Bas Armagnac

Bas-Armagnac AOC: Everything You Need to Know About the Spirits of this Appellation

History of the Bas-Armagnac AOC

The Bas-Armagnac AOC, nestled in Gascony in the southwest of France, is renowned for its grape brandies. Considered by many to be of higher quality, this sub-region of the Armagnac AOC offers grape brandies known for their smoothness and aromas. With a distillation tradition dating back to the 14th century, Bas-Armagnac is one of the oldest grape brandies in the world. Officially recognized as an appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) in 1936, Bas-Armagnac consolidates its reputation as a producer of exceptional spirits.

Climate and Terroir of the Bas-Armagnac AOC

Climate: Bas-Armagnac enjoys an oceanic climate influenced by Atlantic air currents, with regular precipitation contributing to the diversity of the terroir. Soils: Famous for its fauve sands, clay, and boulbène soils, Bas-Armagnac produces grape brandies generally softer and fruitier than those from other sub-regions.

Grape Varieties of the Bas-Armagnac AOC

The Bas-Armagnac AOC primarily uses the Ugni Blanc grape variety, known for its ability to produce highly acidic and low-alcohol wines, ideal for distillation. Other grape varieties such as Baco Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard are also used, each adding its own nuances to the grape brandies produced.

Style of Bas-Armagnac AOC Spirits

Appearance: Bas-Armagnac spirits range in color from pale amber to deep brown, often with golden reflections, reflecting their age and aging in oak barrels. Nose: Complex and captivating, these spirits release aromas of ripe fruits, vanilla, cocoa, often accompanied by spicy and woody notes. Palate: Rich and velvety, with flavors of plum, hazelnut, and caramel, these grape brandies offer a warm and persistent finish. The fine nuances and increased complexity of Bas-Armagnac spirits, due to the terroir, make them elegant and smooth on the palate.

Serving Temperature: Between 18 and 20 °C.

Aging Potential: Excellent. Bas-Armagnac spirits can be stored for centuries under good conditions.

Best Pairings with Bas-Armagnac

Although Bas-Armagnac can be enjoyed alone as a digestif, it can be beautifully paired with:

• Truffles
• Blue cheese (such as Roquefort)
• Dark chocolate
• Glazed chestnuts
• Foie gras
• Cigar