Heavenly Spirits Press
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![A woman stands next to a man and his two adult sons, chatting inside a dimly lit cellar lined with stacked oak barrels at Armagnac Delord. They appear engaged in conversation, surrounded by rows of aging barrels.]()
Behind the Scenes at Heavenly Spirits
Behind the Scenes with Heavenly Spirits offers a rare, intimate look into the people, places, and philosophy behind one of America’s most dedicated importers of authentic craft spirits, produced in France. In just two minutes, this short film captures what cannot be conveyed on a label or in a tasting note: the human relationships, time-honored traditions, and quiet passion that define true artisanal distilled spirits, and the people who deliver them to you.
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![The Perfect Storm" graphic featuring a man and woman in front of a dramatic stormy sky. Text reads "Why the Spirited Drinks Industry Needs a Reset" with distillery equipment and the Eiffel Tower.]()
A Perfect Storm: Why the Spirited Drinks Industry Needs a Reset
The global alcohol industry is facing a convergence of pressures that has created what many insiders describe as a “perfect storm.” Once fueled by strong consumer demand, favorable economic conditions, and cultural enthusiasm, the market is now encountering a series of disruptive headwinds that threaten its long-term stability. From shifting drinking habits to unprecedented political and economic realities, the world of wine and spirits is being forced to confront challenges that can no longer be ignored.
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![A flute with a lemon twist sits between Yu Gin and Noces Royales bottles and a lemon. A colorful painting is in the background.]()
French Apéritifs for any Occasion
From New Year celebrations to cosy evenings with friends and family, the chink of a cocktail glass and a cheerful santé! can lift any occasion. Here is a selection of recipes to brighten the darker months…
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![A smiling woman wearing glasses stands in a Cognac or Armagnac aging cellar filled with stacked oak barrels, holding a glass of spirit and a notebook with a pen.]()
Vive the Spirits of France
How Heavenly Spirits became the leading importer of Armagnac and other French spirits categories.
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![Cover of a magazine supplement titled "WOMEN IN BEVERAGE 2025" from Beverage Dynamics, StateWays, and Cheers, featuring a grid of portrait photos of over a dozen diverse women on a teal and yellow background.]()
Women in Beverage 2025 Honorees
Christine Cooney, CEO Heavenly Spirits LLC
“Did you have a mentor in the industry? Have you been a mentor to others?
I could say that my grandfather was my very first mentor. He is the one who taught me all about wine and spirits including Armagnac at a very young age. He also taught me about business as I witnessed him running his wine merchant company. “
Click to read the full interview with Christine!
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![Photo montage featuring five image of different cocktails presented in vertical strips, including a whisky sour, espresso martini, kir royale, blanche armagnac margarita, and a french mojito.]()
End of Summer Cocktails
At Heavenly Spirits, we believe every great spirit deserves to shine in the glass, not just on the shelf. That’s why we’re excited to launch a new cocktail series, where we’ll be sharing inspired recipes that showcase the craftsmanship, flavor, and versatility of our portfolio. Whether you’re a home bartender looking to shake things up, or a connoisseur curious to explore fresh ways to enjoy your favorite spirits, these cocktails are designed to bring a little creativity—and a lot of enjoyment—into every pour. Raise a glass, and let’s get mixing.
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![A woman stands next to a man and his two adult sons, chatting inside a dimly lit cellar lined with stacked oak barrels at Armagnac Delord. They appear engaged in conversation, surrounded by rows of aging barrels.]()
How Heavenly Spirits Became the Leading Importer of Armagnac and Other Fine French Spirits
Heavenly Spirits LLC, officially incorporated in 2008 and based in Massachusetts, had its roots planted long before its formal founding. The spark that eventually led to the creation of this acclaimed importer of fine French spirits can be traced back to the childhood of Christine Foubert Cooney.
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![Pale stone building with wooden shutters and darker stone lintels with a double honey-colored arched wooden door with one door opening into darkness.]()
French Whisky: A Oui Dram Worth a Closer Look
The ABCs of French Whisky
French whisky is a growing and exciting category of spirits that has garnered increasing attention from whisky connoisseurs worldwide. While France is most famous for its wines and brandies (especially Cognac), it has been slowly carving out its own niche in the whisky world.
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![A small group of people stands talking inside a distillery. The room features copper stills with a brick oven, tiled floors, and large wooden vats are visible against the aged stone wall, highlighting a traditional Cognac-making setting.]()
A Travelogue Through Cognac with Daniel and Christine Cooney of Heavenly Spirits
We were joined on our exploration of some of the leading craft Cognac producers by a special guest, Macaulay Minton, founder of Dark Arts Whiskey House in Lexington, Kentucky. His presence allowed us to share deeper insight to this historic spirit, by contrasting it with the perspective of a modern American craft whisky producer. What ensued was a one-of-a-kind cultural and professional exchange.
