Extra Extra Old Armagnac
44.8% Cask Strength • Single Cask • Older than an XO, hence XXO Extra Extra Old • 500ml • Limited to 170 bottles • Release Date: 30th March • RRP: $159
In 1919, Monsieur Charles Garreau purchased the domaine along with a new still. That very still which is now over 100 years old, was used by his grandson and third generation Master Distiller, Charles Garreau, to create this eau de vie from 100% Baco. It was then matured in French oak casks from Gascony in Chateau Garreau’s underground wet cellar, aptly nicknamed ‘the burrow’. A flavour rich Armagnac, best enjoyed with company or paired with your favourite cigar.
The Origin
This Extra Extra Old Armagnac experienced a hotter than usual summer resulting in an extremely low yield, but resulting profile of the grapes and their juice was flavour rich and textural. The grape is 100% Baco and distilled at over 60%abv then immediately filled into a new Gascon Oak cask, also known as ‘Black Oak’.
After some time it was then transferred to an ancient Gascon Oak cask that has housed previous vintages of Armagnac also produced from Baco grapes. It’s entire maturation was in the extremely wet underground cellar at Chateau Garreau, with the cellar admittedly being more like a large burrow with four dirt walls that soak up water from each rainfall to keep a wet and humid environment. A unique offering for what marks our tenth release.
Baco is a hybrid created by Francois Baco the 1890s, following phylloxera. A cross of Folle Blanche and Noah grapes, it is well adapted to the sandy soils of the Bas-Armagnac that produce a fruity, delicate and highly revered eau de vie with great aging potential.
Phylloxera is an insect and pest for grapevines. In the 1860s the phylloxera plague began in France which destroyed most of the vineyards.
Baco
Tasting Notes
Nose:
Dried fruits, figs, raisins and apricot, preserved peaches, tiramisu, a hint of anise.
Taste:
Honeycomb, dates and dried apricot. Espresso, dark chocolate ganache.
Finish:
Dried figs, apricot compote and chocolate ice cream, Medium-long length.
The Process
The journey in selecting this fine spirit from cask to bottle.
