On May 17th this year, the UK’s most respected drinks connoisseurs gathered at the Soho Whisky Club in London to attend the 2016 London Armagnac Academy.

The one day academy aimed at professionals, importers, distributors, merchants, bartenders, sommeliers and journalists looking to expand their knowledge of Armagnac, offers candidates the chance to experience over 30 brands  for tasting.  Presented by official Armagnac educators, Edward Bates and Amanda Garnham the day educates candidates on the Armagnac region, soils, grapes, production, distillation and maturation techniques.

Simon is passionate about good wine and with over fifteen years experience as a wine merchant was one of the selected candidates for this year’s Armagnac Academy. Following an intensive day of learning about the production and distillation of the Armagnac region and tasting the different brands, candidates were then tasked with a final exam which earns them an Armagnac accreditation. We are proud to announce that Simon gained top marks which earned him a distinction with a highly respectable 95 /100.

Simon Smith gains Armagnac Award

As a reward for his distinction, the Armagnac Academy has invited Simon to visit the region during distillation time this autumn where he will be able to enhance his knowledge of France’s oldest brandy and the beautiful Gascony region.

The Solent Cellar currently stocks a range of Armagnac’s from producers including;

Loujan, Baron de Sigognac, Dartigalongue, Darroze and Laubade.