What do the letters VS, VSOP and XO stand for on Cognac?
Within the Cognac industry, there is a system of certification of age. The certificates are based on the length of time that the cognac has spent in oak. • VS (Very Special) – is at least two years old. • VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) – also called a reserve and at least four years old. • XO (Extra Old) – also called a Napoleon is at least six years old. Most cognac houses will use older than those required by law. Many allow their XO’s to reach a minimum of 20 years in order to reveal their best.