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![Group of people standing in a trade show booth]()
Exploring the Essence and Craftsmanship of French Spirits with Christine Cooney of Heavenly Spirits Imports
Christine Cooney, Co-Owner of Heavenly Spirits Imports, has spent years cultivating a portfolio of exceptional French spirits, including Cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados. Her dedication to quality and authenticity has made Heavenly Spirits a trusted name in the industry.
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![Two pink cocktails in coupe glasses with lemons, grapefruit, and bottles in the background]()
Christine Cooney of Heavenly Spirits Invites You on a Parisian Spring Cocktail Fling
As warm Spring weather quickly approaches, we asked Christine Cooney, co-founder of Heavenly Spirits Imports about the topic of French inspired Spring cocktails and here is what she had to say.
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![Black and white photo of a woman in glasses sitting at a bar wearing a medal attached to her blazer]()
French-American Spirits Importer Gets Knighted
It was a heavenly night for Christine Cooney. On October 23, the cofounder and CEO of Heavenly Spirits Imports, which specializes in showcasing and selling French spirits in the United States, was made a knight of the Ordre du Mérite Agricole at a ceremony in Boston.
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![Highball glasses with citrus twists on a silver tray]()
The French Art of Aperitifs
L’apéritif. Or, l’apéro, for short, as in, On prend l’apéro, or let’s get/have a drink.
But while the phrase and the timing after work suggests the American happy hour, the French aperitif is so very different and so much more.
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![Group of eight people looking upwards, smiling and waving at an exhibition booth for Heavenly Spirits, with a bar setup and bottles of alcohol displayed behind them.]()
Authentic Craft Spirits from France with Love
Celebrating 15 Years of Heavenly Spirits
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![Dan and Christine Cooney posing in front of red BCB letters]()
Celebrating Bastille Day with Heavenly Spirits
To prepare for this National French holiday, we caught up with Dan and Christine Cooney, owners of Massachusetts-based Heavenly Spirits, which specializes in imported French Spirits, to learn more about this widely celebrated holiday.
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![Abstract image of person standing on US looking at paintings of brandy process]()
Boutique Cognac Producers Are Betting on Transparency and Innovation to Shake Up the Status Quo
There’s no dichotomy in spirits like Cognac. With a history dating back hundreds of years, the famed French brandy is led by gigantic legacy brands owned by multinational conglomerates.
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![Brown spirits being poured from a bottle into a rocks glass]()
Betting on a Brandy
Unexpected aging regimens and modern cocktails breathe new life into the spirits category
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![The Cooney family (father, two sons, and mother) in front of giant red letters BCB]()
An Elevated Journey for Heavenly Spirits
From humble beginnings to French knighthood
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![Man in baseball cap and woman stand in front of large wooden calvados barrel]()
SB meets… Christine and Daniel Cooney, Heavenly Spirits
Christine and Daniel Cooney, the co-owners of the US importer of artisanal French spirits, talk about how they joined the sector, and the trends they’ve noticed recently.
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![Christine Cooney receiving a knighthood from the Consul General, Mr. Mustafa Soykurt, at Heavenly Spirit's 15th Anniversary tasting event in Boston at the French Library.]()
Ceremony to award the Ordre National du Mérite Agricole to Christine Cooney
On Monday, October 13, 2023, the Consul General, Mr. Mustafa Soykurt, presented Mrs. Christine Cooney, co-founder and owner of Heavenly Spirits, with the insignia of Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite Agricole.
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![Christine Cooney, in a dark blue dress and velvet jacket, with a green and gold medal pinned to her chest, makes remarks after receiving a French knighthood .]()
Ceremony to award the Ordre National du Mérite Agricole to Christine Cooney
On Monday, October 13, 2023, the Consul General, Mr. Mustafa Soykurt, presented Mrs. Christine Cooney, co-founder and owner of Heavenly Spirits, with the insignia of Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite Agricole.
Christine Cooney, co-founder and co-owner of Heavenly Spirits, has been helping to promote and enhance French spirits in the United States for over 30 years. As Heavenly Spirits celebrates its 15th anniversary, the company has undeniably become one of, if not the largest, importer of Armagnac in the country.
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![Armagnac Musketeer in cape and blue sash presents new inductees Christine and Dan Cooney with blue sashes, medals, and certificates]()
Christine, American importer and musketeer!
The first page of Christine Cooney's history with Armagnac was written more than twenty-five years ago, when this Charentaise opened the door of several Gers houses, those of Dartigalongue in Nogaro and Delord in Lannepax.
