Classic
Armorik
France⁠
46%⁠
Mash bill: 100% Organic French malted barley⁠
Barrels used: Ex-bourbon barrels⁠⁠

France’s whisky industry, which is largely made up of craft distilleries, emerged in the 80’s, and has taken off only in the last decade. There are now more and more French whiskies reaching Canada and that amount is only increasing. Interestingly enough, French drinkers imbibe more whisky annually than champagne or cognac! In 2019, the total amount of French whisky produced was about 530,000 gallons up from a mere 49,000 gallons in 2010. The rules around French whisky production are similar to ours here in Canada. They are allowed to use malted barley, wheat, corn, rye, spelt, triticale and oats, to then distill on a column, pot, or hybrid still, using oak barrels to age a minimum of 3 years, and finally bottling it within the country. Both the government and distillers take this very seriously. There are also heavy influences from one of France’s other longstanding exports: Cognac. We are seeing Cognac yeast being used in the mash and also the barrels for aging. ⁠

⁠France’s oldest modern whisky distillery is Warenghem, in central Brittany and has been in operation for over a century. 1998 saw our dram of the day released, which is now one of France’s best selling whiskies. Just as with their wine, there are many regions of whisky production in France. In Brittany, Warengham connected with the region's sole cooper to make casks of Breton oak, and are also aging some of its whisky in casks that formerly held chouchen, a local mead. What a joy to learn about distilleries around the world trying such localized experiments! ⁠

⁠Tasting notes: Some spicy cereal notes on the nose. Fruity on the palate, everything from mango to peaches, then settling into vanilla beans. Overall a delicious dram that leaves me wanting to explore French whiskey all the more! ⁠

What do you think?