How to Buy Armagnac
Armagnac is a type of brandy produced in the Armagnac region just north of Bordeaux, France. Not to be confused with its popular sibling Cognac, Armagnac has more full flavors and a lower alcohol content than Cognac---perfect for warming your bones on a cold winter night.
- Difficulty:
- Easy
Instructions
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1
Learn how Armagnac is produced. Armagnac is made form distilled white wine grapes, generally Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, Colombard and Bacco varieties.
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2
Know what makes Armagnac different from Cognac. Armagnac is distilled once while Cognac is distilled twice. Armagnac is aged in wood, which lends to the spirit's caramel and amber color.
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3
Understand how distilling affects flavor. Distilling Armagnac just once results in a lower alcohol content than Cognac. This allows for Armagnac's flavors to become more balanced and round.
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4
Discover VS Armagnac. VS stands for Very Superior and means that it has spent a minimum of two years casked in wood. Despite its label, Very Superior Armagnac is said to be an inferior to the others because two years is not sufficient for the flavors and aromas to develop.
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5
Study about VSOP and Reserve Armagnac. VSOP means Very Special Old Pale. Armagnac with the VSOP and Reserve labels are aged in wood for a minimum of 5 years.
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6
Find out about XO and Napoleon Armagnac. XO stands for Extra Old. Both XO and Napoleon Armagnac are aged in wood for a minimum of 6 years.
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7
Become familiar with Hors d Age Armagnac. This is Armagnac that is "beyond age" or Armagnac that is too old to determine its age. It is aged in wood for a minimum of 10 years.
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Tips & Warnings
Hold a glass of Armagnac in you hands as you are sipping it. The warming effect will release additional flavors and aromas.
Use the proper glass. Chose a glass with a wider bowl than lip. Think of the shape of an Aperitif glass; this is the glass shape most recommended by Sommeliers.
Don't use a Brandy Snifter glass. The large bowl shape of this glass prevents you from experiencing the full flavors and aromas of Armagnac because the heat and the scent of alcohol overtake them.
