With The Three Drinkers in Cognac exploring the stunning liquid that is cognac as well as its picturesque namesake surroundings, we thought it was about time we went into detail about what those letters on cognac and other brandy bottles mean. We’ve covered VS and VSOP cognac before and now it’s time for XO!
What is XO Cognac?
Whereas, VS (Very Special) is the youngest age statement of cognac and means no liquid in the bottle is younger than two years old, XO Cognac means Extra Old, which in numerical terms means that the liquid has been aged for a minimum of ten years. Some parts of the blend may be older, but ten is the minimum.
Interestingly, this actually changed in 2016 when six years used to be the XO minimum, so if you buy an older XO, you might find that there is in fact liquid younger than ten years old.
How Does XO Cognac differ to VSOP and XXO Cognac?
VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) bottles are quite significantly younger than XO, requiring at least four years of aging. XO (Extra Old) is the next official category along, with ten years of aging needed, and beyond that there is XXO (yep, you guessed it - Extra Extra Old) that must be fourteen years of age.
Cognac masters use different eaux-de-vie of various ages to add different characteristics to the blend, so even though VS and VSOP are more commonly used for cocktails and mixes, it is not as simple as ‘the older the better’. Some VSOP will contain eaux-de-vie that are mostly XO, but may include some much younger liquid for vibrance, thereby categorising it as VSOP.
There are all kinds of unofficial age statements and other terms like Napoleon and hors d’âge so check out our full breakdown of the age statements here (including top recommendations from each!).
So many parts of the production process affect the end product of cognac, but generally the longer cognac sits in the barrel, the richer, nuttier, and more complex it becomes. In the world of cognac, there is a relationship between age and price, with VS usually the most affordable, and XXO and beyond commanding the biggest price tags.
How is XO Cognac drunk?
Whilst the bright and fiery youth of VS blends lend themselves to cocktails, the nuance and complexity of an XO is likely to be lost mixed with such strong ingredients. It would still be delicious, particularly in a simple Highball, but for the money, it’s probably best enjoyed on its own.
When we say on its own, we mean either neat as an aperitif, or with a few drops of water as some drinkers enjoy. This, like a little ice, dilutes the cognac slightly for a smoother experience and often reveals new aromas such as fruity, floral, and/or spicy notes. If the XO is good quality (like below), you will want to slowly sip and find your way around the liquid and its layers without intensely flavoured mixers… but as is the golden rule with drinking, enjoy it in whatever way you enjoy it!
Which XO Cognac should I try?
Courvoisier XO
A timeless classic with layers of complexity from aged eaux-de-vie from all across the Cognac growing regions. Oak-y throughout, the nose of apricot opens out into silky smooth berries with delectable orange to finish. This is a serial award-winning XO for a reason!
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £114.95 // US $189.99
Rémy Martin XO
This Grande and Petite Champagne blend is masterful from grape to glass. Vanilla, caramel and warm spice weave harmoniously in a rich and sophisticated XO. This alongside a few squares of dark chocolate is a dream.
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £174.99 // US $249.99
Prunier Tres Vieille XO
Unbelievably soft, this Prunier Tres Vieille XO fills the mouth with elegant richness, including some more unusual leather and white pepper notes alongside a tarte tatin reminiscence to die for.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £170
Hine Antique XO Cognac
Dating back to 1715, Martell is the oldest cognac house, and this XO radiates those generations of expertise. Mellow and soft in the mouth, it’s fragrant with citrus, walnut and blossom and every sip feels like a treat (exactly what you want from an XO).
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: UK £182.99 // US $264.99
Maxime Trijol XO
Spiced orange and caramel swirl together in this gem of an XO that also provides pretty impressive value. It’s dry, fruity, and lined with vanilla butterscotch for complete indulgence. Many cognac aficionados return to this as their regular sipper!
Size: 700ml
ABV: 40%
Find here: £102.99
Frapin Château de Fontpinot XO Cognac
Winner of the prestigious Master award for Single Cru XO in 2018, this Grand Champagne blend is moreishly fruity and floral with terrific poise. Subtle nuts and oaky vanilla round off a characterful and distinct XO that’s bursting with flavour.
Size: 700ml
ABV: 41%
Find here: £134.99
Jean Fillioux Grande Reserve XO Cognac
At a lip-smacking 44%, this is a bold and powerful single Cru XO that is masterfully balanced. Oak, vanilla, and orange all work with one another and for under £100, you just don’t get XO cognac much better.
Size: UK 700ml // US 750ml
ABV: 44%
Find here: UK £91.75 // US $138.99
For more information about the rich world of cognac, check out the Beginner’s Guide (or The Three Drinkers in Cognac of course!)