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![The Cooney family (father, two sons, and mother) in front of giant red letters BCB]()
Celebrating 15 years of Heavenly Spirits, From France with Love
From the very beginning, the Cooney’s mission was to represent exceptional craft spirits produced in France.
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![Lineup of French Whisky bottles from Armorik, France's oldest single malt whisky, in front of the Breton flag]()
Interview with Heavenly Spirits
The ages-old adage that you should never go into business with your spouse couldn’t be further from the truth for Daniel and Christine Cooney, the co-owners of Heavenly Spirits – a French Spirits import and wholesaler in West Wareham, Massachusetts.
Despite living on different hemispheres for most their lives, Daniel (an American with Irish and Scottish ancestry) and Christine (who is French) met during a trip to Iceland in the 1980s. By 1989, the two had married and settled in San Francisco. In 2008, they founded Heavily Spirits, a name that refers to “the angel’s share” – the portion of the distillation lost to evaporation while aging in oak barrels.
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![Cocktail-making setup with ice bucket, bottles, garnishes, and glassses]()
7 brands we are grateful for this Thanksgiving
With a name like heavenly spirits, we expected something angelic and magical and they were happy to oblige. If we started to list the medals they won at Bartender Spirits Awards 2022, we’d be going on all day!
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![Dan and Christine Cooney stand in front of wooden barrels while visiting the cellars of Armagnac Delord.]()
USA: Waiting also for the Armagnac trade
Originally from La Rochelle, the homeland of cognac, Christine Cooney née Foubert has been living in the United States since the late 1980s. With her husband Daniel, she has been at the helm of the import company Heavenly Spirits since 2008. But the Charentaise woman has more than thirty years of experience in the spirits industry.
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![Four spirits bottles on a bar]()
Getting to Know the Cooneys, From France with Love
After a meet-cute on an eleven-hour flight, Daniel Cooney and Christine Foubert’s lives were changed forever.
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![Hand holding Glencairn whisky glass with dark dramatic lighting]()
Why Ultra-Aged Spirits are Ripping You Off
For those who seek to commemorate a benchmark birthday with a bottle, Armagnac may be your best bet.
Armagnac: Best aged up to 50 years
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![Gold and white Whiskey Lore circular logo on a black background.]()
Ep. 61 - Christine Cooney: Heavenly Spirits
While France might not be the first place you think of when it comes to whisky - there are compelling reasons it could be.
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![Line of liquor bottles with liquid spectrum from clear to dark brown left to right]()
Exploring the World of Armagnac
Armagnac is perhaps the most wine-like of spirits, and so it makes sense that, at Vinous, we begin our foray into the high-proof world of liquor by looking deeply into this classic brandy from Gascony.
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![Men sitting around an L-shaped bar tasting samples of Armagnac while a woman lectures]()
To Make Its Case, Armagnac Has to Teach the Teachers
Fine & Rare, a restaurant and bar in Midtown Manhattan, recently held an Armagnac tasting to educate its servers and bartenders about the lesser-known French brandy.
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![Bottles on a bottling line being filled with spirits]()
6 Things New Liquor Brands Should Know
At Heavenly Spirits, the emphasis is on quality over expedience. “The big houses,” she says, “do it because it’s all about money, but we do something different.”
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![Close up on two brandy snifters]()
Brandy & Cognac: Steady As They Grow
Christine Cooney, whose Heavenly Spirits imports and distributes five labels of Armagnac and four Cognacs, says her business has been growing steadily over the last five years. “We attribute that growth to a general interest among American consumers in artisanal spirits from all over,” she says. “Even though that’s a term overused and misused, Armagnac is nothing if not artisanal.”
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![Armagnac being poured into a tulip glass with title Slow Motion]()
Slow Motion: Moving at its own pace, Armagnac steps into the spotlight.
Armagnac will never see sales on par with those of vodka—or even other aged spirits like bourbon or single-malt scotch. But as the whiskey market booms and prices rise (especially in the U.S.) and drinkers increasingly look for spirits with a sense of not just quality, but authenticity, Armagnac is finally drawing more attention.
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![Man and woman on the loading dock of a warehouse with a pallet of spirits cases]()
A Match Made in Heaven
In 1985, Daniel Cooney and Christine Foubert boarded the same plane in Iceland and introduced themselves to one another. Christine, native to the Cognac region of France, and Dan, an Irish American from Southeastern Massachusetts.
