Martell VSOP Cognac
Martell VSOP Cognac — the current 'Aged in Red Barrels' expression — is a 40% ABV (80 proof) cognac in a 750mL bottle, blending eaux-de-vie primarily from the Borderies cru, aged in fine-grained Tronçais 'red barrels' at the ideal maturation stage, available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.
- ABV: 40% (80 proof)
- Size: 750mL
- Age: VSOP — minimum 4 years in oak
- Cru: primarily Borderies (Martell's signature cru), with Grande Champagne
- Barrels: fine-grained 'red barrels' — Tronçais oak previously holding eaux-de-vie 2–8 years
- House: Martell, founded 1715 — the oldest of the great cognac houses
- Distillation: Ugni Blanc grapes, double-distilled in Charentais copper stills
The Red Barrel Difference
Martell's cellar masters age VSOP exclusively in 'red barrels' — fine-grained Tronçais oak casks that have already matured eaux-de-vie for two to eight years, reaching the precise stage where the wood turns reddish and imparts flavor without aggression. The blend leans on the Borderies, the smallest cognac cru and Martell's historic signature, for a softness and plum-like fruit you won't find in Grande Champagne-led blends. Shop our cognac collection, browse the Martell range, or compare other VSOP cognacs on the shelf.
Tasting Notes
True to the house tagline — 'elegance lies in perfect balance.' Red fruits (plum, apricot) and candied lemon peel lead, with vanilla, sweet spice, and toasted oak underneath. Silky and rounded, with a finish that lingers on dried fruit and gentle oak.
How to Enjoy
Neat or on a single cube as a digestif; the balance also makes it a superb cocktail cognac — a VSOP sidecar or a cognac old fashioned lets the Borderies fruit shine. Martell's own serve: over ice with a twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does VSOP mean in cognac?
Very Superior Old Pale — the eaux-de-vie must be aged a minimum of 4 years in oak (Martell's blend skews older).
What are Martell's 'red barrels'?
Fine-grained Tronçais oak casks that previously held eaux-de-vie for 2–8 years, reaching ideal maturation — the wood's reddish color marks the stage, not added coloring.
Where is Martell made?
Cognac, France — the house was founded in 1715, the oldest of the great cognac houses, and favors the Borderies cru.
Is Martell VSOP good for cocktails?
Excellent — its balance and fruit-forward profile make it one of the best cocktail VSOPs (sidecar, old fashioned, French 75).
Experience three centuries of cognac craft — buy Martell VSOP online from Del Mesa Liquor in San Diego, CA.