wood that imparts its noble colour and tannins to the spirits, creating a unique aroma with distinctive notes. A single international system is used to classify French cognacs and most European brandies:

• VS (Very Special). The youngest category. The minimum ageing period for spirits in the cask is 2 years. Such a drink has a lively, slightly bold character with pronounced fruity tones and is excellent both for drinking on its own with ice and as a base for cocktails.
• VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale). A more mature and balanced variant. The spirits are aged in oak for at least four years. The flavour becomes noticeably smoother and rounder, with deep woody notes, hints of dark chocolate, figs and spices coming to the fore in the bouquet. 
• XO (Extra Old). The elite and pride of the category. The minimum ageing period for spirits in barrels, according to modern standards, is 10 years. These are complex, meditative masterpieces with a dark amber colour, an endless velvety finish and a multi-layered bouquet, revealing notes of old oak, cigar tobacco and walnut.

Our range includes spirits of all ages. We offer everything from affordable young brandies to rare premium bottles that have spent over a quarter of a century in oak barrels. 

How to choose brandy or cognac: a guide for buyers

If you’re looking for an easy-drinking spirit for a friendly get-together, a high-quality grape brandy from trusted European producers is a good choice. It will delight you with its smoothness, fruity profile and more affordable price tag. If, however, your aim is to give a prestigious gift to a business partner or to add to your personal home bar, it is worth ordering an authentic French cognac in the VSOP or XO category.

At Benket, we work exclusively with official brands, so every bottle on our shelves is 100% genuine. At the same time, our prices remain fair and transparent, with no hidden mark-ups from middlemen.

The culture of consumption: how to unlock the drink’s true potential

The culture of cognac consumption does not tolerate fuss or haste. It is a classic digestif, created to bring a hearty meal to a beautiful close and to accompany a leisurely evening conversation.

The drink is served at room temperature (around 18–20 °C) in special glasses — spherical snifters or slender tulip-shaped glasses, which concentrate the aromatic notes much better . Quality spirits are sipped in tiny sips, literally drop by drop, as you observe their evolution in the glass.

The classic accompaniment is the tried-and-tested French rule of the three ‘Cs’: Café, Cigaro, Chocolat (strong coffee, a good cigar and dark chocolate). This fine spirit also pairs perfectly with mature hard cheeses, meat pâtés or a ripe pear. However, lemon, popular in some countries, is best left for tea — its sharp, aggressive acidity completely destroys the delicate bouquet and burns the taste buds.

Why you should place an order with the Benket online shop

We have created the most convenient and reliable service for those who appreciate fine spirits. Our catalogue always provides up-to-date stock availability, fair prices and detailed information about every product. We pack every glass bottle with care and securely, ensuring no damage occurs in transit, and arrange prompt delivery throughout Odessa and across Ukraine. Trust the professionals, avoid counterfeits and discover a wealth of flavours with the Benket online shop.