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Buyers guide to Brandy or Cognac
“Taste is subjective; each person is different. The best way to learn, and to understand what you like is to taste a wide variety and compare,” says Daniel Cooney, co-found of Heavenly Spirits
Heavenly Press
Celebrating International Cognac Day 2026 - Just Luxe
May 30, 2026 — By Sean Hillen — Jean Fillioux: ‘Haut juché, juche le plus haut’ (Go high to see far) is the proud motto at the foot of a majestic symbolic rooster of this Master Blender family tracing their history to 1894 at their 25-hectare vineyard, Domaine de la Pouyade, in the heart of Grande Champagne.
A Taste of True French Vanilla, Arvani Liqueur - Chilled Magazine
Winter 2026 — Behind this elegant label lies a story of simplicity and sophistication. Crafted by macerating 100% Madagascar vanilla beans in young Bas-Armagnac, this liqueur captures the essence of pure French indulgence. After months of slow infusion, a delicate touch of sugar is added before the blend is rested, filtered, and bottled at 40% ABV—revealing a naturally rich, authentic vanilla experience unlike any other.
Liqueurs: Top 10 Best Selling Brands - Class. Report 2025 (pp.26-27)
2025 — Briottet: #2 Family-owned Briottet, perhaps best known for its Crème de Cassis, boasts dozens of flavoured liqueurs. Our poll indicated it is the most popular of the one-stop shops, the bestselling brand in 11% and a top three in just shy of a quarter of the UK’s best bars.
Liqueurs - Drinks International (pp. 56-57)
2025 — Briottet: #5 Best-selling Brands: It’s business as usual at the top of both charts, but the rest of the rankings show a reliance on French brands.
The 12 Best Digestifs to Drink After Thanksgiving, According to Bartenders - Food and Wine
November 19, 2025 — By Elliot Harrell — Chauffe Cœur “Hors d’Âge” Calvados is an apple-flavored brandy from the Normandy region in France. This particular variety is a favorite of Thomas Menaitreau, general manager at Windmills Craftworks in The Colony, Texas.“It stands out as a refined digestif that balances richness with orchard-fresh clarity at the close of a heavy meal, while being wallet-friendly.”
11 Wine, Spirits, and Non-Alcoholic Beverages to Stock for the Holidays - SevenFifty Daily
October 16, 2025 - By Tyler Wetherall — For Jacob Brower, the spirits buyer at Amanti Vino in Montclair, New Jersey, a must-have when heading into the holidays is a great selection of Cognac. This year, he’s excited about Jean Fillioux XO Grande Réserve Cognac, a release from Jean Fillioux—an independent grower-producer with vineyards in the heart of Grande Champagne.
The 20 Best Cognacs to Drink in 2025 - VinePair
October 15, 2025 — By Adam Goldfarb — The Best Cognacs Under $100: Distillerie du Peyrat Rare Prestige Organic Cognac, Normandin-Mercier Organic V.S.O.P. Petite Champagne; The Best Cognacs Over $100: Jean Fillioux Tres Vieux Cognac Grande Champagne
Say Hello to Your New Favorite Fall sipper—the Vanilla Calva-Tini - Chilled Magazine
October 5, 2025 — It’s the perfect blend of spice and sweetness featuring Comte Louis de Lauriston Calvados Fine (or Claque-Pepin Calvados Fine), Arvani Vanilla Liqueur, and sparkling apple cider. This cozy cocktail puts an autumnal twist on the classic Apple Martini. Santé!
Cognac: Classic Spirit, New Energy - Chilled Magazine
September 2025 — Welcome to Cognac, France, where a new generation is putting their creative stamp on the long tradition of making the highest regarded brandy in the world.
More Than a Standard Pour: The Case for Single Cask Spirits This Winter - Chilled Magazine
September 7, 2025 — Some bottles are meant to be shared. A single cask spirit isn’t just a pour, it’s proof that rarity, character, and craftsmanship can turn a winter evening into a moment people never forget.
Vive the Spirits of France - Chilled Magazine
September 1, 2025 — Chilled Magazine — An in-depth look at how Heavenly Spirits became the leading importer of Armagnac and other French spirits categories.
End of Summer Cocktails - Taste of France
September 12, 2025 — By Editors — At Heavenly Spirits, we believe every great spirit deserves to shine in the glass, not just on the shelf. That’s why we’re excited to launch a new cocktail series, sharing inspired recipes that showcase the craftsmanship, flavor, and versatility of our portfolio.
The French Apéro and How Best to Enjoy Apéritif Hour - Chilled Magazine
July 14, 2025 — Chilled Magazine — Exploring French farmhouse traditions, from KiKi Vendéen (Vin d’Épines) crafted with young blackthorn bushes, to traditional Pineau des Charentes and classic fortified aperitifs.
White Cosmo, from Le Sam Bistro at Fairmont Le Château Frontenac – Forbes
June 12, 2025 – By Emily Price - This delicate, subtle, floral and fresh take on the classic Cosmopolitan cocktail knows how to delight all palates from the first sip.
