'How to' drink Armagnac
HOW SHOULD ARMAGNAC BE ENJOYED?
To experience the complex equilibrium between the grape, alcohol and tannin, Armagnac must be savoured through the eyes, nose and palate. The first impression is the colour.
Look for a beautiful golden amber that is pleasing to the eye. Note also its clarity and intensity. There is also the aroma, which is one of the most pleasing characteristics of Armagnac. Aromas are as diverse as they are intense, offering a very personal experience with each tasting.
Look for dried fruits (ripe and preserved orange, prune, apricot, apple, pear), spices (vanilla, cocoa, cinnamon, pepper), toasted (coffee, tobacco, leather), almond and hazelnuts, wood (oak, cedar, hickory), herbal (fern, violet, jasmine, tea) and floral (dried flowers).
To suit individual preferences, Armagnacs also differ in weight and texture, ranging from light to medium and full-bodied.
Finally, a fine Armagnac has a lengthy finish, which begins after the first swallow. This is indicative of purity, concentration and balance.
