*Value Pick*
An unexpected occurrence some 10 years ago involved the appearance of the Virgin Marie, who escorted me, for the first time, into the celestial realm of Armagnac. The experience was such that her spirits will always warm both belly and heart. Beyond the nostalgia, this 25 year barrel-strength 1997 Marie Duffau is the best I’ve tasted from this domaine. Add retail pricing ranging from $95-120 per bottle, and you’ve got a no-brainer value pick.
TASTING NOTES #59
1997 Marie Duffau
Aged in Oak Casks for 25 Years
49.6% ABV
A light copper color in the glass, the tasting experience begins with a nose of Maraschino cherry, followed by rum, vanilla crème brûlée, bourbon and butterscotch candy.
Tipping the glass to taste, you’ll find the palate is as sweet as the nose, plus a little thrust. The cherry returns in the form of Twizzlers candy, followed by a counterbalancing note of old cellar and a sip of port wine. While nearly 100 proof, the alcohol is present but never off-putting.
The deliciously protracted finish is a bottomless pit of flavor. The oak finally asserts itself, and like the alcohol, is restrained, while a cornucopia of flavors emerge: almond croissant, pencil lead, Nutella crêpe with banana, poppy seeds, cheese danish, hazelnut, sweet cocoa. I could go on.
The ‘97 Duffau’s affability makes this an ideal bottle for introducing Armagnac to friends, or a great companion for an evening of Armagnac exploration.
Score: 91
While there appears to be only a pair of sources for online purchases as of posting, I would not be surprised to see this on the shelf in your local mom-and-pop liquor store (provided they stock Armagnac from time-to-time). Thanks to the good folks at Heavenly Spirits for importing this treasure.
As of 9/4/23 available at My Bev Store ($110, ships to most states) and Prima Vini ($120). I’ve ordered from both sources without issues.
