What is Armagnac? Understanding its Composition

What exactly is Armagnac?

Armagnac is Cognac's big brother: older, more artisanal, and with a strong character! But what creates the aromatic richness and unique taste of this wine spirit? Grape varieties, distillation, aging... We explain everything about its composition.

1. The grape varieties that give birth to Armagnac Armagnac isn't made with just any grape! Four main grape varieties are used in its composition:

• Ugni Blanc: the most widespread, also found in Cognac. It brings finesse and acidity, perfect for aging.
• Baco Blanc: a grape variety unique to Armagnac, which gives body and fruity aromas.
• Folle Blanche: rarer, but highly prized for its elegant floral notes.
• Colombard: a slightly spicy and fruity character that adds complexity.

2. The terroirs of Armagnac Armagnac is divided into three distinct terroirs, each bringing its own identity to the spirits.

Bas-Armagnac, located in the west, is the most renowned for its sandy-silty soils that produce fine, elegant, and fruity spirits. Located at an altitude between 60 and 120 meters, it is also nicknamed "Black Armagnac" due to its numerous oak forests.

Armagnac-Ténarèze, in the center, rests on clay-limestone soils, producing more powerful and structured armagnacs, ideal for long aging.

Finally, Haut-Armagnac, to the east, is the highest and largest area, but also the least planted. Its limestone soils, which earned it the nickname "White Armagnac," produce rarer and often lighter spirits.

In short, each Armagnac has its personality, and that's what makes it so charming!

3. A distillation that changes everything Armagnac is distilled in a very particular way: in a single pass, in an Armagnac still. Unlike Cognac, which undergoes double distillation, here we keep a maximum of aromas!

The alcohol comes out of the still at 52-60°, which makes it very expressive even before going into the barrel.

4. Aging: the step that makes all the difference After distillation, Armagnac goes into Gascon oak barrels, where it will slowly evolve. This is where it takes on its golden color and develops woody, vanilla, and spicy notes.

Armagnac categories according to age

• VS (Very Special): at least 1 year in barrel, ideal for cocktails.
• VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale): minimum 4 years, more roundness.
• XO (Extra Old): 10 years or more, rich and complex.
• Vintage: aged several decades, unique and collectible.

The longer it ages, the smoother it becomes and the more aromas it accumulates... and the more irresistible it becomes!

Armagnac is generally bottled at an alcohol content of 40%, which is the legal minimum. However, some versions, particularly the cask strength vintages, can have a higher alcoholic content, often between 45% and 50%, depending on their aging and natural evaporation, which bears the sweet name of "angels' share."

Armagnac, a question of balance In summary, Armagnac is a clever blend of grape varieties, a unique distillation, and masterful aging. Each bottle tells a story and offers a different tasting experience.

Ready to taste? Discover our selection of artisanal Armagnacs and Bas-Armagnacs!