This little-known French eau-de-vie could dethrone gin

Long the jealously guarded secret of the "bouilleurs de cru", blanche d'armagnac officially earned its letters of nobility in 2005. Unlike its elder sibling, traditional armagnac, blanche d'armagnac does not seek the patina of wood, but the brilliance of fruit. From the same terroirs, it is captured as it leaves the still and left to rest in inert containers. This PDO revives the region's image by inviting itself to gourmets' tables and mixologists' counters alike.

Published today at 1:30 PM

Blend or single varietal?

Armagnac blanche is one of the few white eaux-de-vie in the world to boast such terroir-driven complexity. Unlike gin (flavored with berries) or vodka (distilled at very high proof to be neutral), blanche draws all its richness directly from the soil and the grapes. Each grape variety brings its own signature: folle blanche adds a marked floral note, while colombard adds fruity aromas. Baco adds fatness and ugni blanc structure.

Domaine Laballe - Blanche d'Armagnac Vital

An organic eau-de-vie. The nose reveals notes of pear, pineapple, clove and cocoa. The palate is round and elegant, with aromas of amaretto and a spicy finish. A fruity, spicy ensemble, full of energy.

91/100
45 €
@laballe_chateau

Domaine de Saoubis

made from folle blanche grapes and 60% vol. in volume, this white armagnac called Diamant Blanc is generous yet delicate. Certified organic and Demeter, it reveals lovely aromas of lime blossom, acacia and hazelnut, accompanied by a hint of mint and pear. Full-bodied, with a finish of bitter cocoa and white pepper, its intensity is spicy and vibrant.

91/100
62 €
@saoubis_armagna

Domaine Les Remparts

made in Condom, this white Vice & Vertu is delicate on the nose, revealing aromas of citrus, fresh grapes and pear. on tasting, the texture is smooth and elegant. The finish is refreshing and salivating, with hints of licorice and pepper.

90/100
28 €
@les_remparts

Domaine Laguille

The nose of this white armagnac expresses currant and freshly cut grass, with a touch of cereal and fruit stone. on aeration, a note of fresh pear appears. The palate, at 45%, offers a spicy warmth, with green pepper still crunchy. The enveloping, almost sweet texture is reminiscent of plum brandy, finishing on a licorice-like, slightly bitter, lingering finish.

89/100
37 €
@domainelaguille

Domaine Haut-Marin

Domaine Haut-Marin offers here a white armagnac with a complex nose of muscat, fennel seed, harlequin candy and lightly roasted pear. The light, lacy palate alternates between sweetness and salinity. The small amount of barrel ageing adds texture.

88/100
34 €
@domainehautmarin

Domaine Tariquet

made from the folle blanche grape variety, the nose takes us away in a fragrant, refreshing array of mint, basil, Sichuan pepper and green apple. The palate is equally light and fresh, saline and floral.