VSOP Cognac, standing for “Very Superior Old Pale,” is a distinguished classification of Cognac governed by the Bureau National Interprofessionnel du Cognac (BNIC), requiring that the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend be aged in oak barrels for at least four years. Hailing from the Cognac region of France and crafted primarily from Ugni Blanc grapes, VSOP strikes a refined balance between youth and maturity, offering a smoother, more complex profile than its VS counterpart. The extended oak aging imparts richer flavors—think dried fruit, vanilla, and subtle spices like cinnamon—layered over the floral and citrus notes retained from the grape, making it a favorite from houses like Rémy Martin, Hennessy, and Martell. Ideal for sipping neat or with a splash of water to unlock its aromas, VSOP also holds its own in cocktails like a Sidecar, appealing to those seeking elegance without the intensity of older blends. Introduced in 1817 by order of King George IV, who sought a “pale” Cognac free of additives, VSOP remains a timeless choice for its versatility and approachable sophistication.
