Nigerians love their Cognacs just as much as they love Whiskey. However, the prices of Cognacs can vary often, and it’s important to know the right option for you.
Understanding Cognac prices in Nigeria and their characteristics can help you make a better decision when shopping. In this article, we explore the best Cognac brands, their prices, where to buy them, and how to pair them.
Key Takeaways
- Cognac is a premium brandy made in the Cognac region of France, known for its refined oak flavours, whereas brandy is a broader category with a wider range of production methods and taste profiles.
- Hennessy, Martell, and Rémy Martin are top Cognac brands, each offering distinct styles. Hennessy is bold, Rémy Martin is rich and elegant, while Martell offers smoothness and some delicateness.
- Prices for each Cognac brand in Nigeria vary. VS options start at ₦48000, while VSOP starts at ₦83000. Luxury XO bottles are from ₦320000
- Serve Cognac in snifter or tulip glasses, slightly warmed. They are best enjoyed neat, but you can enjoy them on the rocks, with nuts, dark chocolate, or dried fruits for the best experience.
- Order your favourite Cognacs right to your doorstep on LickquorNg. Explore a wide range of Cognacs from Hennessy to Rémy Martin, Martell, etc. There are top picks for different budgets.
What Is Cognac?
Fun Fact: Cognac is a type of brandy, and it’s called ‘Cognac’ because it was made in the Cognac region of southwestern France.
Cognac is produced in a distinct process and differs from other spirits. Cognac is distilled twice in copper pot stills and aged in French oak barrels, usually in Tronçais or Limousin oak.
Certain grapes are also infused to give their unique flavour, such as Colombard, Folle Blanche, and Ugni Blanc. Because of its strict production rules, it has a refined, layered flavour that includes floral spices, vanilla, dried fruits, and oak, depending on its age.
Best Cognac to Buy in Nigeria
Hennessy, RémyMartin, and Martell are three of the most iconic Cognac houses. Let’s compare them and find out how their style differ.
Hennessy
- Hennessy is one of the most recognized Cognac brands worldwide and was founded by Richard Hennessy in 1765. Since then, the house has evolved into a symbol of elegance and prestige.
- Hennessy is known for having a rich, bold, and robust flavour. They often balance spice and oak with fruity notes.
- Hennessy offers various expressions, including VS (very special), VSOP (very superior old pale), XO, and limited editions.
Martell
- House Martell was established in 1715 and has deeper roots in the Cognac tradition than Hennessy.
- Martell emphasizes finesse and smoothness. Its eaux-de-vie comes from Borderies (a small cru in the Cognac region), giving it a fruity, floral, yet delicate profile.
- Popular expressions from Martell include VS, VSOP, XO, Martell Blue Swift, and Medallion.
RémyMartin
- Rémy Martin was founded in 1724 and is renowned for using Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne crus, or Fine Champagne, which are high-quality terroirs.
- The Cognac is refined, rich, and elegant with notes of ripe fruit, vanilla, almonds, and sometimes, toasted oak. These blends are quite expressive with well-balanced flavours.
- It comes in expressions like VSOP, 1738 Accord Royal, Louis XIII, and XO.
Price Ranges and Best Buys (in Nigeria)
Here’s a price comparison of these Cognac houses:
Martell vs. Hennessy vs. RémyMartin: Best Buys by Budget
Here’s a quick recommendation based on different spending levels:
| Budget Range | Best Cognac Expression |
| ₦50,000 – ₦100,000 | Martell VS ( ₦48,000) or RémyMartin VSOP (₦83,800) |
| ₦90,000 – ₦120,000 | Hennessy VSOP (₦93,000) or RémyMartin ( ₦117,820) |
| ₦200,000 + | Martell XO ( ₦3200,000) or RémyMartin XO ( ₦360,000) |
Hennessy Price
- Hennessy VSOP is priced at ₦93,000 on Lickquor, a significant discount compared to other in-line liquor stores.
- Hennessy VS is tagged at ₦49,000
- Hennessy XO is priced at ₦345,000 and is best reserved for special occasions.
Martell Price
Martell’s price in Nigeria appeals to both low- and high-income consumers. While the VS appeals to the masses, XO targets the premium segment, the Blue Swift is in between, yet experimental.
- The Martell VS Single Distillery is priced at ₦48,150
- Martell Blue Swift is a special brew that adds sophistication to any event. At ₦85,000, you can enjoy a bottle with guests.
- You can get a Martell XO at ₦320,000.
RémyMartin Price
Rémy Martin offers tiered elegance with VSOP and 1738, and if you want to go over the top, XO provides refined luxury to your Cognac experience.
- RémyMartin VSOP costs around ₦83,800 on Lickquor.ng
- The Rémy Martin 1738 Accord Royal price is ₦ 117,820.
- RémyMartin XO costs about ₦360,000
How to Serve Cognac
It’s one thing to love Cognac, but it’s another thing to know how to serve it. Knowing how to serve this special liquor well is key to getting the most enjoyment from your bottle, especially with special purchases.
Glassware
Your glassware defines your drinking experience. It is best to use a tulip glass or a snifter (a wide-bowled glass with a narrow top). This shape helps you get a whiff of concentrated aromas while allowing you to swirl the spirit gently without spills.
Temperature
You should serve Cognac slightly warmed in your hands for a few minutes. Cognac flavour becomes more complex at temperatures between 18°C and -22°C.
Neat vs On the Rocks vs Cocktails
- Neat: Sipping neat is best for premium expressions like the VSOP or XO, so you can appreciate the flavour.
- When serving on the rocks, add a large single ice cube for a cooler, milder sip, but make sure you do not over-chill. Cold diminishes flavour, and too much water dilutes complexity.
- Cognac is a versatile spirit and can be used to make cocktails. Use VS or VSOP in cocktails such as a French 75 or Sidecar.
Pairing
Cognac pairs beautifully with dried fruit, nuts, or dark chocolate. You can sip a VS or VSOP before or after a meal to serve as a refined digestif, while an XO can be a nightcap.
Which Cognac Should You Buy?
Based on the price comparisons, here are some recommendations based on your priorities:
- For entry-level Cognac, choose Martell VS. For a budget-friendly option, choose Rémy Martin, which offers more elegance without breaking the bank.
- If you want prestige, the Hennessy VSOP is your go-to. Rémy1738 Accord Royal also delivers a smooth yet richer alternative to Hennessy.
- Martell XO or Rémy Martin XO are excellent choices for sipping slowly, offering luxury and richness to your experience.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Cognacs, brand plays a significant role in the buying process, alongside price and purpose. Hennessy is a strong brand known for superior craftsmanship, while Martell offers finesse and tradition. RémyMartin provides the fine champagne elegance to your event.
Depending on your budget, you can enjoy your Cognac however you want it – neat, in cocktails, or on the rocks. However, one brand may suit you better than the other. By comparing the price of Hennessy VSOP in Nigeria with other brands, you can make an informed choice. If you want convenient shopping, you should check out Lickquor.ng that offers home delivery while ensuring authenticity.
