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French whiskies: a relatively recent history

As evidenced by Cognac and Armagnac or even Calvados, France is a specialist country when it comes to alcohol and distillation.

Nevertheless, the history of whisky in our beautiful country is relatively recent.Until the early 1980s, France was mainly a whisky-consuming country, particularly of Scotch (Scottish whisky), of which it is still one of the largest markets in the world today. Local production was then non-existent.

While Ireland and Scotland are the birthplaces of this legendary spirit, the starting point for whisky production in France actually dates back only to 1983, the year when the Breton distillery Warenghem created the first French whisky under the brand Whisky Breizh, before more seriously developing its Armorik range from the late 1990s onwards. Armorik thus became the first French whisky to clearly claim a regional identity. The Bretons are therefore the pioneers of whisky in France!

Since then, many regions have followed, such as Alsace (Hepp Distillery), Normandy, and Burgundy (Michel Couvreur). Today, there is great excitement in the world of French whisky, with new brands and distilleries being created every year.

French whiskies are now known and recognized internationally, notably winning numerous competitions. On a national scale, there is also genuine enthusiasm for these quality local products.

French whiskies: identity and freedom

French whiskies differ from Japanese, Scottish or Irish whiskies by offering greater flexibility in legislation and therefore in creativity.

The more recent history of this spirit in France means that the country does not have a real tradition in whisky production. As a result, French distilleries demonstrate remarkable creativity in the choice of grains used (wheat, buckwheat -Eddu-, barley, rye, etc.) as well as in the types of aging (new oak barrels, ex-Port, Sherry, Sauternes, Grand Cru barrels, etc.).

From a taste perspective, it is therefore impossible to sum up French whisky in a single style. Instead, we speak of great diversity and a multitude of influences, giving distilleries free rein, much to the delight of enthusiasts.

The evolution of French whisky: from niche to international prestige

French whisky has experienced explosive growth since the early 2000s. Long overshadowed by the Scottish or Japanese giants, the blue-white-red whisky has made its mark thanks to the boldness of our regional distilleries, as seen in the success of brands like Rozelieures, Bellevoye, Michel Couvreur, or Le Breuil.

Between 2000 and 2010, it was the rise of artisanal production. Many projects and distilleries are starting whisky production, such as Rozelieures in Lorraine, Hepp in Alsace, and Glann Ar Mor in Brittany. French whisky is becoming increasingly credible, but it remains relatively unknown.

Between 2010 and 2020, a real change of scale takes place and a new generation of distilleries emerges with stronger creative commitments (organic, terroir-focused, originality, etc.). A very large number of micro-distilleries are then established in all regions: Vercors, Jura, Charente, Pyrenees, Bordeaux, Provence... Projects such as Bellevoye, Bercloux, and Domaine des Hautes Glaces in the Alps are launched. In 2015, the Union of Independent French Whisky Distillers is created, proof of the sector’s structuring.At the end of this decade, the first international medals are awarded to French whiskies, which begin to be exported.

Currently, the French whisky industry is still experiencing strong growth but is also entering a stage of consolidation and international recognition. Several PGIs were thus created in 2021, such as the PGI Whisky de Bretagne and Whisky d’Alsace, thereby legitimizing the concept of terroir for French whisky.

Finally, although the styles are still very diverse and there are no major regional trends, certain characteristics are beginning to emerge: peated whiskies in Brittany and Lorraine, fruity and floral whiskies in Alsace, round and woody whiskies in Charente (Cognac influence), etc.

What is the difference between French and Scottish whiskies?

French and Scottish whiskies share common foundations, such as the distillation of a fermented grain and aging in wooden casks, but they differ in their origin, production philosophy, history, and diversity of styles.

Scottish whisky benefits from a centuries-old history, with records dating back to the 15th century. It is the result of a deeply rooted and codified tradition, which has made Scotland the cradle of modern whisky. The rules are strict: only certain grains (mainly barley for single malts), specific types of stills (generally pot stills), and a minimum aging of three years in oak casks are allowed.Scotch is recognized worldwide for its quality, classic character, and the richness of its terroirs (Highlands, Islay, Speyside…).

