The Armagnac made with 100% Folle Blanche is a rare find. This grape, which was the original grape of Armagnac, is difficult to grow and age. However, Domaine d'Esperance has succeeded in creating a 12-year Armagnac from the 2000 vintage. Unlike larger producers, Esperance does not add any coloring or additives to their brandies. They also age their brandies exclusively in local Gascon oak. All vintages are aged in gascon oak, starting in new casks and then moved to older ones. All vintages are still in cask and bottled upon order. The brandies are bottled at cask strength with no additives or filtration. The appearance is a deep amber color with medium-width, slow legs. The nose has a bouquet of honey, along with floral and fruit notes. It also has hints of spices like cinnamon and licorice, as well as nutty notes like almond and hazelnut. On the palate, the floral and fruity notes continue, with the addition of berries, grapes, pears, and honeysuckle. The spice flavors return, including anise, cinnamon, cardamom, mint, and pepper. The finish is long, with the flavors from the palate lingering, followed by the nutty character hinted at on the nose.