Pulled the trigger on Mars after reading some reviews. 38 y/o cask strength Armagnac for 150 seems unbelievable.
didn’t drink quite at XO level-a bit rough, IMO.
Can someone tell me which might be the best, at the price? Total Wine is giving me 10% off, and while I have a lot of experience with cognac (my favorite is Delamain Vespers perhaps even over their Tres Venerables), little with armagnac
Chateau de Laubade
1972 - $200
1975 -$170
1978 - $180
1979 - $170
1984 - $130
1988 - $120
1989 - $115
1994 - $100
1998 - $85
1999- $80
XO - $70
Thanks in advance!
1978 and the XO both come highly recommend by Jason Wilson.
Never tried that producer. I’ve been told those in CA should really try to get a bottle of Mars.
Thanks! The vinous tasting notes for the 78 mention vanilla and oak. Anyone try it? Normally not what I look for in spirits, but willing to give it a try. In The meanwhile the XO seems like a safe try.
Barry, Yes, I’m not sure how to read that note, maybe perfect for Boubon lovers 
My fav house is Dartigalongue and their stuff is not oaky. Their XO is only $45 at K&L and their 1988 which I still have a pristine bottle of was $120. Both well worth the price if you want something more old school.
Had the Darroze 40 grand assemblages which was fantastic. Ordered a bottle immediately.
Also tried the 1910 Labaude which was very interesting; I think the nose was out of this world and it was very complex but def not for everyday.
Comandon is finishing cognac in sherry butts… my first impression is that this is total BS, but who knows.
Btw I just happened upon the serious brandy fb group which seems pretty legit.
Had the Tariquet VS Classique tonight which was phenomenal for the price.
Young, exuberant, vinous, but silky smooth and too easy to drink.
Sorry Josh, I never noticed your question until today. I haven’t had the 1986 but have loved the 1982, the 1979 and the 1923.
I looked but couldn’t find it.
Can you please provide a link?
TTT
I don’t use the website so no, but just search fb for “serious brandy”. You’ll need to be approved to see it.
Astor will have 15% off French spirits in 2 weeks apparently
A glass of 1972 Francois Darroze Domaine de Dupont is a rich spice box on the nose. The palate veers a bit between showing heat and being a strong middleweight with very attractive depth and complexity.
From a bottle that’s been open 15+ years.
I’m in that group as well. Do not let that detract from its legitimacy - it is 100%. Some pretty cool stuff/information rolls through there.
Yeah it’s good!
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Cool Armagnac travel logs
Would like to reinvigorate this thread and solicit advice for a cognac novice.
I have experience with the big houes / tesserons but would love to solicit thoughts on good entry ($50-100) armagnac to get one’s feet wet.
It seems to be the only value game in spirits town!