In contrast, French whisky is a young industry, which truly emerged in the 1980s and then developed from the 2000s onwards. Freed from the historical constraints of Scotch, French producers quickly adopted a creative and artisanal approach, with highly diverse styles depending on the region.France, with its winemaking and agricultural traditions, has allowed whisky to take root in a variety of terroirs: you can find whiskies aged in wine casks (Sauternes, Monbazillac, vin jaune), Cognac or Armagnac barrels, and even distilleries growing their own organic barley in the mountains!

From a technical standpoint, Scotch whisky relies on proven expertise, where each region has its own distinct style, but within a strictly defined framework. In France, on the other hand, production is more flexible and experimental. French distilleries can use a wide variety of grains (barley, but also rye, wheat, corn), choose between different types of stills (Scottish, Charentais, column), and freely experiment with casks and fermentation methods.This results in a very wide range of flavors, from fruity and floral single malts to smoky peated whiskies, including woody, wine-finished, or spicy expressions.

Finally, while Scotch whisky is based on a long-standing, international, and highly institutionalized reputation, French whisky is still in a consolidation phase. It appeals through its boldness, its closeness to the terroir, and its artisanal character, and each year it gains in quality, recognition, and exports.

The two worlds are not opposed: they complement each other. Scotland embodies traditional excellence, while France represents innovation and emerging diversity.

The different French whisky distilleries

The French whisky landscape is experiencing a true boom, fueled by a rich network of distilleries throughout France. Each house embodies a unique vision of whisky, influenced by its terroir, raw materials, and aging casks.
Here is a non-exhaustive list of the main French distilleries, with a focus on the major partners in our selection.

• Bellevoye is a premium French whisky brand created by Les Bienheureux, a house founded by Jean Moueix and Alexandre Sirech.Their concept is based on a blend of three French single malts, sourced from different regions (North, Alsace, South-West), then refined and bottled in Charente-Maritime. Bellevoye stands out for its elegant and accessible philosophy, with meticulous finishes in wine casks or prestigious Bordeaux grands crus. The range is easily recognizable thanks to its colorful labels: blue (unpeated), red (wine casks), black (peated), etc. It is not a distillery in its own right, but a house of selection and finishing. The overall style is smooth, modern, and very well calibrated to appeal to a wide audience.

• Hériose is the single malt whisky brand of Maison Boinaud, one of the oldest Cognac houses, founded in 1640 and still family-owned.Located in Angeac-Champagne, the house has been producing whiskies since 2018, with commercialization starting in 2022. These are 100% French spirits, distilled in Charentais copper stills, using French barley and local spring water. Aged in former bourbon or Pineau casks, Hériose offers indulgentpastry-like and fruity profiles, true to the aromatic universe of the region. The brand embodies a modern vision of Charentais whisky, elegant and accessible, with editions such as Le Classique or Le Petit Tourbé.
  

• Le Breuil whiskies are produced at Château du Breuil, a famous Norman house internationally known for its Calvados. The distillery has expanded its expertise to whisky production by relying on its skills in distillation, fermentation, and aging. The blend of Norman traditions and Scottish spirit results in whiskies that are round, fruity, and woody, with a true personality. The estate has managed to modernize its image while respecting its roots. Today, it is one of the rising players on the whisky scene in France.
  

• The Grallet-Dupic House, located in Rozelieures in Lorraine, has been producing one of the first French craft whiskies since 2002. It is a pioneer in the "farm to bottle" approach, growing its barley locally, distilling it on site, and then aging the whiskies in its own cellars. Rozelieures offers a rich and consistent range, from unpeated to peated. Each cuvée highlights the balance between finesse, terroir, and aromatic complexity. Today, it is one of the most recognized distilleries in France, with a true Lorraine signature.
  

• Michel Couvreur, often called "the poet of whisky", was a Belgian wine merchant who settled in Burgundy. Founded in the 1980s, his "house" is not a distillery but a cellar for maturing whiskies distilled in Scotland, then imported young and aged in rare casks (often Sherry) in Burgundy cellars. The philosophy is based on the idea that aging is the soul of whisky. Couvreur whiskies are rich, deep, often oxidative, almost "vinified", with a strong influence from Spanish wines.It is a unique house in the world, blending wine culture and the spirit of whisky.
  

