6 best armagnacs to replace your favourite cognac, tested by a spirits expert

Darroze’s “Les Grands Assemblages” series showcases the remarkable diversity of aged armagnac, with each expression crafted from carefully selected eaux-de-vie brandies of varying ages and origins. The eight-year ageing offers an enticing blend of youthful vibrancy and emerging maturity, making it a fascinating introduction to the house style.

Aromas of vanilla, spice and orchard fruits are joined by a lively palate of caramelised pear, hazelnut and sweet oak. Balanced and structured, it’s a phenomenal armagnac that also offers great value for collectors.

A benchmark expression for those new to armagnac, Janneau VSOP provides an exemplary introduction to the category. Blended from eaux-de-vie brandies aged for at least four years in French oak, it’s a masterclass in balance, fruit-forward flavours that are grounded by gentle spice and vanilla.

Expect aromas of apricot, honey and polished wood on the nose, leading to a palate rich in dried fruit, toasted almond and a faint whiff of cocoa. The mouthfeel is supple and lingering, with a finish that hums with warm spice and candied orange. Refined yet approachable, this is the armagnac to convert cognac drinkers.

Proof that armagnac can be as forward-thinking as it is traditional, Anthema’s striking blue bottle conceals a spirit as bold as its presentation. Contemporary in concept yet classic in execution, it bursts with ripe plum, vanilla pod and sweet baking spice.

There’s a gentle lift of orange zest and honey on the palate, balanced by a touch of oak and cinnamon warmth. It’s a statement piece for the home bar and a conversation starter at any dinner party.

From Domaine de Laballe in the heart of Bas Armagnac, this 12-year-old bottling perfectly demonstrates the region’s signature style. It’s velvety, decadent and deeply layered. Aged in Gascon oak barrels that lend a bold tannic backbone, the spirit unfurls with aromas of prune, fig and caramelised sugar.

On the palate, waves of cocoa, roasted nuts and tobacco give way to a long, earthy finish that evokes dark chocolate and a whisper of leather. This is a slow-sipping armagnac, ideal as a digestif.

Family-run for generations, Maison Delord is revered for producing armagnac of exceptional depth and balance, and this 15-year-old bottling is a fine example. Aged in oak barrels within their traditional cellars in Lannepax, the spirit has matured beautifully, exuding aromas of dried fig, leather and dark toffee.

It’s rich and savoury on the palate, with baked fruit, nutmeg and tobacco unfolding before a wonderfully warming finish. A stunning sipper for cold evenings.

Waitrose & Partners’ VSOP Armagnac overdelivers at its price point. Distilled and matured by one of Gascony’s respected producers, it’s a superb everyday armagnac that’s smooth, elegant and gently spiced.

The nose is alive with dried apricot and vanilla, while the palate delivers golden raisin, honey and delicate oak. The finish is clean but persistent, with a flicker of nutmeg and citrus peel. Great for those exploring the category for the first time, or for anyone seeking a solid house pour.