When you buy cognac, three letters appear on almost every bottle , VS, VSOP or XO. These are age grade designations that tell you the minimum time the youngest spirit in the blend has spent maturing in oak barrels. They are the single most important thing to understand when choosing a cognac, whether you are buying for yourself, selecting a gift or stocking a drinks cabinet for the first time.

What Does VS Mean In Cognac?

VS stands for Very Special. A VS cognac must contain eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of two years in oak barrels, though in practice most reputable houses age their VS expressions for considerably longer than the minimum. VS is the youngest and most accessible grade of cognac, typically lighter and more fruit-forward in character than older expressions.

Flavour profile: Fresh and vibrant, with notes of fruit, floral aromas and lighter oak. Less complex than older grades but lively and approachable.

Best served: In cocktails and long drinks. VS cognac is the natural choice for a Sidecar, a Brandy Sour or a simple cognac and ginger ale. Its youthful energy and lighter character work beautifully with mixers where a more expensive aged expression would be wasted.

Price range: Generally the most affordable grade, making VS an excellent entry point for those new to cognac.

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What Does VSOP Mean In Cognac?

VSOP stands for Very Superior Old Pale. A VSOP cognac must contain eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of four years in oak, though again most houses exceed this considerably. VSOP is the middle ground of the cognac range, offering noticeably more complexity and depth than VS while remaining approachable and versatile.

Flavour profile: More rounded and complex than VS, with dried fruit, vanilla, gentle spice and a more pronounced oak influence. The additional time in barrel gives VSOP a smoother, more integrated character.

Best served: Neat or with a small amount of still water, which opens up the aromas without diluting the flavour. VSOP also works well in quality cocktails where the character of the cognac should be perceptible. A good VSOP is the most versatile grade , sophisticated enough to sip but accessible enough to mix.

Price range: Mid-range. VSOP represents strong value in the cognac category, offering genuine complexity at a reasonable price point.

What Does XO Mean In Cognac?

XO stands for Extra Old. Since 2018, French regulations require that an XO cognac must contain eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of ten years in oak barrels, raised from the previous minimum of six years. In practice, the finest XO expressions from the great houses contain spirits aged for 20, 30 or even 40 years, blended to create extraordinary complexity and depth.

Flavour profile: Rich and complex, with deep notes of dried fruit, toasted oak, leather, walnut, dark chocolate and warm spice. The palate is full and lingering, with a long, warming finish. XO cognac is as close to fine wine in its complexity as any spirit can be.

Best served: Neat, in a tulip-shaped glass at room temperature. The warmth of your hand gently opens up the aromas. XO cognac deserves to be appreciated on its own without the distraction of mixers or ice.

Price range: Premium. XO cognac from a respected house is one of the great luxury drink experiences, and the price reflects the decades of maturation behind every bottle.

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Is There Anything Above XO?

Yes. Several houses produce expressions above XO under designations such as Extra, Hors d'Age, Napoleon or XXO. These are prestige releases that contain eaux-de-vie of exceptional age and rarity, and they sit at the very top of the cognac category in both quality and price. Delamain in particular is known for producing exceptional aged cognac expressions that go well beyond the standard XO grade.

VS vs VSOP vs XO, Quick Comparison

VS: Minimum 2 years. Light, fruity, fresh. Best in cocktails. Most affordable.

VSOP: Minimum 4 years. Rounded, complex, vanilla and dried fruit. Neat or in quality cocktails. Mid-range.

XO: Minimum 10 years. Rich, deep, toasted oak and dark fruit. Neat only. Premium.

Which Grade Should I Choose?

For cocktails: VS is the right choice. Using an XO in a cocktail would be like cooking with a first-growth Bordeaux , the nuances are lost and the expense unjustified.

For an after-dinner drink: VSOP or XO depending on budget. A good VSOP from Courvoisier, Hennessy or Remy Martin is a genuinely satisfying after-dinner sip at a sensible price. XO is for special occasions or when you want the very best.

For a gift: VSOP is the most reliable gifting choice at a reasonable price. XO makes a more impressive gift for a serious cognac enthusiast or a significant occasion. For our full range of gift-boxed cognac see our cognac collection and our luxury brandy gift collection.

For a first cognac: Start with a VSOP. It is complex enough to be interesting but not so intense that it overwhelms a new palate. Courvoisier VSOP and Remy Martin VSOP are both excellent starting points.

For a broader understanding of all brandy styles including armagnac, calvados and world brandy, see our complete guide to types of brandy.

Explore our full cognac and brandy range, from accessible VS expressions through to rare XO and prestige releases. All available online with free UK delivery on orders over £100.

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