Pernod Ricard Chinese Distillery Celebrates First Whisky
Global whisky distillery giant, Pernod Ricard, is celebrating its Chinese distillery’s first single malt whisky. The Chaun Distillery is part of the French company’s expansion plan. The distillery is rolling out its first whisky that was processed in the Chinese plant.
The launch coincides with the opening of the company’s Experience Centre where whisky enthusiasts can participate in tours, tasting sessions, and purchases. In November 2021, Pernod Ricard invested $150 million to build a malt whisky distillery in Emeishan in Sichuan province. The Chuan Distillery marks a permanent presence of the global whisky giant.
Inauguration of Pernod Ricard Chinese Distillery
“The inauguration of The Chuan Distillery is the culmination of a pioneering adventure,” said Alexandre Ricard, chairman and chief executive of Pernod Ricard.
“We have blended the natural beauty of the Emeishan landscape in China with the skill and craftsmanship of our distillers to produce a whisky to be proud of. It will shape a new and unique experience for whisky enthusiasts for many years to come.”
Dubbed the Chuan, the new single malt whisky is a unique spirit made from highly selected material. The spirit blends both European and Chinese barley and is matured in ex-Bourbon casks, ex-Sherry, and proprietary Chinese oak casks. The expression has become the pilot of the Chinese distillery.
“We are proud to put China on the world map of whisky by presenting this exceptional malt whisky of The Chuan,” said Jerome Cottin-Bizonne, chief executive of Pernod Ricard China.
“As a leading international spirits group, we are committed to proactively responding to the burgeoning enthusiasm and diversified demands of Chinese consumers. “
French company Pernod Ricard is famous for its anise-flavoured pastis apéritifs, Ricard Pastis and Pernod Anise. It is also the world’s second-largest wine and spirits company. According to the company’s website, its long-term goal is to become the world’s largest drinks company.