1979 Chateau de Laubade Cask Strength Bas Armagnac (700ml)

Château de Laubade was built in 1870 in the heart of Bas Armagnac. Today it's respected as a premier property, with the family's third generation actively involved in the quest of excellence. 105 hectares are planted out to Baco and Ugni Blanc, sustainable agriculture is the standard here (manure is produced by 600 ewes). Chateau de Laubade is also the only Armagnac house coopering its own casks from local Gascon oak. This exceptionally old, sip-worthy expression was bottled in 2019 at natural strength, forty years after distillation. Very limited stocks.

Tasting note: Polished copper. Varnishy opening whiffs take a minute to blow off giving way to a dry nose-feel: flashes of dried fig, peel and bitter chocolate developing with wood shavings, new leather and pepper. Sedate entry expands into a bold, peppery attack; cinnamon and vanilla underscored by a thread of sweet dried fruits. The finish turns pleasantly astringent and almost chewy, sustained by attractive fruit / oak balance. A mature, big-boned style that retains some of the fire of youth. 46.2% Alc./Vol.