Armagnac and Cognac: Why Does Armagnac Deserve A Place of Choice?

When we think of world-famous French spirits, cognac often gets most of the attention. However, another hidden treasure, Armagnac, deserves equal, if not greater, recognition for its richness, history and complexity. In this article, we'll delve into the nuances that distinguish Armagnac from cognac and discover why Armagnac deserves a special place in the hearts of spirits lovers.

Origin and Terroir

Cognac: Cognac takes its name from the town of Cognac, located in the Charente department in southwest France. Its production region is divided into six main zones: Grande Champagne, Petite Champagne, Borderies, Fins Bois, Bons Bois and Bois Ordinaires.

Armagnac: Located further south, Armagnac comes mainly from the Gascony region, encompassing the departments of Gers, Landes and Lot-et-Garonne. Its production region is segmented into three zones: Bas-Armagnac, Haut-Armagnac and Ténarèze.

The difference in terroir influences the flavor profile of the two spirits, with Armagnac often offering more robust and rustic notes compared to Cognac.

Distillation Process

One of the most notable differences between the two is their distillation method.

Cognac: Distilled twice using Charentais copper stills, giving it a lighter, smoother texture.

Armagnac: It is generally distilled once using a column still, producing a richer and more powerful spirit on the palate.

Aging

Armagnac is often aged longer than Cognac, which contributes to its deep character and complex aromas. Additionally, Armagnac is typically stored in barrels made from local black oak, which imbue the spirit with distinct notes of prune, fig and walnut.

Diversity and Uniqueness

Although Cognac is globally recognized, Armagnac offers greater variety in terms of flavor profiles and textures. Each Armagnac producer has their own approach, resulting in a multitude of unique spirits, reflecting the terroir, know-how and passion of the region.

Conclusion

While Cognac enjoys well-deserved global recognition, Armagnac, with its richness, depth and diversity, deserves just as much, if not more, attention. For spirits lovers looking for an authentic and unique experience, Armagnac offers an unrivaled tasting experience that transcends time and history.