VS, VSOP, XO: what are the differences?

A classification based on age

VS, VSOP and XO are age designations: they indicate the minimum age of the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend, not the average age of the cognac. Each house may of course use eaux-de-vie older than this minimum.

VS (Very Special)

Aged at least 2 years in oak, VS is the youngest of the cognacs. Lively and fruity, it reveals aromas of white flowers and fresh fruit. It is often the gateway to cognac, and is also enjoyed in cocktails.

VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale)

Aged at least 4 years, VSOP gains roundness and depth. Aromas of dried fruit, vanilla and soft spices take over from the liveliness of VS, for a balance enjoyed both neat and in cocktails.

XO (Extra Old)

Aged at least 10 years (since 2018), XO is a sipping cognac, rich and complex, with notes of candied fruit, cocoa, leather and rancio. It is traditionally enjoyed neat, at room temperature.

To choose your XO, read our guide XO Cognac: the guide to choosing well, or go straight to the Michel Forgeron XO Grande Champagne Cognac.

In summary

• VS: minimum 2 years — lively and fruity
• VSOP: minimum 4 years — round and balanced
• Napoléon: minimum 6 years — in between VSOP and XO
• XO: minimum 10 years — rich and complex

See also: Old Cognac, Very Old Cognac and Extra Old Cognac.