Baron de Sigognac VS Bas Armagnac 70 cl 40%

The Gers, deep in Gascony. Soft hills, rows of vines, and a column still that has been standing for almost a hundred years and still fires up every winter. The grapes end up in a bottle without ever leaving the family land.

Expert description

Baron de Sigognac V.S. Bas Armagnac is an Armagnac from the Bas Armagnac area of Gascony, aged in oak casks and bottled at 40%.

V.S. is the youngest grade in the range, which makes it a sensible place to start if you have never tried Armagnac. The spirit comes off a single column, where Cognac is double distilled in pot stills. The result is a more rustic, fruit-led style where the grape is still easy to find. Bas Armagnac is the western part of the region, known for sandy soils and soft, fruity brandies. Baron de Sigognac is a brand from Château de Bordeneuve, and this bottle was filled by ADEX, La Maison de l'Armagnac, in Castelnau d'Auzan.

Tasting notes

Nose

Quince and fresh plums first, then vanilla and a light touch of oak.

Palate

Round and soft. Apples, cinnamon and a few toasted nuts. The alcohol is there, but never harsh.

Finish

Medium length, spicy, ending dry and nutty.

Specifications

Name: Baron de Sigognac V.S. Bas Armagnac
Distillery: Château de Bordeneuve
Bottler: ADEX
Region/Country: Bas Armagnac, Gascony, France
Type: Bas Armagnac
ABV: 40%
Size: 70 CL
Cask type: Oak casks
EAN no.: 3586881131110
Serving suggestion: At room temperature in a small tulip glass, or with an ice cube if you like. Also works in cocktails that normally call for Cognac.

Flavour profile

Fruity · Spicy · Soft · Nutty · Oak

Did you know?

There is a story about a clock at the château that was never wound until a grandchild was born. Whether it is true or not, it says something about how slowly things move in Gascony.

Frequently asked questions about Baron de Sigognac V.S. Bas Armagnac

What does Baron de Sigognac V.S. taste like?

Fruity and soft, with quince, apple and cinnamon. There is vanilla from the oak and a dry, nutty finish. It is rounder and more rustic than a young Cognac.

What does V.S. mean on an Armagnac?

V.S. stands for Very Special and is the youngest grade. It has spent at least two years in cask, which keeps it fresh and fruity rather than deep and complex.

What is the difference between Armagnac and Cognac?

Armagnac is typically distilled once in a column still, while Cognac is distilled twice in pot stills. That gives Armagnac more character and a slightly more rustic fruit profile.

How do I serve Baron de Sigognac V.S.?

At room temperature in a small tulip glass, so the aromas gather. An ice cube is perfectly fine if you want it a little milder.

Can I use it in cocktails?

Yes. The younger style works well in a Sidecar or an Old Fashioned, where you would normally use Cognac or bourbon.

What is Bas Armagnac?

It is the western part of the Armagnac region in Gascony, with sandy soils and light, fruity brandies. Château de Bordeneuve, the home of Baron de Sigognac, sits here too.