Best Substitutes for Cognac

Out of Cognac? Here are the best alternatives that work in cocktail recipes.

Cognac — spirit used in cocktails

Original Ingredient

Cognac

Spirit 40.00% ABV Elegant nose of dried fruit, vanilla, oak, and floral esters. Palate is velvety with raisin, honey, and warm baking spice complexity. Long, refined finish with gentle tannins and warmth.

Recommended Substitutes

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Brandy

Use as a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted.

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Apple Brandy

Use as a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted.

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Applejack

Use as a 1:1 substitute unless otherwise noted.

General Substitution Tips

  • Match the alcohol level: a 40% spirit needs a similarly strong replacement or adjust volume.
  • For liqueurs, dilute spirits + simple syrup can replicate sweetness and proof.
  • Citrus substitutions: lemon and lime are mostly interchangeable at a 1:1 ratio.
  • For bitters, Angostura is the most neutral substitute for most other aromatic bitters.