Francis Darroze Armagnac Les Grands Assemblages 30 Year 750ml

Francis darroze has been described as the pope of bas Armagnacs and is widely recognized as the top producer in the region. Darroze owns no vineyard, instead works with small growers aging the spirits in his own cellars. The end product is totally authentic, each bottle is hand-drawn and bottled from its original aging cask.

Maturity begins at 30. The fresh fruit is transformed into dried and candied fruit, the spicy character asserts itself, the first aromas of « rancio » appear and the alcohol is perfectly mellow. The fiery youth softens and relents. This grand assemblage is the perfect example of the magnificent balance that one finds in Eaux de vie of this age.

A fully mature, spicy 30-year-old Bas Armagnac bottled by Darroze for their Grand Assemblages range. Soft and mellow, with some leathery rancio aromas and flavors.

Francis darroze refuses to blend casks from the same domaine or same vintage feeling that this would diminish each cask’s individual charm and integrity. Darroze also refuses to add water to his brandies.

Each cask is carefully monitored and tested regularly to adequately judge its maturation and evolution. The results speak for themselves. This is why the bas-Armagnacs of darroze are served in the world’s best restaurants and sold in the finest stores.

Maple syrup in color, this has a toffee aroma and flavor, along with notes of dry cocoa, espresso, spice, and dried orange peel on the finish. The tannins get a bit brusque after having spent three decades in the barrel, but overall it’s a well-balanced brandy.