Cognac is a fine brandy, known for its smoothness and dry aroma. It's produced only in the Cognac region of France even though the French sometimes allow other countries to produce it. All Cognac is brandy, but not all brandy is Cognac, nor is all French brandy Cognac.

Brandy is possibly the oldest form of drinking spirit. It is made from grape wine. Wine brandy is stable in many homes, not only as a fine spirit drink, but as an insurance against illness. Russian ladies use it for shampoo, the Chinese believe it is good for their love lives, and the French for "preservation" and for cooking in some of their recipes.

Brandy is aged in oak casks. It is usually bottled at 80 proof. Generally, it's enjoyed as an after dinner drink and is widely used in many cocktail recipes.