Distiller Notes
Folle Blanche makes up the majority of the family's plantings, and especially shines when it comes from their oldest parcel. In the Château de Briat Bas-Armagnac Folle Blanche 2004 they attempt to showcase what this grape can do when acting solo. They succeed and then some in this attempt: it has a a typically savory/spicy Folle Blanche note, along with vanilla, bergamot and fresh caramel. There is something pleasantly floral about it, and it is very well balanced thanks to its tannins and freshness.
Cardinal Vital Du Four claimed that it “cures gout and cankers, heals wounds of the skin … renders men joyous, preserves youth and retards senility.”
Armagnac is produced in the Gascony region of Southwest France and is among the earliest of spirits produced, prescribed over the last 700 years for a myriad of therapeutic benefits. Owing to its ancient heritage, the production method is much simpler than that of its cousin, Cognac, with just a single distillation through a column still prior to barrel aging. This yields a spirit that is generally more flavorful and fragrant than other Brandies.