Domaine du Cardinat is a very small producer in the Bas Armagnac region. K&L’s first imports from this domaine came three years ago when they brought in the 1987, 1992, and 1981 vintages. I never tried the 1987, but the 1992 and 1981 were some of the best Armagnac I’ve had, so I immediately purchased the 1988 and 2005 vintages when they became available on the K&L website.
Smell: First whiff gives off some varnish notes. Once that blows off it is both sweet earthy, like a big bunch of grapes,stems and all. There’s also Grade B (dark) maple syrup and a bit of something pretty and floral like gardenia.
Taste: Tart and sweet with grape nerds, underripe green grapes, flat Vanilla Coke, and maple syrup – but it is more of a Grade A/light amber (or whatever they call it now) rather than the darker maple notes from the nose. The texture is a little on the thin side.
Finish: Those grape nerds hang on, it gets tangier, and the oak becomes slightly tannic. The final note is both tart and mouth-drying.
Overall: This is lighter bodied and a simpler flavor profile than I would have guessed based on the color, age, and on the other Cardinat vintages I’ve had (namely the ‘81 and the ‘92) but it is no slouch. While not the monster I was expecting, it is tasty and very drinkable. A very good deal for the price.
Spirit Type: Armagnac
Proof: 94
Vintage: 1988
Age: 31 years
Cask Type: French Oak (New)
Rating: B