DESCRIPTION
The Story
At the heart of Bas-Armagnac, Maison Baron Gaston Legrand, founded in Lannepax over a century ago, perpetuates the art of vintage eaux-de-vie. This 1997 vintage perfectly embodies the elegance of the Gascon terroir: a spirit patiently aged in oak barrels for several decades, where time has chiseled every nuance. Today, the Lhéraud family watches over this living heritage, a symbol of rare and timeless expertise.
The Vinification
Distilled at low proof according to the traditional method, this Bas Armagnac 1997 has aged for a long time in Gascon oak barrels. The natural porosity of the wood allows for subtle micro-oxygenation, promoting the harmonization of aromas and the softening of tannins. The sandy-clay soils rich in iron oxides, called sables fauves (tawny sands), bring finesse and structure to the eau-de-vie. This slow maturation develops a deep aromatic palette, where fruity, spicy, and vanilla notes are balanced, while maintaining a round and elegant texture.
The Tasting
This Bas Armagnac 1997 captivates with its amber color with coppery reflections and its expressive bouquet of dried fig, walnut, and vanilla. On the palate, it reveals a warm richness and a perfect balance, carried by silky tannins and aromas of dried fruits and sweet spices. The finish is long and pleasant, leaving a persistent sensation of roundness and complexity. Ideal as a digestif, it also pairs well with foie gras, aged cheeses, flambéed meats, and red or dried fruit desserts.
Region
Gascogne
Gascony, a historic territory in southwestern France spanning the Gers, Landes and Lot-et-Garonne, is the birthplace of Armagnac, France's oldest eau-de-vie. This exceptional spirit, crafted since the 14th century, embodies the soul and tradition of this region with its strong character.
Armagnac is divided into three distinct appellations: Bas-Armagnac, the noblest cru with sandy-clay soils (sables fauves) that impart finesse and elegance; Ténarèze, whose clay-limestone soils produce powerful and structured armagnacs; and Haut-Armagnac, with harder clay-limestone soils. These terroirs rest on the Lannemezan alluvial fan, formed from Pyrenean erosion, creating ideal conditions for exceptional eaux-de-vie.
Traditionally distilled in a continuous still at low proof and aged in Gascon or Limousin oak barrels, Armagnac develops a harmonious aromatic palette: plum, prune, candied fruits, walnuts, vanilla, honey, spices, tobacco and noble rancio. Gascony perpetuates an ancestral savoir-faire producing expressive, elegant armagnacs, true witnesses of time and Gascon tradition.