Understanding Cognac Aging: VSOP

Today we kiss some VSOP glass! This is a step above the VS in terms of aging and flavour profile. For those that jumped straight to this VSOP post, we recommend reading on the VS aswell, no order is necessary by the way. Okay, back to the programme.

VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): A More Mature Experience

- Minimum Age: 4 years

- What It Means: The “VSOP” label indicates that the youngest eau-de-vie in the bottle has been aged for at least 4 years. This category is often considered the sweet spot for cognac aficionados, as it provides a balance of maturity and freshness. A VSOP cognac will have a more rounded and complex character compared to a VS, offering a richer bouquet with deeper flavors like dried fruits, spices, and a touch of oak.

 Hennessy VSOP: Known for its perfect balance of fruitiness, oakiness, and spice, it’s one of the most iconic VSOPs on the market.

 Remy Martin VSOP: It offers a harmonious blend of rich vanilla and toasted oak notes, with a finish that lingers on the palate.

VSOP cognacs are often enjoyed neat or on the rocks, allowing the flavors to unfold without any distractions.

However some still love a VSOP cocktail. Lets kiss some glass!

Cognac VSOP Cocktails

1. VSOP Old Fashioned

A classic cocktail reimagined with the richness of Cognac VSOP for a deep, layered flavor.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cognac VSOP

• 1/4 oz simple syrup

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• Orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, combine the Cognac VSOP, simple syrup, and bitters with ice.

2. Stir well until chilled and properly diluted.

3. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass with a large ice cube.

4. Express the orange peel over the drink, releasing its oils, and drop it into the glass.

Flavor Profile: A refined twist on the Old Fashioned, with the warm, caramelized notes of the VSOP coming through the bitters and citrus, offering a beautifully balanced drink.

2. Cognac & Elderflower Collins

A delicate yet fragrant cocktail that pairs the floral elegance of elderflower with the complexity of Cognac VSOP.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cognac VSOP

• 1 oz elderflower liqueur (such as St-Germain)

• 1 oz fresh lemon juice

• 1 oz simple syrup

• 3 oz club soda

• Lemon slice (for garnish)

• Fresh thyme sprig (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine the Cognac VSOP, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, and simple syrup with ice.

2. Shake well until chilled, then strain into a tall glass filled with ice.

3. Top with club soda and stir gently.

4. Garnish with a lemon slice and a sprig of fresh thyme.

Flavor Profile: Floral, citrusy, and refreshing, this cocktail has a bright, herbal aroma from the elderflower and thyme, while the Cognac VSOP adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor.

3. Cognac Cinnamon Spice

A warming, spicy cocktail perfect for cozy evenings, with the richness of Cognac VSOP enhanced by aromatic cinnamon.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Cognac VSOP

• 1/2 oz cinnamon syrup

• 1/4 oz fresh orange juice

• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters

• Cinnamon stick (for garnish)

• Orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, combine Cognac VSOP, cinnamon syrup, orange juice, and bitters with ice.

2. Stir well until chilled.

3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a twist of orange peel.

Flavor Profile: A rich, aromatic cocktail that combines the deep, complex flavors of the Cognac VSOP with the warmth of cinnamon and the zestiness of orange, creating a perfect balance for the colder months.

These cocktails are designed to highlight the distinct qualities of Cognac VSOP—whether you’re after something light and refreshing or rich and warming. Each drink allows the complexity and smoothness of the cognac to shine, making them a great addition to any bar menu or home cocktail repertoire. Cheers!