French Whiskey Deserves A Spot On Your Bar Cart—Here’s Why – Forbes
June 12, 2025 – By Emily Price - Thanks to a growing number of ambitious distillers and an audience eager for homegrown alternatives to Scotch or Irish whiskey, France is becoming a serious player in the global whiskey scene. And yes, the French are doing it their way—with regional ingredients, wine barrel finishes, and a deep respect for terroir.
Shaking It Up with Blanche Armagnac - Chilled Magazine
June 10, 2025 — Chilled Magazine — If you haven’t yet discovered Blanche Armagnac, now is the time. This vibrant and versatile white spirit has quietly been making waves, offering a crisp, fruit-forward eau-de-vie tailor-made for modern cocktails.
How world whiskies are filling the hunger for new French whisky, 40 years old... – Master of Malt
May 28, 2025 – By Adam O’Connell - Global whisky isn’t the future – it’s the now. From France to Mexico, Denmark to South Africa, distillers are reimagining what whisky can be. Ditch the dated labels, embrace the diversity, and pour something different.
Anatomy of the Bottle: Château de Hontambère - Chilled Magazine
May 1, 2025 — Chilled Magazine — What is the Essence of a Blanche Armagnac, and What Makes This One so Good?
French Whisky: A Oui Dram Worth a Closer Look – Chilled Magazine
Mar 25, 2025 - The ABCs of French Whisky: French whisky is a growing and exciting category of spirits that has garnered increasing attention from whisky connoisseurs worldwide. While France is most famous for its wines and brandies (especially Cognac), it has been slowly carving out its own niche in the whisky world.
Shaking and Stirring: Launches - Chilled Magazine
March 25, 2025 — New product launches from Heavenly Spirits including Comte Louis de Lauriston 100% Poire Calvados Domfrontais, and Cohobé Élévation Single Malt French Whisky from Spiritique.
The Most Expensive Cocktails in NYC Right Now - VinePair
February 25, 2025 — Hannah Staab — The Portrait Bar: Vieux Carré XOXO - The Portrait Barat the Fifth Avenue Hotel amplifies the classic by using high-end spirits like Michter’s 10 year Rye, Jean Fillioux XO Grande Reserve Cognac, Cappellano Barolo Chinato, and Bénédictine. The flex spirits in this drink earn it the lofty price of $65.
7 Best Pre-Mixed Cocktails to Serve at Your Super Bowl Party – Bottle Raiders
Jan 24th, 2025 – By Pedro Wolfe – Sometimes you have to think outside the box to perfect a tried-and-true recipe. Le Barteleur, a French cocktail brand launched in 2023, did exactly that with its twist on the margarita.
A first-time guide to Cognac, France - Lonely Planet
January 12, 2025 — By Laura Motta — J. Normandin-Mercier, located just outside La Rochelle, has been in the same cognac-making family for five generations. With a chicly rustic tasting room, a visit here feels like a peek into a private family estate.
Family values in Cognac and Armagnac - Decanter
January 10, 2025 — By Richard Woodward — Look further than the biggest names and you’ll find a plethora of fascinating, high-quality and characterful spirits made by smaller, family-oriented producers across the two regions.
Whisky Pick: Armorik Sherry Cask – TWiT Tech Podcast Network (YouTube)
Jan 6, 2025 - Every episode of TWiT's Windows Weekly podcast ends in a brown liquor pick of the week. In this clip from episode 895, Richard Campbell talks some crazy story about the French whisky Armorik from Brittany.
French Brandy: A Primer - Unicorn Auctions (Originally published in The New Wine Review)
December 20, 2024 — By Jason Wilson — Featuring reviews of the cask-strength Château de Hontambère Ténarèze XO and the rich, opulent Jean Fillioux Très Vieux XO Extra Grande Champagne.
Holiday Gift Guide 2024 - Chilled Magazine
December 5, 2024 — Chilled Magazine — A comprehensive spirits showcase spotlighting Hontambère Ténarèze Armagnac XO, Jean Fillioux Cognac Grande Champagne "XO Extra," Claque-Pépin Calvados Organic 10-Year-Old, and Distillerie Du Peyrat.
'Tis The Season for French Brandy - Chilled Magazine
December 1, 2024 — Chilled Magazine — With cooler weather now upon us, it’s the perfect time to include wonderfully versatile fruit-based spirits like Armagnac, Cognac, and Calvados on your drinks menu.
