Chateau de Ravignan Vintage 1998 Aged for 26 Years Bas-Armagnac

A poised and expressive vintage Bas-Armagnac that balances mature depth with lingering vitality. The 1998 Château de Ravignan shows graceful oak integration, layered fruit, and classic Gascon warmth—an elegant, contemplative spirit that rewards slow sipping.

Origins & Craftsmanship

Produced at Château de Ravignan in the heart of Bas-Armagnac, this single-vintage 1998 expression reflects generations of estate distilling and patient cellar aging. The eaux-de-vie is distilled from traditional Armagnac grapes grown on the château’s sandy, iron-rich soils—most notably Baco, Ugni Blanc, Colombard, and Folle Blanche—then distilled in the classic alambic Armagnacais column still to preserve texture and aromatic nuance.

Following distillation, the spirit matured slowly in Gascon oak casks, where decades of gentle oxidation and wood interaction shaped its profile. The result is a vintage Armagnac that emphasizes balance and harmony, allowing fruit, spice, and oak to unfold in measured layers rather than dominance.

Critics Reviews

Armagnac specialists and vintage-spirit commentators consistently regard Château de Ravignan’s late-1990s releases for their clarity, balance, and classical structure. The 1998 vintage is often noted for its expressive aromatics and supple palate, highlighting Ravignan’s aptitude for producing Armagnacs that age gracefully without sacrificing freshness or varietal character.

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Inviting aromas of baked cherry, vanilla custard, and honeyed orchard fruit, accented by gentle oak spice, toasted almond, and a touch of dried orange peel.

Palate:
Smooth and layered, opening with caramelized fruit and soft honey sweetness. Notes of licorice, cinnamon, and subtle black pepper emerge alongside polished oak and a hint of roasted nut.

Finish:
Long and warming, with lingering spice, mellow caramel, and dried fruit tones that fade slowly into a refined, lightly woody close.

Quick Overview