🥃 VS, VSOP, XO

VS, VSOP, XO are age labels on cognac and some other brandies, showing the age of the youngest spirit in the blend. VS, VSOP and XO are age marks for Cognac and some other brandies, such as Armagnac. They show how old the youngest spirit in the blend is. Cognac is almost always blended from spirits of different ages, and by the rules the age of the blend is set by the youngest.

For Cognac, VS (Very Special) means at least two years in oak. VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) means at least four years. XO (Extra Old) means at least ten years. Armagnac uses the same marks with somewhat different minimum ages. The real age of many cognacs is above the minimum, and very old spirits often go into the blend. The older the spirit, the softer and more complex the taste: notes of vanilla, dried fruit and nuts appear.

The marks apply to Cognac and Armagnac, French brandies made from grapes. Age does not speak directly of quality but shows style. Younger cognacs are more often used in cocktails, and older ones are sipped on their own in small servings. It is a strong drink, so it should be taken in moderation. Other brandies stand alongside, such as grape brandy from other countries.