The 20 Best Cognacs to Drink in 2024 - VinePair
November 19, 2024 — By Tim McKirdy — Monnet Cognac V.S.O.P.A strong candidate for the “beginners” category, this V.S.O.P. is warm and inviting on the nose, bursting out of the gates with vanilla and cocoa aromas. Fruit remains similarly in the backseat on the palate, but the depth of flavors and introduction of toasted nuts and honeyed sweetness are a fine substitute, while expressed orange and lemon peel on the finish round everything out.
Sugar-cane juice rum: Get the juices flowing - Decanter
November 4, 2024 — By Millie Milliken — From Martinique to Grenada, sugar-cane juice rum is shaking up drinkers’ preconceptions.
The 9 Best World Whiskeys, According to Beverage Pros – SevenFifty Daily
October 17, 2024 – By Tyler Wetherall - Beverage directors and bartenders pick their favorite whiskey from lesser-known whiskey-producing countries, from a Taiwanese gold standard to a hard-to-find, small batch Spanish single malt.
A Look into the Origins of French Liqueurs in Celebration of National Liqueur Day with Heavenly Spirits - Chilled Magazine
October 16, 2024 — French liqueurs have a rich and complex history that reflect the nation’s cultural heritage and artisanal skills. In this article, we’ll explore the origins of French liqueurs and delve into the production processes of notable brands, including Noces Royales by Spiritique, Arvani by Artez, and several liqueur options by Jules Theuriet and Jahiot.
Spiritique to unveil French single malt whisky Cohobé at TFWA World Exhibition - The Moodie Davitt Report
September 11, 2024 – By Lara Netherlands - French craft spirits company Spiritique is to introduce its super-premium French single malt whisky brand Cohobé at the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes.
Top 10 French spirits for Bastille Day - The Spirits Business
July 12, 2024 — By Lauren Bowes — It’s been a huge week for France, and the country has much to celebrate ahead of its national day this weekend (14 July).
Just Open and Pour – Chilled Magazine
July 11, 2024 - The United States Ready-to-Drink (RTD) category has gotten an exciting new addition with the launch of Le Barteler premium bottled cocktails by Heavenly Spirits.
10 Vintages to Taste to Understand Single Varietal Rums - Rumporter
July 9, 2024 — By Fabien Humbert — With its floral and menthol notes and hints of brown sugar, it’s a delight of finesse.
KiKi Vendéen Launches in the US - Chilled Magazine
June 12, 2024 — By Isabella Cruz — The traditional, before-dinner drink from the Vendée region of France is also called a Vin d’Épines, made with local wine and sap-laden shoots harvested from blackthorn bushes.
KiKi launches in the US - The Spirits Business
June 4, 2024 — By Miona Madsen — Kiki is an apéritif produced in the Vendée region in western France and will be available in the US in red Epines Noires and white Poires de Vendée varieties.
Undeniable Versatility - Chilled Magazine
May 2, 2024 — By Chilled Magazine — Calvados Claque-Pépin is a leading producer of organic calvados. Claque-Pépin officially began in 2005. However, current owner, Benoît Louvet has been immersed in the world of distilling and aging for many years.
Charente-Maritime: the return of the vine to the gates of La Rochelle with the Domaine Normandin-Mercier - Sudouest
April 24, 2024 — By Philippe Baroux — Édouard and Audrey Normandin are replanting vines in Aunis to produce Pineau via an agroforestry project combining vineyards, forestry, and beekeeping.
French Whisky and Gin – Taste of France
May 22, 2024 – By Dominic Bliss - France has all the natural resources and know-how to rival the British when it comes to the art of distilling world-class whisky and gin…
Christine Cooney of Heavenly Spirits Invites You on a Parisian Spring Cocktail Fling - Chilled Magazine
March 19, 2024 — As warm Spring weather quickly approaches, we asked Christine Cooney, co-founder of Heavenly Spirits Imports about the topic of French inspired Spring cocktails and here is what she had to say.
Heavenly Spirits launches Le Barteleur, French-Made Premium Classic Cocktail – Chilled Magazine
March 6, 2024 - Debuting in France in 2021, Le Barteleur presents a line of premium classic bottled cocktails crafted with the finest natural ingredients, eco-conscious packaging, with an indefinite shelf life. With each bottle serving eight to ten drinks, Le Barteleur cocktails offer a professional-grade experience whether enjoyed at home or in bars.
The Beauty of Simplicity - Chilled Magazine
Feb 22, 2024 — Yu No non-alcoholic cocktails maintain commitment to quality and taste.
It’s Time To Join The World Whisky Party – Unicorn Auctions, Originally Published in The New Wine Review
February 12, 2024 – By Susannah Skiver Barton - No other category offers such diversity of flavor and innovation. So don your pith helmet and charge into the world whisky wilderness.
