Armagnac Ups the Ante in the UK

The world famous store of Harrods, London, was host to the Bureau National de l’Interprofession de l’Armagnac (BNIA) on Wednesday 25 May, as the region aims to extend its popularity in Britain.

Armagnac Haut Baron

Some of the luxury stores wine and spirit experts were present to try various different armagnacs – something none of them had ever tasted before.  They tried the following;

• VSOP Jeanneau
• XO
• Baron de Sigognac 20 years
• Domaine de Joy 1986
• Château de Busca 1974
• Francis Darroze 1965

Amanda Garnham, ambassador for the BNIA, gave a presentation and explanation of the Gascon regions famed brandy and after tasting, the drink got the thumbs up from all concerned.

After Harrods, she moved across to the Mandarin Oriental Hotel where the great sommelier, Joao Peres and a dozen employees also tasted the delights of the spirit.

The tasting sessions are carrying on over the next few days, and definitely aiming towards the younger crowd to tempt them into trying armagnac.  The BNIA hope that the three day tour – nicknamed ‘Operation Seduction’ will help raise the profile of armagnac in the United Kingdom.

Sources: http://www.sudouest.fr