The VS (Very Special) category is often a drinker’s first encounter with Cognac—but the best examples go far beyond an entry-level experience. At the 2025 San Francisco World Spirits Competition, top producers demonstrated that youth doesn’t mean lack of complexity. From cozy baking spice to delicate florals, this year’s finalists in the Cognac VS category prove that age is just one part of the story.

A boutique producer rooted in the heart of the Cognac region, Haut de Vigne brings a thoughtful, terroir-driven approach to its distillation. Known for small-batch releases and attention to aromatic detail, the brand is quietly becoming a standout among discerning Cognac drinkers.

This Cognac VS highlights the warm, comforting side of the spirit. It’s expressive and inviting, showing off the potential of young Cognac when treated with care.

One of the last great family-owned Cognac houses, CAMUS is celebrated for its bold aromatics and consistent quality across expressions. La Grande Marque reflects the house’s dedication to elegance and sensory complexity, even in its youngest offerings.

The Very Spécial is a refined and floral-forward VS that surprises with its aromatic lift and fruit-driven palate. It’s a refreshing interpretation of what Cognac VS can be.

This year’s Cognac VS winners show that quality and character don’t require decades in barrel. Whether you’re exploring neat pours, building a high-end Sidecar, or simply discovering Cognac for the first time, these expressions offer brilliant introductions to the category.