Review #: 375
Description: 1982 The Rare Armagnac Collection “Domaine de Pouchegu” K&L Exclusive
Spirit: Armagnac
Background: Continuing with the K&L Domaine de Pouchegu releases, this one is no different beyond age: Cask strength, no additives, aged 2 years longer than what the bottle indicates (just to be safe and fully above board, I’m posting the age stated on the bottle). Another $20 increase for the added age on this one.
Distillery – Domaine de Pouchegu
Bottler – The Rare Armagnac Collection
Brand – The Rare Armagnac Collection
Selection – K&L Wines
ABV – 55.9%
Age – 38 Years
Nose – Much darker and oak driven then the previous two: dark chocolate, smoked pork, matchstick, toasted marshmallow, sourdough starter, blackberries. So rich and complex; I could smell this all day.
Taste – Chocolate, cherries, raisins, grape jelly, vanilla, sweet pastry, caramel
Finish – Grape pops before oak starts to come in, toasted marshmallow, matchstick, roasted tree nuts. Tannins are more contained than the previous sample.
Score: 8
Would I buy a bottle? Yes
Thoughts: This is super delicious. The oak has a fantastic structure without being overbearing or bitter. There’s plenty of fruit influence as well to keep it balanced. An amazing nose, great taste, my biggest criticism is that it’s almost a bit too light and bright. I would have preferred a step up in richness, but that’s me being picky. Having a brandy like this under $200 should have anyone happy.