Brandy lovers, rejoice! The 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition has revealed some exceptional brandies that won’t break the bank. These top picks, all priced under $50, offer an incredible blend of quality and value. Here are the standout brandies that the judges loved, promising a delightful sipping experience without the hefty price tag.
PÈRE MAGLOIRE V.S.O.P. Calvados
PÈRE MAGLOIRE V.S.O.P. Calvados hails from the renowned Pays D’Auge region in Normandy. This exquisite brandy offers a harmonious blend of rich apple flavors and subtle oak notes, making it a refined choice for any brandy enthusiast. The smooth finish and well-rounded profile make it an excellent option for sipping or as a key ingredient in your favorite cocktails.
BUSNEL 12-Year-Old Calvados
BUSNEL 12-Year-Old Calvados is a standout selection with its mature and complex flavor profile. Aged for 12 years, this brandy offers deep, nuanced notes of baked apples, spices, and a hint of vanilla. Its higher alcohol content provides a robust and satisfying experience, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a more intense brandy.
FUNDADOR SHERRY CASK DOBLE MADERA
FUNDADOR SHERRY CASK DOBLE MADERA is an exceptional value, offering rich and smooth flavors at an incredibly affordable price. Aged in sherry casks, this brandy features delightful notes of dried fruit and nuts, complemented by a mellow sweetness. It’s an excellent choice for both sipping and mixing, providing a taste of luxury without the high cost.
FUNDADOR SHERRY CASK TRIPLE MADERA
FUNDADOR SHERRY CASK TRIPLE MADERA elevates the experience with its triple maturation process. This brandy boasts complex flavors of caramel, oak, and dried fruit, delivering a sophisticated and rich profile.
Paul Masson VSOP
Paul Masson VSOP is a testament to quality American brandy. With its well-balanced profile, this brandy offers smooth and inviting flavors of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of oak.
Golden Wat Cognac Virtue VSOP
This elegant brandy features refined notes of dried fruits, spices, and a touch of floral essence, offering a luxurious and complex experience. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or when you want to indulge in something truly exceptional.
These outstanding brandies from the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition demonstrate that exceptional quality doesn’t have to come with a high price tag. Whether you’re an experienced connoisseur or a curious newcomer, these brandies offer an excellent way to enjoy premium spirits without the premium price.