Armagnac

Armagnac, the old name of a district in the south of France, a part of Gascony now mostly included in the department of Gers. The soil is fertile, and its wine and brandy (Eau d'Armagnac) are well known. The inhabitants are noted for their simplicity, strength, and bravery; but are credulous and ignorant. The name Armagnacs was borne by a band of soldiers who did good service in the early history of France against the English and Swiss. The family of the Counts of Armagnac, which ended in 1497, played an important part in French history.