Laurie Matheson Artcurial - what would be a good Armagnac to buy

We asked Laurie Matheson: What would be a good Armagnac to buy?

9.05.2023

On the occasion of the Fine Wine & Spirits Auction happening at Artcurial on Wednesday, May 10th and Thursday, May 11th we asked Laurie Matheson what would be a good Armagnac to buy.

What would be a good Armagnac to buy?

In this auction, we are offering Armagnac from old vintages ranging from 1900 to 1984. That is the magic of our trade, as old vintages are fantastic to drink the older they get. The power of the alcohol tones with time, the aromas blend to be more complex and rounder. All in all a great experience. The prices are very reasonable on auction for these precious spirits.

Tell us about the Armagnacs to be auctioned

Armagnac is a small appellation of 15.000 ha (about 5 times smaller than the Cognac appellation). Many brands are family owned, relatively confidential, producing according to tradition. Marketing is not as aggressive as for whisky, Cognac, gin, and such spirits. One could compare production in Armagnac to Calvados. Armagnac is complex to understand as it is complex to produce. Discovering Armagnac is a good idea if one wishes to taste refined spirits.

Out of all the bottles available for purchase, which one would make the best gift?

I would recommend Armagnac Domaine Boignières (family-owned in those vintages) or Gelas (trader-producer that selects fabulous spirits from great producers), these are amongst the best.

Which one would you buy to keep in your cellar and which one would you share right away?

I would keep in my cellar Lots 793, 794 Domaine Boignières 1984 Cépages Nobles, to put away for a long time. And Lot 798, Gelas 1976 Château de Martet for sharing.

Which one is the most beautiful bottle?

Lot 789, Armagnac Saint Christeau 1900 Esquerré Bounoure, family-owned, not in production anymore. Pristine conservation comes from the family cellar, the label, cork, and wax are recent. Drinking 1900 is like traveling back in time.

Step into the world of fine spirits with this auction collection, featuring a range of bottles that are sure to delight collectors and connoisseurs alike