Still pretty young but I've tried a few different cognacs and brandy, and from experience I just stick with cognac because I haven't gone wrong once, but when u take VS cognacs I have to give it to Martell, my optimal choice value for money would definitely be the blue swift and you will notice how much rougher the VS is, but as a cheaper alternative, that in some occasions you can even mix with sprite, it is my number 1 choice, you'll will not regret it. I'll come back to clean your shelves ;)

Bought this when it was on sale for $55. When i first tried it, didn't get used to the taste because i'm used to drinking Hennessy VS. As i kept on drinking, i found out that it is much smoother compared to Hennessy VS when you drink it straight. Unlike Hennessy VS, it is also much less spicier, doesn't taste dry or burn. Overall, i reckon this beats Hennessy VS.

as mentioned this is my first cognac smells pleasant with pear and hints of smoke but the fact is i didnt enjoy this drink, the balance is odd to me, i have drank this in both straight and on the rocks (on the rocks preferred) now i can and am drinking this over ice but its just not pleasant, the unique taste and balance doesnt work for me its also worth noting i have tried this in the preffered tasting method of warming in palm with a low wine glass...in summery not bad just not great for a first time cognac Perhaps i need time or perhaps a differnet cognac, in the end though i am not enjoying this, and i constantly enjoy a good scotch or spirit