Bell's Original vs Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle

Side-by-side comparison — price, ABV, scores, tasting notes, pros & cons.

Bell's OriginalHennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle
DistilleryBell'sHennessy
RegionOther Scotch
CountryScotlandUnited Kingdom
TypeBlended
ABV40%40%
AgeNASNAS
Price£18.75£13.95
Rating2.75/5

Bell's Original

Smoke64/100
Sweetness45/100
Beginner75/100
Value100/100

Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle

Smoke0/100
Sweetness68/100
Beginner100/100
Value0/100

Bell's Original

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle

SmokySweetFruitySpicyWoodyFloral

Quick verdict

Bell's Original is rated higher (2.75 vs 0.00).

Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle is better value at £14 vs £19.

For beginners: Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle is more approachable (100/100 beginner score).

Bell's Original

Pros

  • +Balanced smoky character without being overwhelming
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +Better value for money
  • +Higher community rating (2.8/5)

Cons

  • More expensive (£18.75 vs £13.95)

Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle

Pros

  • +Approachable and beginner-friendly sweetness
  • +Great entry point for new whisky drinkers
  • +More affordable (£13.95 vs £18.75)

Cons

  • Lower community rating (0.0 vs 2.8)
  • Lacks smoke character compared to the alternative

Who should buy Bell's?

Bell's Original suits whisky enthusiasts looking for a well-rounded, complex dram. It rewards those with some experience and an appreciation for Other Scotch character.

Who should buy Hennessy?

Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle is an ideal first whisky — sweet, approachable, and widely available. It's a great gift and a safe choice for anyone new to whisky or who prefers lighter, friendlier drams.

Tasting notes

Only Bell's Original

SmokeyFresh FruitHay-likeMalt Extract

Only Hennessy VS Cognac / Small Bottle

VanillaHoneyToasted

Explore more