• The Warenghem Distillery (Armorik) is the first French distillery to have produced a single malt as early as 1998, after launching the very first Breton whisky in 1983. The stills used are of the Scottish type, and aging often takes place in Breton oak, sherry, or bourbon casks. The range is wide, from classic to peated, with an emphasis on balance and roundness. Armorik is a historic figure in French whisky, recognized both in France and internationally.
  

• The Distillerie des Menhirs, founded by the Le Lay family in Brittany, is famous for having created the very first buckwheat (sarrasin) whisky: the renowned Eddu. The name actually means "buckwheat" in Breton. This atypical whisky stands out for its very smooth profile, slightly spicy, with a unique sweetness. Located in Plomelin, in Finistère, the distillery controls everything, from the cultivation of buckwheat to bottling. Eddu is a perfect example of a terroir whisky, deeply Breton, without trying to copy Scotland. The distillery also offers more oaky, peated, or cognac cask-finished versions. It is one of the most original houses in France.
  

• The Distillerie Castan, located in Tarn, is a family-run business that began whisky production in the 2010s. It is known for its Vilanova whisky, 100% Occitan, produced from barley grown on the family’s land. Distillation is carried out in a Charentais still, and aging takes place in various casks: new oak, wine, or re-toasted casks. The editions are often limited, bottled at cask strength, with great aromatic richness. Vilanova truly reflects the identity of the South-West: generous, authentic, and sunny. The distillery is discreet but is gaining momentum thanks to the quality of its bottlings.
  

• The Distillerie des Hautes Glaces, located in the Alps (Trièves), is a pioneer of organic and agricultural French whisky. Founded in 2009, it produces whisky from permaculture-grown cereals on the estate, with a strong commitment to sustainable development. Distillation is slow, in a Charentais still, and aging takes place in wine or French oak casks.Each cuvée (Rye, Single Malt, etc.) expresses a unique Alpine terroir, often with mineral, cereal, and spicy notes. The distillery is praised for its rigor, its "wine-like" approach to whisky, and its respect for the natural cycle. It embodies the avant-garde of French whisky.

Types of French whisky available

The richness of French whisky is reflected in the wide variety of styles offered by distilleries in France.

At the top of the list, Single malt stands out as the iconic format for discerning enthusiasts. Made exclusively from malted barley and produced in a single distillery, this type of whisky allows the character of the terroir and the expertise of its creators to be revealed with finesse.

Alongside single malt, French distilleries are also innovating with Blended whiskies, blends of several whiskies (malt and sometimes grain), which offer balanced, accessible profiles and a very interesting quality/price ratio.

The Blended Malt, a blend composed only of malts from different distilleries, is also gaining popularity in France, bringing complexity and structure without compromising authenticity.

The diversity of aging methods is another pillar of French whisky. Producers do not hesitate to use a wide variety of casks: new oak casks, former rum casks, red wine casks, Port or even Sauternes casks.This wealth of raw materials offers an incredible range of aromatic notes, from dried fruits to sweet spices, including woody, honeyed, or smoky nuances. It is particularly in this creative freedom that French whiskies stand out from the more regulated Scottish traditions.

Thanks to this variety of styles (Single Malt, Blends, Blended Malt, Grain Whiskies) and aging options, France now offers a comprehensive and dynamic selection. This abundance of approaches and flavor profiles makes French whisky a key player on the global stage, recognized for its creativity, regional roots, and the undeniable quality of its products.

Whisky and Food Pairing Guide

The pairing of whisky and dishes is still a relatively unknown practice in France, especially compared to wine. However, French whiskies, with their diversity of styles and their roots in the terroir, offer a particularly interesting playground for subtle, rich, and often surprising whisky and food pairings.

French whisky offers a great aromatic variety: you can find fruity and floral single malts (Armorik, Rozelieures Origine), peated whiskies (Kornog, Rozelieures Tourbé), whiskies aged in sweet wine casks (such as those from Bellevoye or Michel Couvreur), as well as rustic, cereal-based whiskies (Distillerie des Hautes Glaces, Eddu made from buckwheat).This diversity therefore makes it possible to create targeted pairings according to the textures, spices, or fat content of a dish.

