Beverage of the Week (BOW)
Saint-Vivant VS Armagnac
Product Story
Saint-Vivant is a great, old-school brand that has grown into one of the most recognized Armagnac brands in the world. While often in the shadow of its famous French Brandy sibling Cognac, Armagnac is actually is the eldest French Brandy with deep traditions. Armagnac is typically more bold than Cognac being distilled just once and then allowed to mature in cask. The Saint-Vivant VS is aged in French oak for two years before finding a home in its unique "crooked bottle" with the bent neck and wax seal.
Brand Story
In 1559 St. Vivant de la Salle produced his first bottle of Armagnac Brandy. St. Vivant de la Salle, a lord who owned a number of vineyards in Gascony, distilled the wine made in the previous autumn and aged it in barrels made from black oak from the forest surrounding his chateau. Unlike Cognac (in so many ways) Armagnac is typically made with a blend of grapes rather than just Ugni Blanc. In the case of Saint-Vivant both Ugni Blanc and Baco grown in the Bas-Armagnac and Armagnac-Ténarèze sub-regions of Gascony are employed. As is customary the Brandy is distilled just once and then aged in Sessile oak. The results are simply wonderful.
Tasting Note
Brilliant, crystal clear. The nose is very pleasing and complex with sweet, honeyed apples and pears, dried fruits (think fruitcake), allspice, mace, vanilla, and orange peel. The palate echoes the nose delivering a lush but very vibrant fruit-driven core with supporting accents of oak, brown baking spices, black pepper, and dried fruit concentrate that lingers with nutmeg, clove, and brown butter. Medium to full-bodied with ideal balance and length offering the full and semi-rustic flavors that Armagnac lovers seek.
How to Serve
Armagnac is always a spirit that benefits from a bit of aeration. Simply pour it into brandy or spirits glasses and leave it to naturally breathe for at least 15 minutes but it will benefit from a rest of two hours.
Price: $ 28.99
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