A top quality VSOP armaganc from Baron de Sigognac, this is from the Bas Armagnac region and has spent six months in new casks, followed by seven years in old oak casks, meaning that technically it could qualify as an XO under the current rules.
Coppery topaz in the glass with a characterful, intense, vibrant nose showing candied chestnut and dried currants mingled with luscious oaky notes of cigar box and sandalwood. Very mellow, complex palate. With more than 175 years of experience, devotion and work, the Castarède family knows how to select the best possible Bas Armagnac grapes in addition to growing its own, on its estates in the region. After fermentation into a fine acidic, light wine, the crucial distillation process follows in Armagnac stills. Maturation is in oak barrels for twenty years, which is more than three times the statutory minimum for XO Armagnac.
A resplendent colour with hints of mahogany. An intense, complex nose of orange preserve, rancio, honey and Madagascan pepper. The enticing power of the attack and the density of flavour on the palate are matched by a growing spiciness which is strong without ever being overwhelming. The complex rancio ties the various elements together into a coherent whole, with a long, smooth finish replete with dried fruit flavours (pineapple, apple, grape).
Domaine Boignires has been in family ownership for generations and the spirits are still aged in a mix of first-fill and refill oak barrels. Only the finest eaux-de-vie are selected for bottling as vintage Armagnacs. The 1985 is made from wines made from Folle Blanche and Colombard – some of the most characterful and costly inputs to this kind of brandy. It shows a mature profile of spices (nutmeg, cinnamon, anise) and dried fruit (apricot, cherry) and some cacao and tobacco. The palate is full and the finish is deceptively long.
Domaine Boingneres Domaine Boingneres Bas Armagnac 1975
$5,050.00
The Boingnères Armagnacs are distilled to 52% (allowing the maximum of congeners to pass over into the spirit) and then aged in a very specific manner. Half of the new spirit is put into new charred casks of local oak—up to 15 casks per year—and aged for two years, before it is transferred to older wood. The other half goes into 2 year old barrels where it remains until required for blending and bottling.
A very beautiful golden colour with copper tints. aromatic and fresh. the nose is intense with notes of dried fruits, almonds, apricot and stones. the finish is harmonious and generous. a frank and perfectly balanced spirit.
Immense care and preparation by Mr. Gérard Laberdolive has resulted in him being acclaimed as one of the region's top producers. His Armagnacs are rich and heady yet lacking any harshness. In particular the older vintages are a connoisseurs delight.
