Hennessy VSOP Privilege Cognac
Hennessy VSOP Privilege Cognac is the original V.S.O.P — the category itself was born in 1817 when the future King George IV of Great Britain ordered a "Very Superior Old Pale" cognac from Maison Hennessy. At 40% ABV (80 proof), it blends more than 60 eaux-de-vie from Cognac's four premier growing areas — Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies and Fins Bois — matured in seasoned French oak casks that have given up their bolder tannins, some components reaching 15 years. A 750mL bottle. Order cognac online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 40% (80 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: VSOP — youngest eaux-de-vie at least 4 years; blend includes components up to 15 years
- Origin: Cognac, France — Maison Hennessy (LVMH)
- Production: 60+ eaux-de-vie; seasoned French oak; Fillioux family blending lineage
Two Centuries of the King's Order
A royal commission in 1817 set the template every VSOP since has followed — and Hennessy's remains the benchmark. The Grande and Petite Champagne eaux-de-vie give it structure and finesse, the Borderies and Fins Bois give it roundness and fruit, and the seasoned oak keeps everything silky rather than woody. Explore more Hennessy cognacs up to the legendary XO, or browse the cognac collection to taste how other houses interpret the style.
Tasting Notes
House-aligned notes: fresh fruit and suppleness with vanilla, cinnamon and candied fruit on the nose; juicy fruits, vanilla, mild tobacco and honey on a silky palate; a soft, round, warm and enduring finish.
How to Enjoy
The classic cognac cocktail base — a Sidecar or French 75 built on VSOP Privilege is the real thing. Neat, it is smooth enough for newcomers and structured enough for connoisseurs.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does V.S.O.P mean? Very Superior Old Pale — the youngest eaux-de-vie in the blend is at least 4 years old; in Hennessy's blend many are far older.
Is Hennessy VSOP really the original? The V.S.O.P category traces to Hennessy's 1817 commission from the future King George IV — it is widely called the original V.S.O.P.
What's the difference between VSOP and XO? Age and depth: VSOP blends are younger and brighter; XO (like Hennessy's 1870 original) uses older eaux-de-vie for a deeper, more complex cognac.
The king's cognac, two centuries on — order Hennessy VSOP Privilege online from Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.