Armagnac Marcillac Vintage Collection 1975

Armagnac Marcillac Vintage Collection 1975

The vintage of an Armagnac corresponds exclusively to the year of harvest and the eau-de-vie is traditionally distilled some time later. On leaving the alembic still, the eau-de-vie is transparent, with an alcohol percentage between 52% and 60%. At this moment, the Armagnac is highly aromatic, with fruity and floral notes; the subsequent maturation in oak casks provides complexity and increasing softness. Harvested in 1975, the grapes used for the Armagnac Marcillac 1975 were pressed and left to ferment naturally. The wines were then distilled the following winter before being put into Gascon oak barrels. This particular release has spent well over 40 years maturing, with only 500 bottles produced at an ABV of 42%. 

Located in the Lot-et-Garonne region near the city of Agen, the Marcillac Armagnac estate dates back to the 12th Century when it was founded by Prémonté monks. The monastery was acquired in 1730 by a wine merchant from Bordeaux who restored it and converted it into a castle, which was fashionable at the time, and focused on developing the vineyard and wines. The current family acquired the estate in the year 1900 and started distilling wine to make Armagnac following the exact same vinification, distillation and aging processes that the monks followed centuries before. 

The sandy, gravel-rich soil of Lot-et-Garonne is similar to that of Bas Armagnac, producing Ugni Blanc grapes that result in powerful Armagnacs which are superior for aging. The old chapel at the castle, made with thick stone walls, provides the perfect location to age eaux-de-vie for extended time periods. Combining the wonders of a superb region with the perfect conditions for aging, you simply can’t fail to get a great result. Today, the production at Marcillac is run by Robert, fourth-generation winemaker on the estate. Although he has brought some innovation and modernity to the company, he still strictly makes his Armagnac using traditional methods. 

Presentation of the Bottle

Shown in the ‘basquaise’ bottle style characteristic of this producer, the Marcillac 1975 has been hand-sealed with rose gold wax. The rose gold color is also used for the lettering printed on the bottle, creating a subtle contrast against the color of the liquid contained within. Each bottle has been individually numbered by hand. 

How to Enjoy Armagnac Marcillac 1975

This well-aged Armagnac is the perfect digestif, best enjoyed neat in a tulip glass. Try pairing it with chocolate-based desserts, an espresso, or even with a fine cigar.