Castarede Armagnac 1996

Castarède Armagnac 1996 is a distinguished vintage brandy produced by Maison Castarède, the oldest registered Armagnac trading house in France (established in 1832). Distilled from a blend of traditional grape varieties (Ugni Blanc, Baco, Folle Blanche, and Colombard) grown in the Bas-Armagnac region, this spirit was aged for over two decades in oak casks before bottling. It displays a brilliant amber hue with coppery highlights. The nose opens with intense, rich notes of dried orchard fruits, prunes, candied peel, toasted oak, leather, and warm baking spices. On the palate, it is smooth, supple, and vinous, delivering harmonious flavors of vanilla, dried figs, tobacco, and cocoa, finishing long with a delicate, chalky elegance and subtle oak tannins.

Food Pairing: Pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate desserts, tarte Tatin, blue cheese, cured ham, crème brûlée, pecans, and fine cigars.