Armagnac, in the heart of Gascony, is situated south east of Bordeaux city.
Here is produced the oldest wine based eau-de-vie. It is produced by a single distillation from a range of ten grapes such as Baco Blanc, Colombard, Folle Blanche and Ugni in an armagnac alambic (still) and then left to age for many years in oak barrels before being bottled and sold. It is traditionally produced and is the oldest brandy distilled . In the past it was consumed for it's therapeutic benefits !!!!
This beverage provides the basis for Pousse Rapierre and Floc de Gascogne, two local aperitifs.
This Armagnac has more flavour and taste compared with Cognac.
The Armagnac area with it's three regions was one of the first AOC in France (1936).
Discover the Bas Armagnac, where is produce the best products around the little town of Labastide d'Armagnac (130 km from Bordeaux city).
Suggestion :
- Pick up at your hotel or leisure place.
- Drive south to Armagnac area.
- Arriving in domaine d'Ognoas, a remarkable and classy site, which stretches out over 650 hectares with 52 hectares of vineyards around Arthez-d'Armagnac, the estate owns the oldest distillery in Gascony. We know that production and distillation is made in Ognoas since 1804 and owns the oldest still, heat with wood, now classified as an historical French heritage.
- Visit and tasting.
- Then road to Labastide d'Armagnac, a village founded in 1291, nestled in the heart of Bas Armagnac, this little village has kept it's medieval charm and authenticity. Discover the “place Royale” particulary well preserved: half timbered houses and the ebattled church tower.
- Free time for lunch and stroll by the little streets.
- In the afternoon visit and tasting in a little estate.
- Drive back to Bordeaux.
Approx : 8h30