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 Kayne West drank a cognac during a MTV music award (remember?): It was Hennessy VS!
Kayne drank directly from the bottle, rather rough stuff compared to other much smoother cognacs, and he had  it neat.