Courvoisier V.S.

Well, Cognac is the type of brandy that it is, signifying its geographical source, in the same way that Armagnac is a brandy from further south and Janneau is one brand of Armagnac like Courvoisier and Martell are brands of Cognac. So: generic - brandy, source - Cognac, brand or make - Courvoisier.

Courvoisier, to my palate is sweeter, hence tastes "fuller" but I prefer the relatively dryer Martell. But try Remy Martin or Hine: they are both elegant (and sometimes more pricey) alternatives.

And Armagnac has a touch of prune and smoke to it, made in a slightly different way and from different grapes, soil and climate. Experiment!

Courvoisier V.S. isn't a brandy, it's a cognac! It's in the same fortified wine class as brandy, but it is fortified longer turning it to a cognac.

I am usually torn between Courvoisier and Martell as although different they are both good Brandy's and usually priced very similar too.

My choice depends on my mood.

If I am feeling a little more extravagant I buy Courvoisier.

This probably reflects the difference in flavour too.

Courvoisier in my opinion (bearing in mind I am no expert) has a richer more powerful flavour, where as Martell is classy and smooth.

If you enjoy a nice glass of brandy, warmed over a cup of hot water, I think that you would be happy with either, though bear in mind they will not blow you away, they are just quite simply good, enjoyable Brandy's.