Swell de Spirits #8 Flashback Charron Bas-Armagnac 1996 48,3%

Another review for this estate here, another IB version. Cask strength 1996 vintage, BA. Let’s go!

Colour: Dark amber, orange lights. Irregular heavy tears.

Nose: Delicate nutty notes at first, then heady citrus. Heavy tannins. Slightly jammy, mainly banana and quince. Elegant floral shades emerging through the oak.

Palate: Strong tannins, confirming nose impressions. Roasted notes, especially ristretto. Sugary fruitiness on raisins and tinned plum. It ends on molasses and licorice sweets.

Last Notes: Orange sweets with air. Warm spices (ras-el-hanout, paprika). Hints of honey. Back on the palate, a bunch of chocolate notes. It ends on star anise and white port tones.

Bold but funky Bas-Armagnac. Usually not my preferred style, but I must admit this one works well.