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VS, VSOP, XO and XXO refer to the age and quality of the cognac. Each corresponds to how it has been aged in oak barrels.
In 1983, following a request by the BNIC (Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac)*, the French government drafted regulations governing the terms used to describe a cognacs’ quality. These designations, which may be included on the label, refer to the age of the youngest eau-de-vie (the distilled wine) used in making the cognac.
What VS stands for?
VS stands for “Very Special”: only eaux-de-vie at least two years old can be used to make a VS cognac. Behind the initials, other denominators and expressions are permitted, such as “3 stars”, “selection” or “luxury”, and as such are included in the VS cognac category.
What does VSOP mean?
VSOP stands for “Very Superior Old Pale”. To achieve this classification, VSOP cognacs must be created from eaux-de-vie aged for at least four years. The VSOP category includes designations such as “Old” or “Reserve”.
What does XO signify?
XO, the acronym for “Extra Old”, denotes a complex blend of many eaux-de-vie, the youngest of which has been aged for at least ten years in a barrel. It is now known as the ‘gold standard’ in cognac. Cognacs such as “Old Reserve” are equivalent to XO cognac.
How old is an XXO cognac?
Introducing a new era of refinement, XXO, or “Extra Extra Old,” emerged in 2018 as a distinction for cognacs made from eaux-de-vie aged for a minimum of fourteen years.
Which is the best cognac between VS, VSOP, XO and XXO?
Choosing the “best” Cognac is subjective and varies based on personal taste preferences. Some may prefer the youthful and vibrant nature of a VS, while others may appreciate the depth and complexity of an XO or XXO.
Why are these abbreviations in English?
The reason these abbreviations are in English, stems from the historical context of Cognac’s exportation. Over the years, Cognac has been a highly sought-after spirit in international markets, and its popularity led to widespread exportation to various countries, including English-speaking nations.
During the period of Cognac’s expansion into global markets, the primary importers and consumers often spoke English. To cater to these international consumers and facilitate easier understanding and recognition of different quality grades or classifications, Cognac houses adopted English abbreviations on their labels. This decision aimed to create a universal standard that transcended language barriers and allowed consumers worldwide to identify and comprehend the quality levels of Cognac.