Hennessy Very Special (V.S): Bold, Smooth, and Ready to Mix

Hennessy Very Special (V.S) is a classic Cognac known for bold fruit, toasted oak, vanilla, and roasted‑almond notes at 40% ABV, made for sipping neat, on ice, or in easy cocktails. It blends dozens of eaux‑de‑vie and ages them in French oak to create a rich yet lively style that feels both approachable and refined.

What it is

Hennessy V.S is a “Very Special” Cognac, meaning the youngest eau‑de‑vie in the blend is aged at least two years, with some older parcels added for extra smoothness. It is the house’s core expression, often released with limited‑edition artist labels through the year, while the liquid remains consistent and dependable.

Where it’s made

This Cognac is produced by Maison Hennessy (Jas Hennessy & Co.) in Cognac, Charente, France. The region is famous for its chalky soils and Ugni Blanc grapes, which are distilled into eaux‑de‑vie using traditional copper Charentais pot stills before aging in oak.

How it’s crafted

The blend brings together many eaux‑de‑vie matured in French oak, including newer barrels that add toast and vanillin to the profile. The aging builds depth without losing the bright, youthful fruit that makes V.S so versatile and cocktail‑friendly.

Tasting notes

• Nose: Fresh toast, roasted almond, brown sugar, and gentle vine‑fruit with a hint of citrus.

• Palate: Creamy texture with vanilla, oak spice, and grilled almond, balanced by lively fruit; the finish is fresh and lightly floral.

How to enjoy it

• Neat: A short pour in a tulip glass highlights almond, vanilla, and oak spice.

• On ice: A large cube softens the edges and brightens the fruit.

• Highball: 45 ml Hennessy V.S topped with chilled soda or ginger ale, plus a lemon twist.

• Classic cocktails: Sidecar (with lemon and triple sec), French Connection (with amaretto), or a Cognac Old Fashioned with a light touch of bitters.

Key details

• Style: Cognac V.S (youngest eau‑de‑vie aged at least 2 years)

• ABV: 40%

• Cask: French oak, with newer barrels contributing toast and vanilla

• Still: Traditional copper pot stills, double distillation (Charentais method)

• Release: Ongoing core bottling; seasonal artist editions on labels

• Sizes: Commonly 700 ml; also 750 ml and travel formats depending on market

Indicative India pricing (700 ml)

• New Delhi: ₹4,500–₹5,500

• Mumbai: ₹5,200–₹6,200

• Bengaluru: ₹4,800–₹5,800

• Gurugram: ₹4,400–₹5,400

• Hyderabad: ₹5,000–₹6,000

• Kolkata: ₹5,200–₹6,200

• Pune: ₹5,000–₹6,000

Prices vary by store, taxes, and availability; checking current local retail or duty‑free listings helps confirm the latest offer.

Why it stands out

Hennessy V.S delivers a dependable balance of toasted oak, vanilla, and almond wrapped around youthful fruit, making it easy to sip and excellent in mixed drinks. The blend’s French oak influence adds warmth and sweetness, while the fresh finish keeps it lively, which is exactly why it remains a go‑to Cognac for both newcomers and seasoned drinkers.