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Our final full day on the barge started with the same relentless sunshine and heat reaching the mid 30’s C. Because numerous bridges cross the canal the large patio style umbrellas on the upper deck must be stowed meaning no shade is available. We were constantly moving back down to the salon seeking relief.
Kirsten finished her amazing water colour painting.
At one point the canal crossed a bridge that crossed a river!
Our intrepid pilot, Wendy, safely guiding the barge under one of the many bridges.
The incomparable Chef Rich in the galley where temperatures reached 44C (111F) with the oven and stove going. Notwithstanding the heat challenges, he produced incredible meals day after day.
After lunch it was off to Chateau Arton Haut Armagnac for a tour and tasting. Production of Armagnac is limited to a very small area in France and Arton is one of the primary Chateau’s.
Our guide spent a great deal of time describing the property and how the natural terrain was ideal for the growing of different grape varietals with Ugni Blanc being their primary choice.
Our host was very keen to ensure we understood Armagnac was not Cognac and walked us through the differences in distillation methods which generate ~55% alcohol by volume (Armagnac) versus ~72% (Cognac). Last year French Cognac producers created 141 million bottles of which 97% was exported. By comparison, only 3 million bottles of Armagnoc were produced and virtually all stayed in the domestic market.
It certainly is an acquired taste.
Then it was back to the barge and more intense relaxation.
And yet another amazing meal in the salon.
Everyone is starting to slow down a bit given the heat, luxurious food and copious amounts of wine hence a relatively early night.
Tomorrow we will be driven back to Bordeaux and then take the bullet train to Paris before heading home on Saturday.
The Bennetts On Tour 