Armagnac Sempé 1971

Armagnac Sempé 1971: From Storms to Sweet Fruits

This vintage Armagnac has been produced from a combination of Ugni Blanc and Baco Blanc grapes and aged for at least 35 years in black Gascon oak. The product of a single vintage, Armagnac Sempé 1971 represents the unique conditions of one year’s soil and climatic conditions. This year was particularly tumultuous, with violent storms in July affecting grape crops all around France - nevertheless, the remaining harvest has produced some stunning vintages, albeit in smaller quantities. A rare and stunning release, this is an Armagnac that you won’t soon forget. 

Armagnac is a grape brandy produced in the Gascony region of southwest France, between the Adour and Garonne rivers by the foothills of the Pyrenees, as it has been since at least the 15th century. The terroir here is a mixture of sand and clay, spread across rolling hills drenched in sunshine during the long summer - resulting in dark, rich and rustic eaux-de-vie with concentrated flavors. The wood used for Armagnac casks is a particular wide-grained variety found in the Gascon forest, which has been toasted to a medium char to develop its sweetness and tannins perfectly. The wide grain allows for accelerated movement of the spirit in and out of the wood, creating depth of flavor and a well-developed aroma. 

The House of Sempé is one of the best-known trading houses in Armagnac, founded in 1934 by Abel Sempé, a Gascon who worked tirelessly in the service of his country and his region. Known as a member of the resistance for the Armagnac battalion, he later served as Senator for the Gers for many years. He spread the Sempé Armagnac brand around the world in the 1950s and some of the stunning vintages he acquired can still be enjoyed today. 

Presentation of the Bottle

Shown in a classic ‘Milady’ bottle, this expression features a stunning label decorated with gold and a simple wooden presentation box emblazoned with the Sempé name. 

How to Serve Armagnac Sempé 1971

Ideal as a digestif, we recommended serving this Armagnac at 16 to 20°С. Pour into a tulip glass and let the liquid rest for at least a minute before taking a sip, allowing the aromas to fully develop.