Francis Darroze Armagnac Les Grands Assemblages 12 Year 750ml

Francis Darroze boisterous 12-year-old Bas Armagnac blended and bottled by the incomparable Darroze as part of their Grands Assemblages range. Hints of liquorice and cinnamon here, this really blossoms after a minute or two breathing in the glass.

Francis darroze has been described as the pope of bas Armagnacs and is widely recognized as the top producer in the region. Darroze owns no vineyard, instead works with small growers aging the spirits in his own cellars.

The end product is totally authentic, each bottle is hand-drawn and bottled from its original aging cask. Francis refuses to blend casks from the same domaine or same vintage feeling that this would diminish each cask’s individual charm and integrity. Darroze also refuses to add water to his brandies.

Each cask is carefully monitored and tested regularly to adequately judge its maturation and evolution. The results speak for themselves. This is why the bas-Armagnacs of darroze are served in the world’s best restaurants and sold in the finest stores.

This grand blend begins to show the aromas of aging after 10 years of staying in contact with the oak. The fruit that is still present is accompanied by initial aromas of soft spices such as liquorice and cinnamon.

Still quite fresh and fiery, this Armagnac blend will become more complex after it has been left to breathe in your glass for a few minutes.

NOSE:

Rich but with a zesty character fruit cake, with candied fruit and sultanas, delicate spice, and a drizzle of citrus.

PALATE:

Dry and fragrant at first, with delicate floral notes gradually revealing toffee sweetness and a darker, coffee and burnt sugar background.

FINISH:

Long, with sweet grapes and sharp apple fading to lingering spice.

COMMENT:

A complex Armagnac with a range of well-aged and youthful flavors.