Crafted in Jarnac, France

Country of Origin: France
Style: VS Cognac
ABV: 40%
Bottle Size: 70cl

Description

Courvoisier VS is one of the world’s most recognisable cognacs, carrying a legacy built on French craftsmanship, imperial history, and its famous title as “The Cognac of Napoleon.” Produced in Jarnac, in the heart of France’s Cognac region, this elegant VS expression is crafted to deliver a vibrant, approachable style with notes of fresh fruit, spring flowers, and delicate oak.

The Origins: From Paris to Cognac Country

The Courvoisier story began in 1809 when Emmanuel Courvoisier and Louis Gallois established a wine and spirits business in Bercy, a thriving trading district just outside Paris.

Rather than simply producing spirits, the pair specialised in sourcing and maturing exceptional cognacs from the Charente region, building a reputation among Parisian society for quality and consistency.

The Napoleon Legend

Courvoisier’s most famous chapter is forever linked to Emperor Napoleon Bonaparte.

In 1811, Napoleon is said to have visited the Courvoisier warehouses in Bercy and developed an appreciation for the quality of their cognac. According to legend, he later ensured supplies travelled with his armies as a luxury ration for morale.

Following Napoleon’s defeat in 1815, the story continued aboard HMS Bellerophon, the British ship that carried him into exile. British officers reportedly discovered the cognac onboard and referred to it as “The Brandy of Napoleon” — a nickname that would become central to Courvoisier’s worldwide reputation.

Moving to Jarnac

In 1828, Félix Courvoisier and Jules Gallois, sons of the founders, moved the business from Paris to Jarnac in the Cognac region.

This important move allowed the house to work closer to the vineyards, distillers, and ageing cellars responsible for creating the spirit. The famous Courvoisier Château, overlooking the Charente River, became a lasting symbol of the brand’s heritage.

The Craft Behind Courvoisier VS

VS stands for “Very Special,” meaning the youngest eau-de-vie within the blend has been matured for a minimum of two years in French oak barrels.

Courvoisier VS is created from carefully selected eaux-de-vie, mainly from the Fins Bois and Bons Bois crus, chosen for their expressive fruit character and approachable style.

Through careful blending, Courvoisier creates a cognac that balances youthful vibrancy with classic French oak influence, delivering a smooth and versatile spirit suitable for sipping or mixing.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Fresh orchard fruits, spring blossom, soft vanilla, and subtle toasted oak.

Palate: Smooth and lively with ripe fruit, gentle caramel sweetness, light spice, and delicate wood notes.

Finish: Clean and warming with lingering fruit, soft spice, and refined oak character.

Perfect Serve

Courvoisier VS can be enjoyed neat, over ice, or as the foundation for classic cognac cocktails.

For a refreshing signature serve, pour 50ml Courvoisier VS over ice in a tall glass, top with premium ginger ale, and garnish with a fresh orange wedge to highlight the cognac’s fruity, floral character.

For a timeless cocktail experience, use Courvoisier VS in a Sidecar, combining cognac, orange liqueur, and fresh lemon juice for a beautifully balanced sweet and citrus serve.