Lot presentation

Bas-Armagnac Domaine de Hourtica (47,5°) Darroze 2005

The wine

Armagnac is France’s oldest spirit, distilled since the 14th century in the south-west, long before Cognac. Domaine de Hourtica, located in the heart of Bas-Armagnac, lies on the region’s famous ‘sables fauves’, sandy soils mixed with clay and rich in iron oxides. These well-draining soils encourage slow ripening and a fine aromatic concentration. The grapes are harvested at full maturity for their rich sugar content and their aromatic intensity. Fermentation is carried out naturally, without added yeasts, producing a lively, low-alcohol white wine ideally suited to distillation. Distillation takes place in a traditional continuous Armagnac still, operated at a low temperature to preserve maximum aromatic complexity. The spirit is then aged in Gascon oak casks, resting in cool, humid cellars. The resulting spirit shows a deep amber hue. The nose is vivid and precise, opening with notes of candied plum, bitter orange, supple leather, blond tobacco, vanilla, and hints of sweet spice. On the palate, the first sip is generous and warming, revealing a silky texture and well-integrated tannins.

About the Producer Darroze

Who hasn't heard of the chef Jean Darroze? An emblematic figure of Landes gastronomy, this south-western chef has passed on his passion for cooking, fine wine, and local spirits to his son Francis Darroze. The latter quickly developed a sophisticated palate and, from the 1950s, began searching for lesser well-known Armagnacs. This project went so well that, in the 1970s, he had a cellar dedicated to ageing built. Next in line was his son, Marc, who continued this tradition of seeking liquid gold – made form Ugni Blanc – which we are delighted to offer on iDealwine.