Hennessy Cognac VS

Hennessy VS is the best-selling cognac in the world — a blend of over 40 eaux-de-vie from all four Cognac crus (Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, and Fins Bois), aged a minimum of two years in Limousin oak barrels, producing the approachable, versatile character of apple, citrus, almond, and vanilla that has made it the global benchmark for entry-level cognac since its inception.

Hennessy was founded in 1765 by Irish-born Richard Hennessy in the town of Cognac on the Charente river, and began exporting to markets across Europe and eventually the United States and Asia in the early 19th century. The VS (Very Special) designation requires the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend to be aged at least two years in Limousin oak — but Hennessy's VS typically contains older components alongside the minimum-aged spirit, contributing more complexity than the minimum requirement suggests. The multi-cru blend draws on the house's extensive reserves: Grande Champagne and Petite Champagne for floral finesse, Borderies for roundness, and Fins Bois for immediate fruit expressiveness. The result is the most widely consumed cognac by volume in the world, working equally well neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation of Cognac cocktails.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Apple, citrus zest, and a subtle floral note — the multi-cru character at its most approachable
• Palate: Light to medium-bodied — apple, citrus, almond, and vanilla from the Limousin oak aging
• Finish: Clean and medium-length with warm spice

Specs

• Producer: Hennessy, Cognac, France (est. 1765)
• Style: VS Cognac
• Blend: 40+ eaux-de-vie from all four Cognac crus
• Age: Minimum 2 years in Limousin oak
• ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
• Size: 750ml

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Hennessy VS and VSOP?

VS requires a minimum of 2 years aging for the youngest eau-de-vie; VSOP requires a minimum of 4 years. VSOP uses older and more numerous eaux-de-vie (60+ vs 40+), producing greater complexity, depth, and a smoother texture. VS is the more approachable, cocktail-versatile expression; VSOP is the more refined sipping expression.