Domaine de Ravignan Floc de Gascogne

Castles have graced the property of what is now the Château de Ravignan in the Bas-Armagnac area of Perquie, Landes, since the 12th century. The name Ravignan itself comes from the deep ravines surrounding the property that once served as a natural defense. Today the estate is managed by Jean-Henry d’Orglandes, his charismatic son, Josselin, Josselin’s wife, Christine, and her brother, Baron Louis de Ravignan. They grow Ugni Blanc, Baco, Colombard, and Folle Blanche grapes in iron-rich, sandy soil, which are distilled together by the traveling still that arrives at the property each November. One-third brandy distilled from Colombard and Ugni Blanc, aged two years, is added to two-thirds fresh grape must (unclarified juice) also composed of Colombard and Ugni Blanc. The blend is rested in a neutral tank for up to one year before bottling. Yeasty aromas combine with grape must and ripe melon, continuing to a palate of delicate sweetness and pleasant acidity where fresh oregano parries a slightly oxidative note. A hint of gooseberry arrives late on the finish.