I Tried Usher's Favorite Cognac and Now It's My Go-To Holiday Party Gift

Image Source: PS Photography / Jessica AndrewsThe world is enamored with Usher's "Past Present Future" tour, including the cherry and celebrity-cameo segments that often go viral. And while moments like Katy Perry and Orlando Bloom flirting, SWV's Leanne "Lelee" Lyons making Usher blush, and him celebrating Victoria Monét certainly command attention, I was more intrigued by everyone's drink of choice. What drink is everyone sipping at the show - and will it rival the Honey Deuce in its virality? I soon learned Usher's preferred brand of cognac is Rémy Martin, particularly Rémy Martin 1738 ($60). And his go-to drink is La Pêche Noire, which was being served backstage as part of the Rémy Martin Life is a Melody Backstage Experience. Naturally, I had to try it all out and see if it's worth the hype. First, I should preface this by saying I'm a big fan of cognac, and it's one of the most requested drinks at holiday parties I attend. It has a unique flavor profile as it has to be aged in French oak barrels for at least two years, and it goes down smoothly, whether you drink it straight or create a mixed cocktail. While "on the rocks" is decidedly not my thing as I am quite a lightweight (but more power to you if that's your preference), I couldn't get enough of the La Pêche Noire cocktail. It includes a splash of peach puree as a nod to Usher's roots in Georgia, the peach state (which tied perfectly with the backstage experience that celebrated every era of Usher's decades-spanning career, including his iconic appearance on "Atlanta Talent Search" at a young age). I most enjoyed Rémy Martin 1738 balanced with a bit of sweetness but still delivering the rich, darker flavors you'd expect from an aged cognac. Keep reading for my full review. What's the Criteria For a Good Cognac?A good cognac is defined by a smooth finish. It should be easy to drink with no harsh aftertaste which is more typical of whiskey. It should also have soft, delectable aromas - I prefer fruity or woody - that are neither biting nor overpowering. I personally enjoy cognac that mixes well for cocktails ranging from the famous Rémy Sidecar to the aforementioned La Pêche Noire. What I Like About Rémy Martin 1738Rémy Martin 1738 checks all my boxes: it mixes beautifully, has a smooth finish, and boasts sweet, fruity aromas that aren't dominating. It reminds me of my favorite holiday desserts with apricots, figs, apples, raisins, cinnamon, butterscotch, and brown sugar all adding to the flavor profile. The finish is rich and dark with heavier notes of oak and dark chocolate - yet it still manages to deliver a mellow aftertaste. I gravitated toward the La Pêche Noire drink, which calls for two ounces of Rémy Martin 1738, 3⁄4 oz Cointreau, 3⁄4 oz fresh lemon juice, and a splash of peach puree. The fruit juice creates a well-balanced harmony with Rémy Martin 1738's sweet notes and heavier lingering base. I found myself requesting it from the bartender backstage again and again - and even making the recipe at home for holiday gatherings. What to Consider Before Trying Rémy Martin 1738As I mentioned, I love that Rémy Martin 1738 goes down smoothly, but for those that prefer a bit of a tougher finish, the Remy Martin VSOP ($49) will be a better fit. Likewise, if you're partial to a dry aftertaste, you may want to choose a cognac with a lower aging level. The Rémy Martin 1738 has an average tasting age of 12 years old, but the Remy Martin XO ($200) is aged for at least 10 years. Who Rémy Martin 1738 Is Best ForIf you like a cognac with sweet, fruity notes and a rich, luxurious finish, Rémy Martin 1738 should definitely be on your gifting list - for others, of course, but most importantly, for yourself. I now grab this bottle for holiday or hostess gifts at parties, since it's a special find - the name pays homage to the seal of approval Rémy Martin received from King Louis XV in 1738 for the cognac's fine craftsmanship. And recipients enjoy hearing that it's Usher's favorite, too. At home, it sits on my fancy bar cart and I pull it out when I have guests over or when it's a special occasion. Where Is Rémy Martin 1738 Available?Rémy Martin 1738 is available at Total Wine, Wine.com, or Rémy Martin's site. RatingJessica C. Andrews (she/her) is the senior content director of Shopping and PS UK. With more than 15 years of experience, her areas of expertise include fashion, shopping, and travel. Prior to joining PS, Jessica held senior roles at Teen Vogue, Refinery29, and Bustle and contributed to The New York Times, Elle, Vanity Fair, and Essence. She's appeared on "Good Morning America," NBC, and Fox 5 New York and spoken on various panels about fashion, hair, and Black culture.