What Does VSOP Mean?

Cognac must mature for at least four years before it earns a VSOP label.

Cognac is brandy distilled from white wine, which is aged in oak barrels for at least two years. VSOP is a cognac designation which means "Very Superior Old Pale." It certifies the cognac has aged for at least four years.

Cognac Classification

Cognac bottles have VS, VSOP and XO to indicate how long the cognac has aged. VS cognac is at least two years old. VSOP cognac is at least four years old. The XO label is reserved for cognacs that have aged for six years or longer.

The Aging Process

Cognac, as it ages, extracts substances from its oak barrel known as "dry extracts." These lend subtle flavors to the cognac. They also darken the cognac. The older the cognac, the deeper the color.

Differences Between VSOP and XO

Rancio is a subtle, bitter taste, which cognac connoisseurs prize. It takes 15 to 25 years of aging to develop. While VSOP cognacs don't exhibit rancio, they are more affordable than their XO counterparts. A lesser XO may cost $80, while a good VSOP can run about $40.

References

• Cognac: All About Cognac: Elaboration: Ageing Process
• Table Matters: Booxe: Old World Soul
• Bartender: Cognac
• Cognac: All About Cognac: Cognac: Reading a Label

Resources

• "The Independent"; High Spirits in Cognac; John Lichfield; February, 2008