Baron de Sigognac VSOP Bas Armagnac 50 cl 40%

Rolling hills, vines and quiet roads in Gers, deep in Gascony. This is where Baron de Sigognac makes its Armagnac, in the village of Castelnau d'Auzan, in the part of the region known as Bas Armagnac.

Expert description

Baron de Sigognac VSOP Bas Armagnac is a Bas Armagnac Brandy aged in oak casks and bottled at 40%.

Armagnac is the oldest brandy in France, older than Cognac. Bas Armagnac covers the western, sandier part of the region, and its brandies tend to come out softer and fruitier than the sharper styles found further east. Sigognac works in Gers, and this bottle is the VSOP: the younger, easier-going expression in the range.

The label reads Appellation Bas Armagnac Contrôlée. The brandy is aged in oak casks and bottled in the estate's chais under the watch of the maître de chai. The oak adds vanilla and a little spice and rounds off the edges, so it drinks easily without being dull.

At 50 cl, the bottle is smaller than usual. A good way into Armagnac if you just want to see what the fuss is about.

Tasting notes

Nose

Dried apricot and raisins first, then vanilla and a touch of toasted oak. Something warm and bready sits underneath, a bit like brioche.

Palate

Soft and round. Ripe fruit, honey and gentle spice from the cask. It is not heavy, but there is enough grip to keep you interested.

Finish

Medium length, with vanilla, dried fruit and a faint hint of pepper.

Specifications

Name: Baron de Sigognac VSOP Bas Armagnac 50 cl
Distillery: Baron de Sigognac
Region/Country: Bas Armagnac, France
Type: Bas Armagnac Brandy
Age: VSOP
ABV: 40%
Size: 50 CL
Cask type: Oak casks
EAN no.: 3586881131127
Serving suggestion: At room temperature in a tulip glass, preferably after a meal

Flavour profile

Soft · Fruity · Vanilla · Oak · Spicy

Did you know?

Armagnac is normally distilled only once, in a continuous column still, while Cognac is distilled twice. It is one of the reasons Armagnac often tastes more rustic and more of grapes.

Frequently asked questions about Baron de Sigognac VSOP Bas Armagnac

What does Baron de Sigognac VSOP taste like?

Soft and fruity, with dried apricot, honey and vanilla. The oak adds a little spice in the finish, but nothing sharp. It works well if you are new to Armagnac.

What does VSOP mean on an Armagnac?

VSOP means the Armagnac has spent at least four years in cask. It is a younger and lighter style than the older Armagnacs, so it is usually fresher and fruitier.

How do you drink Baron de Sigognac VSOP?

At room temperature and without ice. A tulip glass gathers the aromas, though an ordinary whisky glass also works. It can also stand in for Cognac in cocktails.

What is the difference between Armagnac and Cognac?

Armagnac comes from Gascony, Cognac from the area north of Bordeaux. Armagnac is usually distilled once and tastes more of grapes and fruit. Bas Armagnac is the part of the region with sandy soil, where the brandy tends to be softer. Browse more in our Armagnac selection.

Is Baron de Sigognac VSOP a good gift?

Yes, for someone who likes Cognac, whisky or brandy and wants to try something different. The bottle is 50 cl, so it is easy to keep on a shelf, and the style is soft enough for most tastes.