Armagnac is a type of brandy that has long been a staple of French culture and cuisine. It’s a spirit that has been produced in the French region of Gascony for centuries, and its popularity continues to grow around the world today. To celebrate this beloved spirit, December 21st is now National Armagnac Day! In honor of this special occasion, let’s explore the history and production process of this delightful drink. Plus, we’ll share some tips for enjoying it responsibly so you can make the most out of your Armagnac experience. So pour yourself a glass and let’s get started!
What is Armagnac?
Armagnac is a type of brandy that is produced in the Armagnac region of southwestern France. It is made from white grapes that are grown in the region and distilled in copper stills. Armagnac has a strong, distinct flavor that many people enjoy. It is often enjoyed neat or on the rocks.
The History of Armagnac
Armagnac is a brandy from the Gascony region in southwestern France. It is distilled from white wine and typically aged for at least 10 years in oak barrels. The resulting spirit is complex and nuanced, with flavors of vanilla, spice, and dried fruit.
Armagnac has a long and storied history. The first recorded mention of the spirit dates back to 1411, when it was mentioned in a will as being part of the dowry of Jeanne d’Albret, future queen of Navarre. Armagnac remained relatively unknown outside of Gascony until the 16th century, when it began to be exported to other parts of France. It gained popularity in court circles and became known as “the drink of kings.”
During the 17th century, Armagnac was involved in a number of wars, including the Thirty Years’ War and the Franco-Dutch War. This led to a decline in production as many vineyards were destroyed. It wasn’t until the 19th century that Armagnac began to recover, thanks in part to increased demand from Russia and England.
Today, Armagnac is still produced in the same region where it has been made for centuries. A number of small family-run producers continue to create this unique spirit using traditional methods passed down through generations. While it remains relatively unknown outside of France, those who have discovered Armagnac know that it is truly a special spirit worthy of celebration on National
How to Make Armagnac
To make Armagnac, first grape wines are produced in the Armagnac region of southwest France. The grape wines are then distilled in copper stills and aged for a minimum of three years in oak barrels.
The resultant eau-de-vie is then bottled and sold as Armagnac.
There are several different types of Armagnac, depending on the grape variety used, the length of time it is aged and the region where it is produced.
So, if you want to celebrate National Armagnac Day, why not try your hand at making your own? Here’s how:
1. Choose your grapes: There are three main grape varieties used to make Armagnac – Ugni Blanc, Baco Blanc and Folle Blanche. You can use any combination of these, or just one type.
2. Make your wine: ferment the grapes into wine using traditional methods.
3. Distill your wine: distill the wine in a copper still to produce an eau-de-vie.
4. Age your eau-de-vie: age the eau-de-vie in oak barrels for at least three years (the longer the better!).
5. Bottle and enjoy: bottle your Armagnac and enjoy it on National Armagnac Day – or any other day!
How to Serve Armagnac
There are many ways to serve Armagnac. It can be drunk straight, on the rocks, or with a mixer. It can also be used in cocktails or as an after-dinner drink.
If you’re drinking Armagnac straight, it is best to use a brandy snifter. This will help concentrate the aromas and flavors of the spirit. Armagnac can also be served on the rocks, which can help to mellow out its flavor.
For those who want to mix their Armagnac, there are many options. It can be mixed with soda water, fruit juice, or even wine. Cocktails made with Armagnac are also very popular, and there are many recipes available online.
After dinner, Armagnac makes a great digestif. It can help to settle the stomach and aid in digestion. It is also a good way to end a meal on a high note.
Armagnac Recipes
In order to celebrate National Armagnac Day on December 8th, we’ve gathered some of our favorite Armagnac recipes for you to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a classic cocktail or something a little more inventive, we’ve got you covered.
For the classicist, we recommend the Armagnac Sour:
2 oz Armagnac
1 oz fresh lemon juice
0.5 oz simple syrup
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.
If you’re feeling something a little more festive, try the Christmas Cracker:
1 oz Armagnac
0.5 oz dry vermouth
0.5 oz sweet vermouth
0.25 oz cherry brandy
Shake all ingredients with ice and strain into a chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry.
NATIONAL ARMAGNAC DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | December 21 | Wednesday |
| 2023 | December 21 | Thursday |
| 2024 | December 21 | Saturday |
| 2025 | December 21 | Sunday |
| 2026 | December 21 | Monday |
Conclusion
National Armagnac Day is an opportunity to celebrate the unique and flavorful spirit that has been produced in Gascony, France, since the 15th Century. This day allows us to recognize this special liquor and its centuries-old traditions while enjoying some of its newest expressions. Whether you enjoy your armagnac neat or mixed into a cocktail, it’s sure to make for a memorable celebration. So raise a glass on December 21st and enjoy National Armagnac Day!
Important days and events on December 21
| DATE | EVENT |
| DEC 21 | National Coquito Day |
| DEC 21 | National Short Girl Appreciation Day |
| DEC 21 | Winter Solstice |
| DEC 21 | Blue Christmas |
| DEC 21 | December Solstice |
| DEC 21 | Dongzhi |
| DEC 21 | Humbug Day |
| DEC 21 | Look on the Bright Side Day |
| DEC 21 | National Armagnac Day |
| DEC 21 | National Crossword Puzzle Day |
| DEC 21 | National Flashlight Day |
| DEC 21 | National French Fried Shrimp Day |
| DEC 21 | National Homeless Persons’ Remembrance Day |
| DEC 21 | National Lee Day |
| DEC 21 | National Maine Day |
| DEC 21 | São Tomé Day |
| DEC 21 | World Snowboard Day |
| DEC 21 | Yule |
