Armagnac

A type of brandy that, like Cognac, has an appellation d’origine contrôlée, meaning it cannot be labeled as such unless it comes from a specified area and is produced under certain controls. Armagnac is made only from wine produced in a region in Gascony. There are several production subareas, including Haut-Armagnac, but Bas-Armagnac is the main producer. The criteria specifying the area where the grapes may be grown, the method used in production, and the system for labeling have been in force since 1909; however, the name Armagnac was recorded as early as the 1400s. Armagnac is aged in oak and is given one of the following classifications: XXX, meaning it is aged 3 years; VO, meaning 5 to 10 years; VSOP, up to 15 years; or Hors d’Age, meaning that the Armagnac is at least 25 years old. See Brandy.