Delord Vintage 1999 (bottled 2021), Bas-Armagnac, 40%

Introduction

Delord Vintage 1999 Bas-Armagnac represents over 150 years of distillation expertise from one of Armagnac’s most respected producers, offering a distinctive snapshot of a specific harvest and year of production.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Crafted from selected white grape varieties (primarily Ugni Blanc, Baco, Colombard, and Folle Blanche) grown in the prestigious Bas-Armagnac terroir of Gascony.
• Distillation process: Single-continuous distillation in a traditional Armagnac copper alambic still, preserving the distinctive character of the grape varietals.
• Maturation: Aged for over 20 years (1999-2021) in black oak barrels from the Gascon and Limousin forests, with natural evaporation and gradual oxidation developing complexity.
• Special techniques: Hand-monitored aging process with barrels stored in the family’s traditional chai (cellar) where temperature and humidity conditions are ideal for slow, balanced maturation.

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich aromas of dried apricots, candied orange peel, and caramelized figs, complemented by vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle notes of cinnamon and nutmeg.
• Palate: Full-bodied with a velvety texture, offering flavors of baked pear, prune, dark honey, and toasted nuts. The extended cask aging contributes notes of dark chocolate, tobacco, and warm spices.
• Finish: Long and warming with lingering dried fruits, vanilla, and oak spices, gradually transitioning to subtle notes of leather, coffee, and fine cigar box.

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: Room temperature (16-18°C) to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity.
• Glass recommendation: Tulip-shaped snifter or cognac glass to concentrate the aromas.
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat in contemplative moments; a small drop of water can help open up additional aromatic nuances.
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate desserts, blue cheese, dried fruit and nut platters, or as a dignified after-dinner companion to a fine cigar.

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 40% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Bas-Armagnac, Gascony, France
• Certifications/Awards: Appellation Bas-Armagnac Contrôlée, multiple international spirits competition medals for Delord’s vintage expressions.

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Delord Vintage 1999 Bas-Armagnac represents the pinnacle of French distillation heritage, crafted by a family that has perfected their art since 1875.

With extremely limited production numbers, each bottle captures an unrepeatable moment in time – once this vintage is gone, it cannot be recreated.

Respected spirits authorities consistently recognize Delord as one of Armagnac’s most authentic and quality-focused producers, maintaining traditional methods that larger houses have long abandoned.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Collectors and connoisseurs worldwide seek out Delord’s vintage releases, recognizing them as benchmarks for authentic Armagnac expression.

By securing a bottle of this 1999 vintage, you join a discerning community of enthusiasts who value heritage, craftsmanship, and the patient reward of properly aged spirits.

Spirits critics particularly praise Delord’s perfect balance between fruit complexity, oak influence, and the distinctive rancio character that only appears in the finest and most patiently matured Armagnacs.

From the Delord Family to You

Each bottle of Delord Vintage 1999 represents the culmination of generations of knowledge freely shared between fathers and sons, now extended to appreciative enthusiasts around the world.

The warm, approachable character of this Armagnac mirrors the welcoming spirit of the Delord family, who remain humble artisans despite their prestigious reputation.

By experiencing this exceptional Armagnac, you become part of the continuing story of a family who has dedicated themselves to preserving one of France’s most noble traditions – join them in celebrating this liquid history.