Pre-chill your coupe or cocktail glass in the freezer for at least 15 minutes before preparing the drink to maintain optimal temperature and prevent the cocktail from warming too quickly.

Use a VSOP or XO-grade cognac rather than standard VS, as its deeper complexity and smoother finish will shine through and elevate the entire cocktail's sophistication.

Stir the ingredients for 10-15 seconds over ice in a mixing glass to properly dilute and chill without aerating, which preserves the elegant character of the cognac and vermouth.

Use only ¼ to ½ ounce of orange liqueur (like Cointreau or Grand Marnier) to add complexity without overwhelming the cognac—too much will make it overly sweet and mask the premium spirit.

Add exactly 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters by tapping the bottle to the rim rather than pouring freely, ensuring precise measurement and even distribution across the surface of the finished cocktail.