How does Armagnac differ from Cognac?

Besides the region (Armagnac is from Gascony in southern France), the main difference is the distillation. Cognac uses double distillation, while Armagnac traditionally uses a single continuous distillation in an Armagnacais Column Still. This retains more original grape flavors and oils, making the style bolder and more robust.

Is Armagnac the oldest brandy in France?

Yes. Armagnac has a distillation history dating back to the 14th century, which is about 200 years earlier than Cognac, making it the oldest distilled spirit still produced in France.

Why are Armagnac Vintage bottles so common?

Unlike Cognac, which is often a blend of years, Armagnac is famous for single-year Vintage bottlings. This allows drinkers to taste the specific terroir and climate of a particular year, making it highly valuable for birth-year gifts or collectors.

What are the typical flavor characteristics of Armagnac?

Armagnac typically shows rich notes of dried fruits like prunes and apricots, nuts, caramel, and distinct wood and spice notes. Compared to the elegance of Cognac, Armagnac emphasizes rustic fruit power and a full-bodied texture.

Collection: Armagnac

Armagnac: The Soul of Gascony, the Art of Time

Armagnac is France's oldest Brandy, with historical records predating the well-known Cognac by approximately 150 years. Produced in the Gascony region of southwest France, it is the home of the musketeer D'Artagnan and a paradise for spirit making. Unlike the large-scale commercialization and blending aesthetics of Cognac, Armagnac is more like an artisan with a distinct personality, insisting on unique Single Distillation and a bottling philosophy that emphasizes Vintage, resulting in a profile that is rich in texture, layered, and full of vitality.

▼ Click to read more: 700 years of history, the secrets of single distillation, three major regions, and essential brands

History: 'Eau de Vie' dating back to 1310

The history of Armagnac can be traced back to the 15th century, when Prior Vital du Four documented its 40 medicinal benefits. This spirit brings together the essence of three cultures: Roman viticulture, Celtic cooperage, and Arabic distillation technology. Want to delve deeper into the world of brandy? Refer to our guide: The Past and Present of Brandy: Decoding History and Culture.

Terroir & Grapes: Three Regions and Grape Varieties

The Armagnac appellation is divided into three parts, each with soil (Terroir) that imparts a different personality to the spirit:

1. Bas-Armagnac — The Jewel in the Crown

This is the most prestigious region, with soil rich in sand and silt (Boulbènes). The 'eau de vie' produced here is known for its delicacy, elegance, and rich fruity aromas (such as dried prunes and orange peel), making it ideal for long-term aging. Our recommended brands like Darroze and Domaine de Baraillon mostly source their spirits from this area.

2. Ténarèze

The soil is primarily limestone and clay. The spirits here are structured, powerful, and robust. They are spicier when young and require longer aging to reveal their potential for violet and spice notes.

3. Haut-Armagnac

The smallest producer, featuring mainly limestone soil, with a more straightforward style.

Regarding grape varieties, besides the common Ugni Blanc, Armagnac also uses the unique Baco 22A (a phylloxera-resistant hybrid that provides roundness and aging potential) and Folle Blanche (which brings delicate floral notes).

Distillation: The Magic of the Alambic Armagnacais

This is the biggest divide between Armagnac and Cognac. 95% of Armagnac is produced using a small, short-column continuous still — the Alambic Armagnacais — for 'Single Distillation'.

Low-Proof Distillation: The new-make spirit is usually distilled to a lower alcohol concentration (about 52% - 60% ABV, compared to Cognac's 70%+).
Retaining Flavor: A lower alcohol concentration means more 'congeners', aromatic substances, and oils are retained. This makes Armagnac taste thicker and richer than Cognac, with distinct plum, toasted bread, and rustic notes.

Notable Armagnac Houses

In the world of Armagnac, family-run independent estates and Négociants are the true treasures compared to large commercial brands:

Darroze — The Treasure Hunter

Founded by Francis Darroze, they are known as the treasure hunters of the Armagnac world. Darroze insists on 'no water, no color, no chill-filtration', bottling at Cask Strength. They visit micro-farms across Bas-Armagnac to acquire the finest single cask spirits. Each label clearly states the farm name and vintage, representing ultimate terroir transparency.

Domaine de Baraillon — Guardians of Tradition

Located in the heart of Bas-Armagnac, Domaine de Baraillon is a multi-generational family estate (Claverie family). They adhere to traditional crafts and hold a high proportion of old vintage stocks. Their style is deep, concentrated, and famous for intense stewed fruit, dark chocolate, and aged leather aromas.

Aurian — Where History Meets Innovation

Established in 1880, Aurian produces high-quality Armagnac and is also a renowned liqueur producer. Their barrel selection is unique, often finding vintage spirits that showcase incredible floral notes and delicacy, with bottle designs full of classical beauty.

For more on brandy grades (VSOP, XO, Hors d'Âge), you can refer to our article: XO vs VSOP Explained: Understanding Cognac and Brandy Grades.

Alcohol Please brings you a selection of liquid history from Gascony. Whether seeking a birth-year commemorative bottle or the cask-strength impact of Darroze, Armagnac offers a unique experience beyond Cognac.