For example, a non-peated whisky, smooth and fruity (such as Armorik Classic or Hériose Le Classique) will pair very well with a starter based on smoked fish, roast poultry, or even a soft cheese such as Brie or Saint-Marcellin. The roundness and delicacy of the whisky will then complement the finesse of the dish without overpowering it.

Peated whiskies or those aged in Sherry casks, such as Kornog, Rozelieures Fût Unique Tourbé or Michel Couvreur "Candid", will pair divinely well with more robust dishes: a duck breast, a grilled rib of beef, or a strong cheese such as Bleu d’Auvergne or an aged Comté. The smokiness and tannic structure of the whisky create a harmonious echo with the meat or cheese.

Finally, for dessert, whiskies with indulgent spicy, woody or vanilla notes (such as Bellevoye, Eddu Silver or the special cask releases from the Castan distillery) will pair perfectly with a chocolate fondant, a caramelized apple tart, or even a custard flan. Some whiskies aged in Sauternes or Monbazillac casks will bring a liqueur-like touch that will enhance fruity or spicy desserts.

In short, French whisky, thanks to its strong connection with the terroir and regional culinary expertise, naturally lends itself to signature gastronomy. The aim here is not to replace wine, but to explore a new language of flavors, often more intense, warmer, and sometimes bolder.

How to choose a French whisky?

Choosing a French whisky can seem complex given the wide range available. However, by considering certain criteria, you will quickly find the one or those that match your tastes and expectations.

The type of whisky

This is the first criterion to consider. If you are a beginner enthusiast, it may be wise to start with a smooth and fruity single malt, perfect for appreciating all the finesse of the spirit. Many French distilleries such as Bellevoye or Le Breuil offer harmonious expressions with delicate notes, ideal for introducing your palate.

If you prefer more complex and powerful aromas, a peated whisky could be an excellent option. Whiskies such as those from Rozelieures, known for their peated yet balanced profiles, will offer you an intense tasting experience, perfect for connoisseurs seeking character.

Aging

Aging is a crucial stage in the production of whisky, as it is during this time spent in the cask that the spirit acquires most of its aromas, structure, and complexity.

In contact with the wood, the whisky extracts aromatic compounds from the cask (vanillin, tannins, sugars) and interacts with oxygen through the pores of the oak. The type of cask used (Bourbon, Sherry, sweet wine, etc.), its level of charring, its age, as well as the aging climate, all profoundly influence the final profile of the whisky.

Thus, a new oak cask will impart woody, toasted, or spicy notes, while a sherry cask will bring hints of dried fruits, leather, or caramel. In France, distilleries make extensive use of this dimension, often using wine or local brandy casks (Cognac, Armagnac), giving their spirits a unique taste profile.

Over time, a whisky generally becomes smoother, more complex, and well-integrated. The raw notes of grain or alcohol then give way to deeper aromas: ripe fruits, precious woods, sweet spices, even truffle or undergrowth.

That said, a long aging does not guarantee a better whisky! Everything depends on the balance between the wood and the spirit.Some young whiskies, when well crafted, can be surprisingly expressive.

The budget

The price of French whisky can vary greatly depending on the type, age, distillery, or even the aging methods. A quality whisky, such as those offered by Bellevoye or Hériose, can be available at a reasonable price. However, if you are looking for limited editions, a premium gift set, or expressions aged for several years, expect higher prices! In this case, it is always a good idea to compare prices online and read reviews from other customers in order to find the best value for money that suits you.

The consumption occasion

The tasting occasion plays a fundamental role in the choice of a whisky, as it determines both the type of aromatic profile sought, the desired intensity, and the emotional context in which the whisky will be enjoyed. Indeed, one does not taste whisky in the same way as an aperitif with friends, alone by the fireside, or to accompany a refined dish!

A light, fruity, and approachable whisky will, for example, be more suitable for a friendly evening, whereas a peated single malt or one aged in sherry casks will require a quieter moment, more introspective, almost meditative.The context therefore influences taste perception: what seems refined and subtle during a calm tasting may go unnoticed in a noisy or casual atmosphere.

Similarly, certain bottles are chosen for their symbolic value: a vintage whisky for a birthday, a gift box to mark an event, or a single cask for a discerning enthusiast. In these cases, whisky becomes a vector of memory and meaning, far beyond taste alone.

