Floc de Gascogne

French fortified wine

Floc de Gascogne is a traditional aperitif from the Gascony region in Southwest France. It is a fortified wine made by blending Armagnac with fresh grape juice. The name "Floc" comes from the Occitan word meaning "bouquet of flowers," reflecting its aromatic profile.

History

The origins of Floc de Gascogne date back to the 16th century, although it was officially recognized as an Appellation d'origine contrôlée (AOC) in 1990. The drink was traditionally made by local farmers who combined the region's abundant grape harvest with Armagnac, a renowned brandy also produced in Gascony.

Production

Floc de Gascogne is produced by blending two-thirds fresh grape juice with one-third Armagnac. The grape juice is typically made from Colombard, Gros Manseng, and Ugni Blanc grapes, among others. The Armagnac used must be at least one year old. The mixture is then aged for several months before bottling.

Gros Manseng grapes used in Floc de Gascogne

The production process is carefully controlled to maintain the balance between the sweetness of the grape juice and the strength of the Armagnac. The resulting beverage has an alcohol content of about 16-18%.

Characteristics

Floc de Gascogne is known for its sweet, fruity flavor with floral and nutty notes. It is typically served chilled as an aperitif, but it can also be used in cocktails or as a dessert wine. The drink is available in both white and rosé varieties, depending on the grapes used.

A bottle of Floc de Gascogne

Serving Suggestions

Floc de Gascogne is best served chilled, between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius. It pairs well with foie gras, melon, and desserts such as fruit tarts. It can also be enjoyed on its own as a refreshing aperitif.

Cultural Significance

Floc de Gascogne is an integral part of the cultural heritage of Gascony. It is celebrated in local festivals and is a symbol of the region's rich culinary traditions. The drink is often associated with conviviality and is enjoyed during family gatherings and celebrations.

Related pages

• Armagnac (brandy)
• Fortified wine
• Gascony
• Aperitif

Armagnac, the base spirit for Floc de Gascogne