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Hennessy VS

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Hennessy VS (Very Special) is a quintessential expression of the world’s most popular cognac brand, celebrated for its bold character and smooth versatility. Crafted in Cognac, France, it blends eaux de vie aged a minimum of two years, offering toasty, fruity aromas and a rich palate of vanilla and dried fruit. Ideal for sipping neat or as a cocktail base, it captures the heritage and innovation of Hennessy, a house established in 1765. 

TL;DR – As a global icon, Hennessy VS remains a timeless choice, appealing to seasoned cognac enthusiasts and new drinkers alike.

Review: Flavor Camp

Photo: Reece Sims

Flavor Camps

Overall Rating

Total Score: 41.5/50

Aroma: 7.5/9
Taste: 7.5/9
Finish: 4/5
Distinctiveness: 4/5
Overall Drinkability/Balance: 7.5/9
Value for Price: 7/8
Appearance: 4/5

Tasting Notes

  • Appearance: Amber
  • Aroma: Wood and spice dominate the nose. Notes of white pepper, marzipan, toasted almonds and pears emerge with white florals, apricot, vanilla oak, clove and nougat coming in waves.
  • Taste & Mouthfeel: The palate is delightfully rugged and spicy. Toasted oak, nutmeg, black pepper and baked apples dominate.
  • Finish: The finish is moderately long.
  • Distinctiveness: Compared to the other "big four" cognac brands' VS expression, Hennessy displays a lot more wood and spice which is distinctive.
  • Overall Drinkability & Balance: This is a must-have for those looking for a cognac on their home bar. Because of its ruggedness, it works fantastically as the base in cocktails where some other cognacs and many other brandies could get lost.

Product Details

  • Distiller: Hennessy (LVMH)
  • Type: VS Cognac
  • Age: Minimum 2 years
  • Still Type: Charentais Copper Pot Still
  • Cask Type(s): New Oak (French)
  • Origin: Cognac, France
  • Composition: Ugni Blanc Grapes
  • ABV: 43%
  • Made from a blend of over 40 different eaux-de-vie, all of which are aged for at least two years in French oak barrels
  • Price: $55-75 CAD (2024)

Comments / Notes:

  • Hennessy VS is our partner for the November 2024 Flavor Camp Cocktail Challenge
  • Crushable / Daily Drinker
  • Cocktail Worthy
  • Special Occasion Sipper Only
  • Weird & Wonderful
  • Skip It


Food Pairing Recommendations: Any grilled meat, dark chocolate desserts

Flavor Camp Cocktail Icons (2)


Cocktail Recommendations: The possibilities are endless!

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