Hontambère - RAC Spirits - Armagnac Ténarèze - 1977 - Ugni Blanc - #D10 - 49.8%
The 1977 Armagnac Ténarèze from Hontambère, selected by RAC Spirits and offered by Clos des Spiritueux, embodies the rare elegance of an authentic exceptional vintage. Made exclusively from the Ugni Blanc grape variety, this armagnac reveals a superb amber color supported by coppery reflections, a sign of long aging in oak barrels. From the very first nose, it captivates with its aromatic power, a true invitation to discovery: candied plums, orange peels, dried apricots, fleshy dates, enhanced by notes of beeswax, dark honey, and spiced caramel. Then come refined aromas of blond tobacco, sandalwood, infused black tea, and a discreet touch of cocoa, composing a noble rancio, perfectly balanced and illustrating the richness of the Gascon terroir. The Ténarèze signature stands out with an earthy and spicy depth, blending undergrowth, cigar leaves, nutmeg, and fine woody touches. From the olfaction, the meditative soul of the great armagnac asserts itself, promising a unique sensory experience.
On the palate, the unique batch #D10 expresses the full power of its 49.8% vol. with remarkable integration. The attack, both direct and voluptuous, reveals rich flavors of dried fruits, prunes, Corinthian raisins, and candied citrus, harmoniously enveloped by nuances of vanilla, mild spices, polished wood, and precious oak. The mid-palate then gains intensity and complexity, with touches of subtly roasted coffee, brown caramel, fresh walnuts, nutmeg, and mild pepper, supporting a broad and elegant texture, never heavy or tired despite the time. This 1977 Hontambère thus shines with its preserved freshness, impressive length, and warm depth, marked in the finish by the nobility of wood, roasted fruits, blond tobacco, a hint of licorice, and a persistent finish typical of very fine artisanal armagnacs.
Bottled by RAC Spirits, this 1977 Hontambère Armagnac is aimed both at discerning collectors and fine spirits enthusiasts seeking authenticity. A true treasure, it is ideally enjoyed alone, in a suitable tasting glass, after a few minutes of aeration to release all its aromatic layers: candied fruits, delicate spices, balsamic notes, and noble woodiness. Sublime paired with characterful dark chocolate, a dried fruit pastry, a refined cigar, or simply during a grand tasting moment, it invites contemplation. Each sip celebrates the art of aging, the patience of the cellar master, and the depth of a unique terroir conveyed by the barrel numbering and precise proof, guaranteeing a unique cuvée far from standardized productions. This rare 1977 vintage thus asserts itself as a collectible armagnac, vibrant, precious, and authentic, forever preserving in its bottle the memory of the Gascon vineyard and the history of Clos des Spiritueux.
Grape variety: Ugni Blanc
