French Whisky Distilleries: The Tour de France of Malt Artisans

French Whisky Distilleries: The Tour de France of Malt Artisans

France is currently one of the most dynamic countries in terms of artisanal whisky production. From Brittany to Alsace, via Charente, Tarn, and Lorraine,French whisky distilleries are multiplying and reinventing the rules. Here's an overview of the must-visit whisky distilleries to know in 2025.

Why are French distilleries so popular?

  • Richness of the land : mountains, forests, coastline, vineyards...

  • Access to various barrels : cognac, sauternes, pineau, vin jaune, etc.

  • Distillation tradition : heritage of cognac, armagnac and liqueurs.

  • Quality of raw materials : local barley, pure water, natural yeasts.

Map of the major French whisky production regions

🌿 Brittany

  • Warenghem Distillery (Armorik) : pioneer since 1987, free since 1987, local pride.

  • Naguelann : whisky aged in cider barrels, strong character.

  • Distillerie des Menhirs (Eddu) : buckwheat-based whisky, unique in the world.

⛰þ Lorraine

  • Rozelieures : essential reference, volcanic terroir, peaty varieties.

🍾 Charente and Southwest

  • Moon Harbour (Bordeaux) : maturation in Sauternes barrels, urban innovation.

  • Vilanova (Tarn) : intense cask strength, with a strong style.

⛪ Alsace

  • Hepp : historic distillery, fruity whisky, white wine barrels.

  • Uberach : organic, non-chill-filtered whisky, an expression of the terroir.

🌾 Other regions to follow

  • La Piautre (Anjou): soft peaty and organic approach.

  • Ergaster (Hauts-de-France): triple distillation and organic label.

  • Domaine des Hautes Glaces (Alps): agro-ecology and natural fermentation.

How to visit these whisky distilleries in France?

  • By appointment directly via their websites.

  • Atspirits fairs (France Quintessence, Whisky Live Paris, etc.)

  • By contactingpartner wine merchants to organize private tastings.

Tips for Choosing a Good French Whiskey Distillery

  • Favor producers who are transparent about their process.

  • Read the technical sheets: origin of the barley, type of barrels, bottling.

  • Taste several expressions (single malt, cask strength, special finishes).

  • Observe the evolution of young distilleries: some will become benchmarks.

And at De Michellot?

Our commitment: to work hand in hand with exceptional French distilleries to create tailor-made vintages that respect the terroir, time and know-how.

A De Michellot vintage of French whisky is currently in preparation. Subscribe to our newsletter to be notified of its release.

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From Michellot , serving French distillers and discerning spirits lovers.