Is brandy an acceptable substitute for cognac in a recipe

Question

ChefJune · Answer

There's a lot of brandy out there, and many whose flavor profiles closely parallel Cognac. Years ago I was steered toward the DeVille brand (made in France, but not in the Cognac region) by several French restaurant chefs. It still works. ;)

chef O. · Answer

I think it depends how much the recipe calls for, if and if it's used as a major flavor enhancer or merely a hint of flavor. Brandy does not have the same flavor profile as most cognac so why not buy a small bottle of both ( they last forever).

pierino · Answer

Yes, you can probably find Hennessey in the mini size. Although on a price point basis a half pint is probably a better value because you can consume what's left.

boulangere · Answer

If you don't want to buy a full-size bottle of either, little airline-size bottles are very reasonable in cost.

pierino · Answer

As per all the above answers, it's absolutely fine. Now if you really want to bust the budget substitute armagnac or calvados; the latter being great with apple flavors.

ChefJune · Answer

If you use a French or Spanish brandy, it should be very similar ti taste and texture to most Cognacs.  I would hate to waste good Cognac for cooking. It's very pricy.

Elaine R. · Answer

I substitute brandy all the time and it seems just fine.

ChefOno · Answer

Indeed

HalfPint · Answer

Should be fine.  I've been told all cognac are brandy, but not all brandy is cognac.  I think real cognac has to come from Cognac in France.

Is brandy an acceptable substitute for cognac in a recipe

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