Cognac Grades Decoded: VS, VSOP, XO and Hors d'Âge

3 days ago

2 min read

Cognac labels can look like a puzzle of initials. Yet those letters carry real meaning: they tell you the minimum age of the youngest brandy in the blend. Once you understand them, choosing the right bottle becomes much simpler.

The official age grades

All Cognac is aged in oak barrels. The grade on the label refers to the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend, although many producers use much older brandies.

VS (Very Special) – aged for at least two years. Fresh, fruity and lively, ideal for cocktails and long drinks.
VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) – aged for at least four years. Smoother and rounder, with more oak, vanilla and spice. Versatile for sipping or mixing.
XO (Extra Old) – aged for at least ten years. Rich and complex, with notes of dried fruit, leather, nuts and spice. Made for slow sipping.
Hors d'Âge – meaning "beyond age", this term is used for very old, premium blends. It is legally aligned with XO, but producers typically reserve it for their most exceptional releases.

The crus: where the grapes grow

The Cognac region is divided into growing areas, known as crus, each with its own character.

Grande Champagne – the most prestigious, producing elegant, long-lived brandies. (It has no connection to the sparkling wine region.)
Petite Champagne – also highly regarded, with finesse and structure.
Fine Champagne – a blend of Grande and Petite Champagne, with at least half from Grande Champagne.
Borderies – the smallest cru, known for floral, nutty notes.
Fins Bois and Bons Bois – producing rounder, fruitier brandies often used in blends.

How to serve Cognac

VS – try it in a Sidecar or with premium ginger ale over ice.
VSOP – excellent neat, on the rocks or in a classic French 75.
XO and Hors d'Âge – serve neat at room temperature in a tulip glass. Add a drop of water if you like, and take your time.