The occasion then guides not only the type of whisky to choose, but also how to serve it, the people with whom it will be shared, and in what state of mind.

The French whisky production process

The French whisky production process follows the main classic stages of whisky making on a global scale, but with a strong influence of the terroir, a great diversity of artisanal practices, and a certain creative freedom that French producers fully claim.

This process always begins with the grain, often malted barley, but it can also be rye, wheat, or buckwheat, depending on the whisky to be created. In the case of barley, it is malted (that is, moistened, germinated, then dried -sometimes with peat- in order to release the sugars necessary for fermentation.

The malt is then brewed in hot water to extract the sugars, and the resulting sweet solution (the wort) is fermented with yeast, producing a slightly alcoholic "wash", similar to an unhopped beer.

This liquid is then distilled, most often in pot stills (Charentais or Scottish type), although some distilleries also use column stills. This distillation process concentrates the alcohol and aromas.

The resulting distillate is then placed in casks for aging, a crucial step in the development of the final flavor. In France, distilleries show great originality in their choice of casks: former wine casks (Sauternes, Monbazillac, vin jaune), Cognac, Armagnac, or sherry casks, which results in very diverse profiles.

The aging process lasts a minimum of three years, as stipulated by European regulations, but many French whiskies rest for much longer. During this phase, the whisky interacts with the wood and the air, gaining complexity, roundness, and aromatic richness.

Finally, comes the blending stage, where several casks are selected and combined to create the desired balance. In some cases, a single cask is selected and bottled directly (Single Cask).Bottling can be done at different alcohol strengths, with or without chill filtration, depending on the producer's choices.

You now know all the key steps in making a whisky!

Why choose our selection of French whiskies?

Access to a varied selection of quality French whiskies

We offer you a carefully selected list of French whiskies from the best distilleries in France. Whether it is elegant single malts, powerful peated whiskies, or creations aged in oak barrels, each product reflects the unique expertise of local artisans.

Best prices guaranteed on the market

We are committed to offering you the best possible price on every whisky, without compromising on quality. Thanks to our direct collaboration with French distilleries, you benefit from fair and competitive rates, whether you choose a single malt, a blend, or a whisky aged in rum casks.

Fast and secure delivery of your order

All our whisky bottles are carefully packed and shipped as quickly as possible. Our logistics partners ensure fast, trackable, and secure delivery, so your product arrives intact and in optimal condition.

Buying guide and expert advice to help you choose wisely

Are you hesitating between a peated whisky or a fruitier malt? Our detailed buying guide, enriched with tasting notes from our experts as well as our Blog articles, will help you choose the French whisky that suits your tastes. Discover our advice to understand the types of casks, the characteristics of the distilleries, and how to best pair your whisky with your meals or tasting moments.

FAQ

What is a French whisky?

A French whisky is a spirit distilled and aged in France, made from grains such as malted barley, wheat, or rye. It can be a single malt, blended malt, or grain whisky. French distilleries stand out for their creativity, particularly in the choice of casks (ex-rum, Sauternes, new oak, etc.) and by using local resources.

What is a Single malt?

A Single malt is a whisky produced in a single distillery, made exclusively from malted barley. In France, several houses such as Rozelieures or Le Breuil offer quality single malts, with fruity, woody, or peaty notes depending on the casks used.

Where are the best French whiskies made?

The main producing regions are Brittany, Charente, Normandy, Alsace, the Alps, and the South-West. Houses such as Bellevoye, which blends whiskies from three regions, or Hériose, which focuses on local production and innovation, are among the most renowned.

How should whisky be stored?

It is recommended to store whisky upright, at room temperature, and away from direct light. The caps should be tightly closed to prevent oxidation of the product.A well-preserved whisky can thus retain all its aromatic notes for several years.

Is French whisky expensive?

Prices vary depending on rarity, age, distillery, or even the type of cask used. There are accessible French whiskies starting from €35-40, but also high-end references. Brands like Michel Couvreur or certain special editions can reach higher prices.

Can whisky be paired with food?

Absolutely! French whisky lends itself very well to food and spirit pairings. A peated whisky will pair with blue cheese or dark chocolate, while a fruity single malt will enhance an apple tart or foie gras.Whiskies aged in rum or sweet wine casks will pair wonderfully with desserts or exotic dishes.