About us

In the heart of the Bas Armagnac vineyard (Southwest France), the origin of Domaine de Papolle goes back to the 17th century with its Bas Armagnac production, which continues today. Additionally, today our white wines also represent an important part of our production. The contrasts, both technical and commercial, between the creations of these two products reveals the spirit of mind Papolle: authentic & innovative.

Domaine de Papolle was established in the 17th century and is spread over 135 hectares, including 55 hectares of vineyards. Surrounded by forest and lakes, Domaine de Papolle is a haven of peace, a unique place where nature runs wildly free.

Besides our production of the ancestral and more famous “Eau-de-vie des Rois” that is Armagnac, our vineyards also produce the fruit for our unique wines. The wines are mostly white and are produced from local grapes such as Colombard, Ugni Blanc, Gros Manseng and Petit Manseng, as well as more traditional varieties like Sauvignon and Chardonnay. Merlot and Syrah are used to make the red and rosé.

These grapes varieties, both independently or blended, offer fresh wines with powerful and complex aromas. The wines are well balanced, festive, and easy to drink. They will make great appetizers or will beautifully accompany seafood, white meats, or for a different perspective, cheeses.

History

In the early 14th century Master Vital Dufour, prior Eauze in Gascony, boasted that Armagnac has “40 virtues or efficiencies” to “maintain health and stay in good shape.” This text is dated in 1310 and describes “Aqua Ardente” which would later become known as Armagnac, the oldest eau-de-vie from France.

Centuries later in the Middle Age Henry the 4th, King of France, fell in love with the Bearn region (near Gascony). It perfectly facilitated his favorite pastime: hunting. He crossed the historic village of the Bas Armagnac, “Labastide d’Armagnac”, where he tasted the local elixir. He brought it back to serve at the Royal table for guests, and it was there that Armagnac gained the name “Eau-de-vie des Rois” (Spirits of the Kings).

Vineyard & Terroir

There are three terroirs that define the area of Armagnac (AOC): the “Haut Armagnac”, the “Tenareze” and “Bas Armagnac”. Each is characterized by very specific soils that impart different styles to the eau-de-vies. The Bas Armagnac is known for its soil composed of tawny sand (sand & silt). These acidic soils help distillers to produce fruity Armagnacs with fantastic aging potential.

Winemaking & Aging

Armagnac, the oldest Eau-de-Vie from France, was adopted by King Henry IV when he visited the region for one of his hunting parties. Since then, Armagnac has gained popularity to become an elegant drink for classy occasions. Papolle strives to preserve ancestral techniques by utilizing wood distillation in the continuous Armagnac still and natural aging in oak barrel.

At The Winery

Our greatest point of pride is to be able to provide our customers with more than a century of vintages. Our cellars are stocked with Armagnacs ranging from the 1900s to today. They are brown and gold colored, full-bodied and bright, a result of the beautiful and undisturbed interactions between the Eau-de-Vie and the wood.

Press & Awards

Marquis de Papolle, Blanche d’Armagnac

Gold - Concurs General Agricole de Paris, 2006, 2007

Gold - Foire National Aux Grandes Eaux-de-Vie Armagnac, 1993

Bronze - Foire National Aux Grandes Eaux-de-Vie Armagnac, 1990

Domaine de Papolle VSOP

Bronze - Foire National Aux Grandes Eaux-de-Vie Armagnac, 2002

Bronze - Salon du Vin et du Fromage Floreffe, Belgium 2002

Bronze - Concurs General Agricole de Paris, 2002, 2001, 1998

Domaine de Papolle Hors d’Age

Featured in Modern Distillery Age

“Amber with a deep, rich aroma of dried fruits and leather plus alcohol. Dense, tight, dark, rich fruits in the taste (black cherries), caramel sweetness and spices. A full body, and a long, rich, spicy finish with alcohol warmth.”

Gold - Concurs General Agricole de Paris, 2016, 2008, 2001

Gold - Prix du President de la Republique, 2000

1st Prize - International Weinmesse Berlin, 2003

2009 Selection - Guide Hachette, 2010

Silver - International Wine and Spirits Competition, London 2000

20 Ans Bas-Armagnac

92 Points and "Critics Gold" at International Wine and Spirits Competition - Critics Challenge (March 2016)

Awarded Silver at San Diego International Wine & Spirits Challenge (2016)

Featured in Modern Distillery Age

“Amber with a big aroma of plums, raisins, baked fruits, grape skins and highly caramelized candy. All the fruits of the aroma are in the taste plus oak and alcohol warmth. A big body and a long finish.”

Gold - Concurs General Agricole de Paris, 2003

​