Gift Idea: Vintage Armagnac from their year of birth

Armagnac is considered to be the classic of the fine brandies. It is often referred to as a close relative of Cognac, which is not always the case. Whereas Cognac was first recorded to have existed in the 17th century, the history of Armagnac dates back to 1461.

The Armagnac region is situated in Gascony, in southwest France. The vintage takes place in mid to late October. After fermentation, the young wine begins the distillation process. Unlike Cognac, which is distilled twice in a sealed blister, Armagnac is ‘burnt' in one single procedure. Some of the alcohol evaporates whilst it is stored in the barrel. Oxygen and various tannins permeate through the wooden barrel into this fine drink giving it its flavour and its noble character.

Vintage Armagnac ("millésimés") is a special rarity among brandies. While an Armagnac usually consists of several vintage distillates, all base wines of a vintage Armagnac are actually from a single vintage. Thanks to its long aging in oak barrels, a vintage Armagnac is incredibly enjoyable and makes for an absolutely extraordinary gift.