Courvoisier VSOP Cognac

Product Description

Courvoisier VSOP Cognac: Silky, Subtly Floral, Aged Up to Twelve Years

Courvoisier VSOP is the cognac of the house that markets itself as “the Cognac of Napoleon.” It’s a blend of eaux-de-vie from four crus, bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof). The brand describes it as “a delicate marriage of four crus for a subtly floral, uniquely complex richness,” aged up to twelve years in its own barrels for hints of gingerbread and a silky finish. VSOP means “Very Superior Old Pale,” and by law the youngest eau-de-vie in the blend must be at least four years old. Courvoisier ages well beyond that.

Courvoisier was founded in 1809 in Bercy, then a suburb of Paris, by Emmanuel Courvoisier and Louis Gallois, who was the mayor of Bercy, and the house has made only Cognac for more than 200 years. VSOP is its middle step, between the bright VS and the deeper XO.

How Courvoisier VSOP Is Made

The cognac begins as wine from Ugni Blanc grapes, which is double-distilled in copper pot stills and aged in French oak. The VSOP blend brings together eaux-de-vie from the Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, and other crus, with a floral, fruity lift. The brand says the longer aging gives it its silky texture and gingerbread note.

Tasting Notes

Courvoisier’s own notes plus retailer and critic descriptions.

Appearance: Deep amber with coppery gold highlights.

Nose: Jasmine and ripe peach, with toasted almond, vanilla, and a hint of butter and sandalwood.

Palate: Vanilla, caramelized fruit, soft honey, and a layer of oak spice, with a hint of gingerbread.

Finish: Silky, medium to long, with warm nuttiness and gentle baking spice.

Wine Enthusiast scored it 92 points, noting cedar, vanilla bean, and peach with a light violet note.

Food Pairings

The brand pairs it with Brie, whose mild decadence balances the floral, nutty cognac. It also goes with dark chocolate, roasted nuts, apple tart, and aged cheeses like Roquefort, or a cigar after dinner.

Serving Suggestions

Serve it neat in a snifter or tulip glass, or on the rocks. It’s also a classic in cocktails: a Sidecar, a Vieux Carré, a French 75, or a cognac and ginger. The VSOP grade is made for both sipping and mixing, which is why it’s popular behind the bar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does VSOP mean? “Very Superior Old Pale.” The youngest eau-de-vie must be at least four years old.

How old is Courvoisier VSOP? Aged up to twelve years, per the brand.

What proof is it? 80 proof (40% ABV).

Is it Fine Champagne? The brand describes a blend of four crus. Some retailers say Fine Champagne, so check the label.

What’s the difference between VS, VSOP, and XO? VS is youngest and brightest, VSOP is richer and silkier, and XO is the oldest and deepest.

Is it good in cocktails? Yes, in a Sidecar or a Vieux Carré.

Is it a good gift? Yes. It’s a historic name with a reliable, easy-drinking profile.

Explore More

Looking for a lighter or younger cognac? Try the Courvoisier VS Cognac. Browse our Cognac collection or our Brandy & Cognac collection for more bottles.

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