The 15 Best Sweet Vermouths for Your Manhattan (2024) – VinePair
January 29, 2024 – By Tim McKirdy - A blend of Pineau des Charentes and red and white wines, Guerin’s sweet vermouth pops with notes of candied apples, quince paste, and tart red candies. The bright and fruity Manhattan mixes therefore comes as no surprise, and if the season allows, we’d even be tempted to finish with a fresh red cherry garnish.
Le Barteleur RTDs enter the US – The Spirits Business
January 25, 2024 – By Ted Simmons - Le Barteleur, a French-made line of bottled cocktails, is entering the US with four products: Hanky Panky, Margarita, Espresso Martini, and Pornstar Martini.
5 Must Mix Mocktails Made with Yu No Gin - Chilled Magazine
February 8, 2024 — Established in 2018 by Laurent Berriat, Oliver Hidier, and Stephane Aussel, Spiritique stands as a distinguished French spirits brand, born from the collaborative efforts of three seasoned industry professionals.
Introducing Yu Gin: A Blend of Wabi-Sabi Philosophy and French Innovation - Gin Raiders
Jan 24th, 2024 — By Candie Getgen — “At the beginning of each story, or each creative process, there are just a few words,” Berriat informed Chilled Magazine. “For example, what makes a good gin? It must be refreshing and relaxing.”“Yuzu is probably the most elegant and refreshing ingredient known,” Berriat added. “That’s why we created Yu Gin and Yu No.”
8 VSOP Cognacs to Drink Right Now - Wine Enthusiast
January 22, 2024 — By Jonah Flicker — Normandin Mercier 7 VSOP opens with a distinctly nutty aroma, unfolding pecan, almond, and vanilla sweetness that lingers into a graceful exhale. (97 Points — Kara Newman).
The World's Best Cognacs of 2024 - Wine Searcher
January 15, 2024 — By Don Kavanagh — Spotlighting top bottles including Distillerie du Peyrat, one of the few producers focusing entirely on certified organic Cognacs.
Whisky Around the World: French Whisky – Chilled Magazine
January 10, 2024 - We kick off our annual content series, Whisky Around the World with a peek at French Whisky with category expert Daniel Cooney of Heavenly Spirits.French Whisky—It’s Getting Serious!
Best XXO Cognacs so far - Cognac Expert
January 10, 2024 — By Virginia Wenz — Since the introduction of the XXO category, a handful of other producers have brought out Cognacs bearing the classification. The XXO terminology does technically apply to any Cognac above 14 years of age, however, only a small number of houses have actually chosen to name their Cognacs as such.
An Exploration of Armagnac - Chilled Magazine
January 2, 2024 — Michael Tulipan — Tucked between the sea, the storied vineyards of Bordeaux, and the towering Pyrenees, bucolic Gascony has long been known for its hearty rustic cuisine and most famous export, Armagnac.
This Holiday Season, Give French Vermouth a Chance – France-Amerique
December 20, 2023 – By Daniel Cooney - You probably associate vermouth with the classic dry martini. But did you know that this fortified wine actually comes in a number of flavorful, easy-to-enjoy varieties? In the Charentes region of France, for instance, the Guerin family offers four unique styles of the beloved European aperitif.
We Asked 12 Bartenders: Which Cognac Offers the Best Bang For Your Buck? - VinePair
December 14, 2023 — By Richard Manning — “…With its smooth and rich flavor profile, Monnet Cognac adds depth and complexity that we weren’t finding with other Cognacs at a price point we could offer in a reasonably priced cocktail. We also wanted to make sure that it could be good enough to be proud to serve neat or on the rocks, and Monnet fits this exactly.”
The 50 Best Spirits of 2023 - VinePair
December 13, 2023 — By VinePair Staff — 24. Baies des Trésors Rhum Agricole Martinique ‘Fruits of the Rains’: Baies des Trésors produces single-plot agricole rhums with the goal of capturing the unique terroirs of different parts of Martinique. As mentioned in its name, this expression highlights cane grown on rainy slopes of the island, which translates to intense aromas of ripe stone fruits, and just a hint of funk. French oak aging brings a nice kiss of vanilla to the palate.
The Difference Between Cognac and Brandy, Explained - Wine Enthusiast
December 12, 2023 — By Kara Newman — Highlighting top-rated brandies under $50, including the Artez Historic Baco Armagnac, displaying a sweet vanilla fragrance and pleasing gingerbread notes. (94 Points).
3 Need To Know French Whisky Distillers – Chilled Magazine
December 3, 2023 - Did you know that the French drink more whisky a year than any other country?
Essential French Brandies: A Primer - Chilled Magazine
November 1, 2023 — By Naomi O’Brien — Dispelling the myths and misconceptions that arise around France’s most famous brandy exports, from Cognac to Armagnac and Calvados.
