I'm not sure where to get it in the states, but I was just in Armenia and they have some fine cognac there. The former soviet union never had much respect for proper names like cognac and champagne, but they still produce some nice products for amazingly cheap (at least here in Russia). Actually, however, I was told that the French are now doing some advising at the plant in Armenia (apparently all the cognac is made in one plant, despite different brands kind of.) I picked up a bottle (.750) of some pretty decent quality 10 year old cognac (youbelaynoi (jubilee) ) at the duty free on the way out for 14 bucks. When I got back to Russia the same bottle was 80 bucks. In the states, I'm sure it is much more expensive. The most expensive kind we saw in Armenia was 80 bucks or so there, its called Nairi. The rich russians definately drink the armenian despite the abundance of many fine french varieties. I definately recommend that you try it out if you ever see it anywhere. The other alcohol of the former soviet union is also very good. I prefer the 3 dollar bottles of sovetskoi champagne I've been drinking to anything I've previously had (though i haven't had alot). Georgian wine is also generally pretty good, though often sweet. My favorite variety is called Kindzamaruli, though they make quite a few varieties, mostly red. Like I said, they are sweet, and many ppl prefer the semi-dry when eating. Although the semi-sweet isn't a desert wine, its much sweeter than most wine. Finally, the prime alcohol coming out of the region is definately the vodka. Russki Standart is quite simply an amazing product, much better in my opinion than Grey Goose or anything else available in the states. Most people in the states, of course, mix vodka and drink flavored vodka, but if you are looking for some straight vodka to sip or perhaps shoot, then definately check out the ruskii standart if you ever see it.
