Hennessy VS is one of the most famous Cognacs in the world, the typical bottle shape is iconic. The VS stands for “Very Special” and means that the youngest eaux-de-vie in this blend are at least 2.5 years old.
So that actually means that this Cognac is a rather young one compared to others. The average age is apparently somewhere between 2,5 and 5 years. So if you want to have cognac neat, and like it smooth, you might want to pick a different cognac bottle.
And of course one also pays for the reputation of the Hennessy brand.
To be honest, this is more of a mix drink Cognac, in a way. Quite sharp actually, not very balanced; but not a bad VS Cognac.
But for mixing it with your favorite ingredients (Coke, Tonic water, juice etc.) – it’s a bit expensive. There are other VS (or three star) Cognacs which one could use for cocktails. Hennessy claims that the VS is a blend of 40 different eaux-de-vie, carefully selected from the different crus of the Cognac region.
Tasting Notes & Review of Hennessy VS
Color: is golden
On the nose: strong alcohol scents, very potent, a subtle spiciness with hints of vanilla and oak
The taste: basically sharp, some wood
The finish: is strong and long
The cru: the eaux-de-vie for this Cognac comes from all zones (Grande Champagne, Borderies, Petite Champagne, Fins Bois, Bon Bois, Bois ordinaire)
Age: between 2,5 and 5 years aged in Limousin oak barrels
Price: about € 27 which is $36
By the way, there is a “Obama Edition” called ’44th President of the United States’, a special edition of Hennessy – but make no mistake, it’s the same cognac, in a different bottle.
The VS Cognac (VS for Very Special) comes from the most powerful Cognac house, the Hennessy giant. They dominate about 40% of the world market and are successfully marketing Cognac in the US. The “yak” also plays a certain role in pop culture.
Learn more about the house of Cognac Hennessy and discover their cognacs.
By the way: Famous rapper Kanye West drank a Cognac during a MTV music award (remember?): It was Hennessy VS!
Kanye drank directly from the bottle, rather rough stuff compared to other much smoother Cognacs, and he had it neat.
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5 Comments
Kayne West and the “taking it to the head neat” Hennessy, shows Mr. West real roots! I like this….
That man can afford any fine cognac but he choose the bottom shelf Henny!
VS has a really long nose…that oak smell clings to your nose like a perfect Sunday, good book by the fire place. Tastes so wood…as cognac lover Hennessey is my first experience and best ever. XO is next.
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I’m interested in the Obama edition
I have absolutely no interest in an Obama cognac. It would be disingenuous and brag constantly. In fact I will avoid any Henessy in future.