Pernod is the first international firm to make whisky in China. Additionally, The Chuan Malt Whisky Distillery Experience Centre is now open to the public.
Pernod Ricard just introduced The Chuan Pure Malt Whisky. This is the first-ever product of The Chuan Distillery, which opened in November 2021 as $150M malt whisky distillery in Emeishan of the Sichuan Province of China. The release celebrates the vision of Pernod Ricard to create a prestige malt whisky made in China. The Chuan will be available starting today throughout China for approximately $124 USD.
The inauguration of The Chuan Distillery is the culmination of a pioneering adventure. 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.
Alexandre Ricard, CEO of Pernod Ricard
Introducing The Chuan Distillery Experience Centre
In addition to introducing The Chuan pure malt whisky to the market, Pernod Ricard also announces today the opening of the The Chuan Malt Whisky Distillery Experience Centre, on the grounds of the Emeishan distillery, which will provide visitors with a holistic tour experience, including an immersive introduction, a detailed demonstration of The Chuan whisky craftsmanship, tasting, gift shopping, and fine dining, featuring Sichuan fusion cuisine and local ingredients that complement the sophistication of the whisky.
We are proud to put China on the world map of whisky by presenting this exceptional malt whisky of The Chuan. As a leading international spirits group, we are committed to proactively responding to the burgeoning enthusiasm and diversified demands of Chinese consumers.
Jerome Cottin-Bizonne, CEO of Pernod Ricard China
Designed by award-winning China-based architectural studio Neri&Hu
The distillery is built with a timeless architecture that strikes a balance with the landscape and artistry embedded in whisky-making. The site also holds a permanent art installation “Fractal Structure – Infinite Shan Shui” by Zhan Wang, one of China’s most celebrated contemporary artists.
In line with Pernod Ricard’s 2030 Sustainability & Responsibility strategy, the site is making every effort to reduce carbon emissions by sourcing 100% renewable electricity, and to optimise and help preserve natural resources at every step. Moreover, with an investment of one billon RMB, Pernod Ricard will continue contributing to the high-quality development of Sichuan by underpinning local agriculture, whisky-making industry and tourism.
The Terroir of Emei Mountain
By its name and nature, The Chuan embodies the rich and layered terroir and local craftsmanship. In the unique terroir of Emei Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the year-round precipitation coupled with summer heat creates the exceptional environment for whisky making that increases the intensity of flavours with more evaporation. The distillery leverages Chinese ingredients in its high-standard whisky making. This includes the use of both European and Chinese barley and the unique mastery of three types of oak from three continents that defines its complexity.
Bourbon casks from America lead the elegant vanilla and fruity aroma, then the pronounced sweet notes from sherry casks of Spain, creating a rich and full-bodied whisky. Finally, the proprietary 单岭 Chinese Single Oak casks imbue The Chuan whisky with a long finish of sandalwood and mandarin peel on the palate. The timber is logged from northeast China’s famed and protected Changbai Mountain in extremely few quantities and crafted into casks.
Images Credit: Pernod Ricard
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