Janneau XO Armagnac (700ml)

Armagnac is the oldest brandy made in France. Recognised in the Middle-Ages for its therapeutic properties, Armagnac came into its own in the 15th century, growing to become a truly commercial product. The vines of Armagnac were destroyed by phylloxera in the 1870's but were re planted at the beginning of the 20th century. Trading in Armagnac reached its peak in the 19th century. It was in 1909 that a decree, issued under the presidency of a local boy, President Fallières, delimited the region permitted to produce this brandy. The decree of August 6th, 1936 defines the Armagnac Appellation Contrôlée and its three regions.

At Janneau, the oldest of the great Armagnac houses, Armagnac is blended from spirit distilled in two different ways: "Armagnacais" >(single, continuous distillation) and "Double Distillation" which involves pot stills. In Double Distillation, wine flows from the vat to the first still acting as the cooling agent and allowing the vapours to condense. This first product is called "brouillis" and is distilled again, however the liquid at the very beginning and end of the process (called the "head & tail") is left out as it contains some impurities. Only the heart – that part which achieves the desired quality – is kept. The freshly distilled Armagnac is clear, decidedly fruity with occasional plum, green apple and vanilla notes.

Grand Armagnac Janneau is distilled from white wines made from grapes gathered exclusively in the delimited region of Armagnac in the heart of Gascony and is aged in casks of Gascon oak. The different characterstics of white wines emanating from grapes grown on sandy soil and those from clay and chalk, aswell as two methods of distillation result in Janneau’s marrying finnesse and softness with fruit and character. The X.O. Royal is supervised and sampled throughout its twelve years of aging to ensure a final blend which is both subtle and full of charm. 40% alc./vol

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