Armagnac Laterrade - Bas-Armagnac - 2016 - Domaine de Coutchot - Barrel Proof - 45.8%
In the cellar of Mauvezin-d’Armagnac, Vincent Laterrade brings together eaux-de-vie selected for the precision of their origin as much as for their gustatory value. His collection is not limited to very old vintages found through his research: it also allows observing the youth of Bas-Armagnac, when the fruit of the distillation is still clearly perceptible. The Domaine de Coutchot is located in Gaube, in the Landes, within the western part of the appellation. The oceanic influence and the predominantly sandy soils of this area generally favor fine, expressive eaux-de-vie capable of retaining their freshness during aging. The estate is part of a family tradition where distillation and maturation in wood naturally extend the work of the vineyard. Faithful to his philosophy, Laterrade keeps the domain name and harvest year on the label, without erasing their identity behind a house blend. This bottling thus offers a direct look at a still young Bas-Armagnac, closer to the brightness of the fruit than the patina of long decades.
Made exclusively from the 2016 harvest, this Armagnac was distilled at Domaine de Coutchot and then aged for eight years in French oak barrels from the Gascogne forest. This duration allowed the wood to soften the distillate and enrich its expression without covering the liveliness typical of the vintage. Fruity notes remain at the forefront, accompanied by the first hints of vanilla, spices, and dried fruits brought by the barrel. Its strength of 45.8% corresponds to the lot’s degree at bottling, without reduction to bring it to a standardized strength. The barrel proof thus retains a denser texture, a clear tension, and the aromatic relief acquired during aging. Unlike long-matured armagnacs, this selection does not seek pronounced rancio or the dark tones of old wood. It favors an energetic reading of Bas-Armagnac, balanced between youth, indulgence, and precision.
The color shows a deep golden hue, animated by still bright amber reflections. The nose opens on ripe pear, mirabelle plum, and roasted apple, then reveals nuances of light honey, dried flower, and orange peel. Aeration reveals vanilla, fresh almond, white pepper, and a touch of toasted wood. On the palate, the attack is lively and generous, carried by the 45.8% without the alcohol overpowering the fruit. The body maintains a slender character, with flavors of yellow fruits, blond caramel, and mild spices supported by persistent freshness. The finish stretches on citrus zest, light licorice, and pepper, in a clear and warm sensation. This vintage can be enjoyed alone after a few minutes of aeration but will also accompany a tarte tatin, an almond dessert, duck breast with apricots, or a matured sheep cheese.
