Janneau VS Grand Armagnac

Janneau VS Grand Armagnac: A Youthful Delight from Gascony

Janneau, a renowned producer based in Gascony, France, boasts a rich history dating back to 1851. Renowned for their expertise in crafting high-quality Armagnacs, Janneau offers a diverse range of expressions, each showcasing the unique terroir and grape varieties of the region. Their VS Grand Armagnac is a vibrant and youthful spirit, perfect for those seeking an introduction to the world of Armagnac.  

A Lively Exploration of Flavours

Janneau VS Grand Armagnac is a blend of eaux-de-vie (grape spirits) distilled from grapes grown in the Bas-Armagnac and Tenarèze regions. These eaux-de-vie are carefully aged for a minimum of four years in seasoned Gascon oak casks. This ageing process imparts subtle oaky notes while preserving the spirit's youthful character.  

Pour the Janneau VS Grand Armagnac into a snifter glass and allow it to breathe for a few minutes. Observe the beautiful amber colour with golden hues. On the nose, a delightful medley of fresh orchard fruits unfolds, dominated by ripe pears and plums. Hints of citrus zest and a touch of floral sweetness add a touch of complexity. As the spirit opens up, subtle whispers of vanilla, baking spice, and a hint of liquorice emerge, hinting at the oak influence.  

The first sip reveals a delightful balance between youthful fruitiness and subtle oak character. The texture is smooth and supple, with flavours of ripe stone fruits like peaches and apricots complemented by candied orange peel and a touch of white pepper. Delicate notes of vanilla and cocoa from the oak casks add further dimension to the palate. The finish is warm and lingering, leaving a pleasant aftertaste of dried fruit, spice, and a touch of oak tannin.  

Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings

Janneau VS Grand Armagnac is a versatile spirit that can be enjoyed in a variety of ways:

• Neat: This is the most traditional way to savour the Armagnac. Pour a chilled ounce into a snifter glass and appreciate the full spectrum of aromas and flavours. Allow the spirit to breathe for a few minutes to fully develop its character.
• On the Rocks: Adding a large ice cube can slightly dilute the spirit, making it a touch more approachable for those new to Armagnac.
• Cocktails: Janneau VS can be used to create a variety of classic and innovative cocktails. Explore recipes for French classics like the Armagnac Sidecar or the Blanche-Hermine, which combines Armagnac with lemon juice, sugar syrup, and egg white.  

While excellent on its own, Janneau VS Grand Armagnac also pairs beautifully with a variety of foods:  

• Cheese: Creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert create a delightful contrast of textures and flavours with the Armagnac's fruitiness.  
• Desserts: The subtle sweetness and fruity notes of the Armagnac complement desserts like fruit tarts, crème brûlée, or dark chocolate.  
• Charcuterie: Enjoy the Janneau VS alongside a charcuterie board featuring cured meats, pâtés, and terrines. The salty and savoury flavours of the charcuterie will enhance the fruitiness of the Armagnac.  

A Gateway to Armagnac Elegance

Janneau VS Grand Armagnac is a vibrant and approachable introduction to the world of Armagnac. With its lively fruit flavours, subtle oak notes, and smooth texture, this versatile spirit is an excellent choice for enjoying neat, on the rocks, or in cocktails. For those looking to explore the world of Armagnac beyond the VS category, The General Wine Company offers a wide selection of Janneau expressions, including XO and Hors d'Age bottlings that showcase the full potential of this exceptional spirit.