As the famous saying goes, not all brandy is cognac, but all cognac is brandy. In other words, cognac is a type of brandy, made specifically in the Cognac region of France. It’s essentially what champagne is to sparkling wine. What does VSOP mean for brandy? Sugar, Cocoa Mass, Liqueur Filling (23%) (Glucose Syrup, Invert Sugar Syrup, Alcohol, Sugar), Morello Cherries (16%) (Sour Cherries, Alcohol, Sugar), Cocoa Butter, Emulsifier: Lecithins (𝐒𝐨𝐲𝐚); Butter Oil (𝐌𝐢𝐥𝐤). Contains Cocoa Solids 50% Minimum. While a VSOP cognac must be aged for a minimum of four years, an XO or “extra old” cognac requires a minimum of 10 years (up from six years, as of 2018). However, this legally only applies to cognac and armagnac, so you’ll still find the term used widely on other French brandy to demonstrate that it's “extra old”. Like Scotch whisky, older expressions are often considered “better”, but as with anything, it comes down to your personal preference. How we test brandy Caution: contains alcohol. Warning: Although every effort has been made to remove stones, some small stones or fragments may remain.

They were looking for well-balanced examples, from light and fruity through to more mature examples with oak ageing. Those awarded top marks had a smooth mouthfeel, well-integrated alcohol and complex sweetness. VSOP stands for “very superior old pale” and means the youngest brandy in the blend has been aged for at least four years. Is VSOP or XO better?For allergens, see ingredients in bold. may also contain nuts, egg and gluten sources (wheat and barley).