Hennessy Cognac VSOP

Hennessy VSOP is the world's most recognized VSOP cognac — a blend of over 60 eaux-de-vie from all four Cognac crus (Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, and Fins Bois), aged between four and fifteen years in Limousin oak, producing the smooth, polished character that has made VSOP the most popular cognac category globally since Hennessy created it in 1817.

The VSOP designation (Very Superior Old Pale) was created specifically for Hennessy in 1817 at the request of the future King George IV of England — he wanted a cognac aged longer than VS but without the dark caramel coloring that was standard at the time, hence "pale." Hennessy has been blending VSOP to the same quality standard since, with the cellar master selecting from across the Maison's extensive eaux-de-vie reserves to maintain the house profile: the floral, fruity character of Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne providing finesse, the Borderies adding a distinctive roundness and violet note, and the Fins Bois contributing the more immediate fruity character. After water reduction, the blend is matured further in Limousin oak to integrate before bottling.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Fruity and floral — pear, apple, and violet with the roundness of Borderies and the finesse of the Champagne crus
• Palate: Smooth and supple — the multi-cru blend's complexity integrating at 4–15 years of maturation, with caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit from the Limousin oak
• Finish: Medium-long with warm oak spice and a clean floral close

Specs

• Producer: Hennessy, Cognac, France (est. 1765)
• Style: VSOP Cognac
• Blend: 60+ eaux-de-vie from all four Cognac crus
• Age: 4–15 years in Limousin oak
• ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
• Size: 750ml

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does VSOP mean?

Very Superior Old Pale — a designation created by Hennessy in 1817. It requires the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend to be aged at least four years. The "pale" refers to the absence of artificial coloring that was common in 19th-century cognac production.