What do I need to know about ordering products on this site?

At the moment it is not possible to accept credit card payments. If you do not already hold an account with Brandyclassics, please register after which you will be able to login, order on-line and submit payment by cheque or direct bank transfer on receipt of your email order confirmation.

What is the best way to drink any of your products?

Cognacs must by law be not less than 40% alc. Ideally, they should never be mixed with water as this can be detected in the fine flavour of the spirit. It is best to pour the cognac into a small tulip shaped glass after which it can be gently rotated (never swirled as the alcohol released will blind the aroma), to allow the sides of the glass to become coated. Allow the glass to stand for a few seconds and gently bring the glass to the nose. Remember that half of the enjoyment of tasting this noble liquor is in the aroma. Try and identify the various aromas before taking it to the mouth and allowing the nectar to coat the tongue and back of the mouth. Chew the cognac before swallowing and see how long it lasts on the palate. A good cognac will last several minutes.

What makes cognacs supplied by Brandyclassics so good?

All of the brandies supplied by brandyclassics are free of additives such as sugar syrup and caramel used to hide the fiery effects and pale colour of young cognacs when blended with hundreds of others. Naturally aged cognacs are kept in barrels for far longer and develop their colour and balance from the barrel.

Why are cognacs different colours?

The colour of cognac comes from long ageing in oak barrels, larger and longer exposure to the wood will turn the cognac darker. Caramel often added to generically blended cognacs will provide a red hue. Colour is not always indicative of age.

Once opened, how long can I keep my cognacs?

It is important to always replace the cork after the bottle has been opened. The more cognac there is in the bottle the longer it will remain in good condition. Generally speaking it is possible to store an opened bottle for 2-3 years without noticeable detioration of the spirit.

How is best to store cognac?

Spirit bottles should never be stored on their sides. Strong spirits will affect the cork and the taste can be detected. Always store bottles of brandy standing up with their corks securely in place.

What is the difference between Brandy and cognac?

None. Brandy is a Generic name for cognac, armagnac and calvados. The French will often say that every cognac is a brandy but not every brandy is a cognac.

Are cognacs all the same strength?

No. The legal minimum requirement is 40% abv but they can be more depending on individual cognacs. The duty on spirits is calculated by the level of pure alcohol in the bottle or decanter so the higher the level the more expensive the cognac becomes.

Where can I learn more about cognacs?

Brandyclassics have useful educational information which can be supplied. There are a number of very good books available, the best is written by Nicolas Faith and is called Cognac.

When can I expect delivery of my order?

All deliveries should be within 10 working days. Faster deliveries can be arranged.

What can I do if my goods arrived damaged?

You must contact Brandyclasics within 48 hours.

How can I buy brandies from Brandyclassics?

Register after which you will be able to login, order on-line and submit payment. At present we can only accept payments by cheque made payable to 'Brandyclassics' and sent to 'Brandyclassics', 87 Trowbridge Road, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1EG or direct bank transfer to 'Brandyclassics' - Natwest - A/C 84249757 - Sort Code 60 24 77.

Is carriage charge included?

No, unless your order value is greater than £350 and delivery is within the UK. Carriage charges outside the UK will be quoted separately.

Do you accept payment in other currencies?

We can accept payment in Euros at the indicated invoice value when shown in Euros.