Armagnac, one of France's most distinguished and historic spirits, hails from the Gascony region in the southwest. Among the various classifications of Armagnac, the XO designation stands out, representing a mature and aged spirit that offers depth and complexity.
To bear the label "XO", which stands for "Extra Old", an Armagnac must have spent at least 10 years maturing in oak barrels. However, many XO Armagnacs often exceed this minimum ageing requirement, with some houses allowing their spirits to rest for several decades. This extended ageing process allows the spirit to develop deep, intricate flavours and aromas, transforming the raw distillate into a spirit of sophistication.
The ageing process for Armagnac is a testament to the interaction between spirit, wood, and time. Over the years, the clear, fiery eau-de-vie undergoes a series of chemical reactions within the oak barrels, taking on colour, texture, and character. The tannins in the wood play a significant role, imparting the Armagnac with a richer hue, typically a deep amber or mahogany, and influencing its taste profile.
On the palate, an XO Armagnac presents layers of complexity. One can expect notes of dried fruits, such as prunes or figs, coupled with hints of toasted nuts, chocolate, and sometimes even a touch of spice. The ageing process also imparts a certain smoothness to the spirit, mellowing out the fiery nature of the younger eau-de-vie and rendering the XO Armagnac velvety in texture.
While the flavours and aromas of XO Armagnac are undoubtedly influenced by the ageing process, the grape varieties used, the distillation method, and the specific terroir of Gascony also play crucial roles. Unlike its more famous cousin, Cognac, Armagnac is typically distilled using a column still, which offers a robust and rustic spirit, retaining more of the original grape character.
XO Armagnac is best enjoyed neat, allowing one to fully appreciate its depth and nuance. A gentle swirl in a tulip-shaped glass can release its bouquet, a prelude to the rich experience that awaits.
XO Armagnac represents a mature and refined expression of Gascony's winemaking heritage. It captures the essence of the region's terroir and the expertise of its producers, offering a spirit that is both timeless and evocative.