Lauvia Vintage 1979 (bottled 2019), 40 years old, 43%

Introduction

Lauvia Vintage 1979 represents the pinnacle of Armagnac craftsmanship, capturing four decades of patient maturation and the distinct character of a remarkable harvest year in Gascony.

Production Method

• Raw materials: Selected white grapes (primarily Ugni Blanc, Folle Blanche, and Colombard) harvested exclusively from the 1979 vintage in the Armagnac region of France
• Distillation process: Traditional continuous single-distillation in a copper Armagnac alembic still, preserving the spirit’s robust character and aromatic complexity
• Maturation: Aged for a full 40 years in French oak barrels from the forests of Gascony and Limousin, allowing for gradual oxidation and concentration of flavors
• Special techniques: Minimal intervention throughout the aging process, with careful monitoring by the cellar master to determine optimal bottling time in 2019

Tasting Notes

• Nose: Rich aromas of dried apricot, candied orange peel, toasted oak, and warm vanilla, complemented by subtle notes of leather, cigar box, and ginger
• Palate: Luxuriously smooth entry leading to layers of honeyed walnuts, dark chocolate, dried figs, and baking spices, balanced with elegant oak tannins and hints of tobacco
• Finish: Exceptionally long and warming, with lingering notes of caramelized fruits, fine old oak, aromatic spices, and a gentle rancio character typical of well-aged Armagnac

Recommended Serving

• Serving temperature: 16-18°C (60-64°F) to fully appreciate its aromatic complexity
• Glass recommendation: Traditional tulip-shaped Armagnac glass or small snifter to concentrate the aromas
• Serving ideas: Best enjoyed neat in contemplative sips, allowing time for the spirit to evolve in the glass
• Food pairings: Dark chocolate with high cocoa content, blue cheese, dried fruits, or enjoyed alone as a digestif after a fine meal

Product Specifications

• Alcohol content: 43% ABV
• Bottle size: 700ml
• Country/Region of origin: Armagnac, Gascony, France
• Certifications/Awards: Protected Appellation of Origin (AOC) Armagnac designation, guaranteeing authenticity and adherence to traditional production methods

Summary

A Unique Tasting Experience

Lauvia Vintage 1979 offers a rare glimpse into Armagnac’s extraordinary aging potential, showcasing a depth and complexity that can only be achieved through decades of careful maturation.

With extremely limited quantities available from this specific vintage year, each bottle represents an increasingly scarce opportunity to experience this particular expression of time and terroir.

Expert distillers and cellar masters at Lauvia have maintained the highest standards throughout the 40-year journey from distillation to bottling, ensuring an impeccable quality that meets the expectations of the most discerning spirits connoisseurs.

Recognition from Connoisseurs

Vintage Armagnacs of this caliber are highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts worldwide who recognize their exceptional quality and historical significance.

Those who appreciate fine aged spirits consistently acknowledge that a 40-year-old Armagnac represents one of the most rewarding investments in the world of premium spirits, offering unparalleled complexity and character.

The 1979 vintage has been particularly celebrated among Armagnac aficionados for its balanced profile and remarkable aging potential, making this Lauvia expression especially noteworthy within the category.

From Gascony’s Vineyards to You

Each bottle of Lauvia Vintage 1979 carries with it the generous spirit of Gascony’s winemaking tradition and the patient dedication of those who have safeguarded it through four decades of maturation.

The authentic character of this Armagnac appeals to those who appreciate genuine craftsmanship and the honest expression of a spirit deeply connected to its land and people.

By choosing this exceptional Armagnac, you join a centuries-old tradition of connoisseurship and become part of the continuing legacy of one of France’s most distinguished spirits – experience this remarkable 40-year journey for yourself.