Courvoisier

Courvoisier is one of the four great Cognac houses, founded in 1809 and producing from Jarnac in the Charente. Known as “The Cognac of Napoleon” — a title earned when Napoleon III selected Courvoisier to supply his personal court — Courvoisier uses a distinctive light, floral, and fruit-forward house style that sets it apart from the richer, heavier profiles of Hennessy and Rémy Martin.

Courvoisier sources eaux-de-vie primarily from the Fins Bois, Petite Champagne, and Grande Champagne crus, blending them for elegance and approachability across the lineup. The VS is the most widely used Cognac in cocktails after Hennessy; the XO is consistently one of the most decorated expressions at its price point.

The Courvoisier Lineup

Courvoisier VS — Minimum 2 years aging. Light, fresh, and fruit-forward — the most approachable and cocktail-versatile Courvoisier expression. Courvoisier VSOP — Minimum 4 years aging. Floral, fruity, and balanced — the ideal everyday sipping tier. Vanilla, dried fruit, and subtle spice. Courvoisier XO — Minimum 10 years aging. The prestige core expression — rich, complex, and refined with dried fruit, leather, chocolate, and a long, warming finish. Courvoisier Napoleon — Between VSOP and XO in aging, offering a balanced profile with the elegance the brand is known for. Courvoisier Initiale Extra — The ultra-premium pinnacle of the lineup. Selected from the oldest and finest Courvoisier eaux-de-vie for exceptional complexity and rarity.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Courvoisier called the Cognac of Napoleon?

Napoleon III selected Courvoisier to supply his imperial court in the mid-19th century, earning the brand the title that has defined its identity ever since. The association with Napoleon Bonaparte (his nephew) came later through marketing, but the imperial court connection is genuine historical fact.

How does Courvoisier differ from Hennessy?

Both are major Cognac houses but with distinctly different house styles. Hennessy blends over 100 eaux-de-vie for a rich, full-bodied profile. Courvoisier uses a lighter, more floral and fruit-forward approach — typically described as more elegant and delicate. Courvoisier XO and Hennessy XO represent the clearest comparison point at the premium tier.

Which Courvoisier is best for cocktails?

Courvoisier VS — its light, fresh, and fruit-forward character works well in Sidecars, French 75s, and Cognac-based Sazeracs without overpowering the other ingredients. VSOP is the better choice for drinks where Cognac is the primary flavor.