Janneau XO Grand Armagnac (700ml)

Armagnac is France's oldest brandy, recognised since the Middle Ages for its therapeutic properties. It came into its own in the 15th century, with trade peaking in the 1800s. The region's vineyards were subsequently destroyed by phylloxera, only to be replanted at the beginning of the 20th century. In 1909 a decree was issued under the presidency of a local boy, President Fallières, delimiting the region permitted to produce the brandy, finally defining the Armagnac Appellation Contrôlée and its three regions in 1936.

At Janneau, the oldest of the great Armagnac houses, the spirit is distilled in two different ways: "Armagnacais" (single, continuous distillation) and "Double Distillation" which involves pot stills. In the latter, wine flows from a 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.

The XO is the brand's flagship expression, blending Baco and Ugni Blanc eaux-de-vie from Bas-Armagnac and Ténarèze. While the youngest liquid in the composition is ten years old, others have been resting in oak for more than three decades. Expect aromas of candied plum, reine-claude plum, oak and red fruits and intense but well-balanced flavours hinting at oak, quince and sour cherries with a spicy finish. 40% Alc./Vol.

Other reviews... Rich, comforting caramel and toffee aromas warm the nose. The palate is a bit lighter than the aromas suggest but still rewards with rounded vanilla, cocoa and espresso, fading into nutmeg and mouthwatering lemon peel brightness. 94 points - wineenthusiast.com

Gold Medal / 96 points - International Wine & Spirits Competition 2022