I would like to add a small comment about brandy and cognac. Unlike the other non-scotch ‘brown’ liquors, there is a sensible gradient of pricing, at least to $100 or so.
Avoid the cheapest brandies - E&J - Ack! Metaxa is an economical acquired taste. The slightly dearer French brandies are fine. At twice the price, Hennessey and Courvoisier are value for dollar as an introduction to cognacs. Once you decide you like cognac, it is worth trying a bottle of the $90+ stuff - they really are worth the price once you can appreciate them, imnsho...;^)
Sheesh!...I sound like Sideshow Bob!!!
Sip it slowly...
That has been my exact same experience.