Customer Reviews

Armagnac

5 star:		(1)
4 star:		(2)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Although this volume is dedicated to the appreciation of armagnac, it is the most informative single volume I've found on French brandy in general. Compared to the glossy photo-filled guidebooks on cognac, it might appear a bit crude with its black-and-white photos and idiosyncratic text. But it is packed with the kind of straightforward, unvarnished information about armagnac and cognac -- production techniques, additives, relative sales volume -- that is altogether missing from those prettier books, yet is absolutely essential for understanding the fundamental differences between these two wonderful brandies. Mr. Neal has an insider's knowledge (and strong opinions), but is generally evenhanded in his treatment of the relative merits of armagnac and cognac. His thumbnail reviews of a voluminous number of specific bottlings and vintages are an indispensible purchasing guide, even if many of them are (sadly) not available beyond the estates where they are distilled and bottled. Overall, an essential addition to the brandy-lover's library.

If you've only heard about, or had a taste of, the excellent alternative to cognac, this book will give you the big picture beautifully. Growers and producers are discussed at some length, there's excellent info on the region and its customs, and there is special attention given to some of the more technical aspects of production and character. The photos are a little dark, but the text is so lively they're almost superfluous. If you're intrigued by the topic or want to know more, this is the resource you need.

This book has (some) values for all Armagnac-interested persons. For the novice will it provide ample information about Armagnac (what is it, where is it, etc) and for the 'half-pro', many tasting notes and details of producers. For a 'professional' Armagnac drinker, however, the details about the individual producers are somewhat lacking; also it suffers from the absolute lack of color pictures (only b/w), but all-in-all recommendable (basically since no other documentation on the subject exists)

This book fills the void for quality information on Armagnac very well. The book offers detailed information on the grapes, techniques, and region for the production of Armagnac generally as well as specifics about a very large percentage if not all of the producers of Armagnac. The only reason I gave this book four out of five stars is the production quality of some of the graphics and text describing them, is not top rate. Also if you are looking for a coffee table book this is probably not for you. This is a serious read and reference for enthusiasts of Armagnac. Highly recommended.