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Armagnac, France’s oldest Brandy: Six hundred years old and still no respect
Story written 6 March 2008
First sold as a magic elixir with medicinal qualities that suggested alchemy, the Armagnac made by hundreds of small, independent Armagnac producers is recognized today as one of the world’s great liquors.
Vintage Armagnac
Unblended, vintage Armagnac can be aged from several years to as many as 100 years. Most of the better quality Armagnac has been aged for a minimum of 20 years. Photo Collection B.N.I.A. (Bureau National Interprofessionnel de l’Armagnac).
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Armagnac chai
After distillation, Armagnac is first aged in 400-430 liter (105-115 gallon) oak barrels before being placed in glass bottles. The tannins from the oak are dissolved in the brandy as it slowly oxidizes with the air coming through the wood. Evaporation from inside the barrel, which results in a loss of 2-3% of the Armagnac per year, is known as “le part des anges” (“the angel’s share”). Photo Collection B.N.I.A. (Bureau National Interprofessionnel de l’Armagnac).
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Tom Fiorina has been a member since 6 February 2008 and goes by Gascon.
