Bargain spirits from around the world

The market for distilled spirits is booming, said F. Paul Pacult in Wine Enthusiast. While beer sales in the U.S. dropped in 2006 and “wine’s portion of the pie remained static,” nearly every category of spirits grew except for blended whiskeys. We tasted an assortment of reasonably priced spirits, rating several as “superb,” with a 90 to 95 score on a 100-point scale. We gave two our “highest recommendation,” with a 96 to 100 score.

Brandy, France

Daniel Bouju Fines Saveurs Grande Champagne Cognac ($40) An “under-the-radar gem” and a “slam-dunk pleasure” from Cognac’s premier district.

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Marie Duffau Napoleon Bas-Armagnac ($30) More than a steal, at this price it’s “grand larceny.”

Tequila, Mexico

Pueblo Viejo Reposado 100% Agave Tequila ($33) “Always stick with tequilas that are 100 percent agave,” and avoid blends.

Vodka, Ukraine

Russov Vodka ($12) “Is this price correct?” Yes! You just can’t go wrong.

Rum, Jamaica

Appleton Estate Extra Rum ($25) “Highest recommendation.” Great for sipping, and a supremely delicious cocktail ingredient.

Gin, England

Boodles British London Dry Gin ($20) “A best-kept secret that deserves a far larger audience in the U.S.”

Liqueurs, France

Lejay-Lagoute Chocolate Liqueur ($20) “Highest recommendation.” A superb after-dinner elixir.