Domaine Tariquet Bas-Armagnac VSOP

An indulgent Domain Tariquet Armagnac that proves the value of fine Armagnac.

Grapes have been growing in the fields of Tariquet for hundreds of years. The region was decimated by the epic Phylloxera blight, but a few hectares of viable vines survived the disease. Jean-Poerre Artaud and his father purchased the estate in 1912. The family ran the château — planting and tending the vines through two world wars. For decades they sold their grapes on the wholesale market and bottled a portion into Wines and Armagnacs for themselves, family, and friends. In 1972 they formalized their family business into a company for the production of true estate Bas-Armagnac. Fans of Armagnac eagerly await each release.

We love Cognac, but Armagnac is usually where the value is these days. But this prime grape region is just south of Cognac and Bordeaux and produces some of the finest distilled Eau de Vie in the world. And it’s aged in the same barrels as its upscale cousin. Domaine Tariquet Bas-Armagnac VSOP is a superior example of the craft. It is comprised of the most traditional combination of varietals for the region — 60% Ugni-blanc and 40% Baco grapes. The Spirit has aged in the cellars of Domain Tariquet for a minimum of seven years, though some older Spirit is included. It’s simply delicious.

Smartass Corner:
Bas-Armagnac is one of the three regions in France where Armagnac can be legally produced. The other two are Armagnac-Ténarèze and Haut-Armagnac.