The 25 Best Cognacs for 2023 - VinePair
October 30, 2023 — By Tim McKirdy — From weeknight sippers to bar cart staples and bottles that redefine the boundaries of luxury, here are the 25 best Cognacs for 2023 at every age and price point.
Woman are Everywhere in the Cognac Industry” - France-Amerique
October 15, 2023 — By Daniel Cooney — In Cognac Women: Moving into the Light, just translated into English, Monique Fillioux showcases the work that women have been doing behind the scenes of one of the world’s most prestigious liquors.
A tipple tour to find the best Cognac in France - The Times UK
September 2, 2023 — By Nina Caplan — Experiences at the smallest houses are different again. At Jean Fillioux, the vineyards stretch down the hill behind the family home and hangar doors are left open for nesting swallows. Christophe Fillioux, who is the fifth generation, says: “I sell cognacs I didn’t harvest and put into barrel liquid I’ll never taste.”
Sorry Kentucky, France Might Be the Next Whisky Capital – France-Amerique
August 23, 2023 - Thirty years ago, you could count all the whisky producers in France on one finger. Today, there are at least 120 distillers at some stage of serious production, each with their own story and dreams of making the next great grand whisky.
The 30 Best Rum Brands (2023) - VinePair
August 10, 2023 — By Tim McKirdy — Fruity, rich, and expressive, with just a subtle hint of funk.
Sustainable, beautiful, intelligent, luxurious… the evolution of bottle designs for spirits - Spirits Hunters
July 17, 2023 — By Nathalie Baylaucq & Marie-France — The evolution of bottle designs and packaging for spirits assemble features that make them unique, creating a variety in the market.
10 Top-Rated Single-Malt Whiskeys That Aren’t Scotch – Wine Enthusiast
April 20, 2023 – By Kara Newman - Purists might be shocked. After all, conventional wisdom is that “single malt” is synonymous with “Scotch.” But increasingly, whiskey lovers know that’s not always true.
Vive Le Whisky – Santé Magazine
April 17, 2023 – By Drewsante - Many whisky fans may be surprised to know that France produces almost all the barley used for European malt whisky production and that they have been distilling spirits longer than any other European country.
Geeky French "Singles" Looking for a Good Time - Chilled Magazine
April 1, 2023 — Chilled Magazine — “Single Casks,” That Is! Cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados Producers Join in on the Fun.
Baie des Trésors Inaugurates its New Cellar – Rumporter
March 23, 2023 – Fabien Humbert – We must not forget that all our vintages are vintage, so they are not exactly the same every year, because the climate changes.
Calvados Comte Louis de Lauriston: Les Parcellaires - DistilNews
March 15, 2023 — Les Parcellaires is a new unique range highlighting the specificities of each Norman micro terroir through Single Cask bottlings. Three first editions have thus seen the light of day.
We Ask Laurent Berriat, Co-Owner of Spiritique, How to Build a Successful Spirits Brand? - Chilled Magazine
March 12, 2023 — Take three French spirit industry veterans with a combined 70 years of diversified creative experience and put them together with a challenge to create, and you’ve got Spiritique, a company creating and producing some of the most compelling and handsomely designed spirit brands in France today.
2 Must Mix Classic Cocktails made with Calvados - Chilled Magazine
March 12, 2023 — By Victoria Cece — In the world of brandies, an underdog is slowly stealing the show. Its name is Calvados.
Château de Hontambère - Armagnac.de/Distiled Grapes
2023 — Armagnac.de /Distilled Grapes — Lovers of old bourbon and rye whiskeys have known Hontambère primarily through the Rare Armagnac Collection, in which small quantities of purchased Armagnac are published.
Join the French-Celtic Whisky Revolution – Celtic Life
2022 - Daniel and Christine Cooney have been promoting quality French Spirits for over twenty years. Recently we spoke with Daniel about his company’s Celtic connections. Read more on pages 36-37
5 New Brandies to Try Now - Liquor.com
December 14, 2022 — By Susannah Skiver Barton — Showcasing vibrant flavor ranges and traditions that prove the potential of aged grape distillates goes far beyond a single style.
6 New Cognacs to Try Right Now - Liquor.com
November 10, 2022 — By Susannah Skiver Barton — The latest crop of new cognac spans craft producers and collectable bottles.
A Good Place to Start – Chilled Magazine
September 26, 2022 – Chilled Magazine – Rhum Agricole Baie des Trésors is a Pure Expression of Terroir
We Taste Baie des Trésors – Santé Magazine
September 20, 2022 – Santé Staff – Luxurious in its expression of Martinique terroir, 175 years of history expresses the complexity of these rhums.
On The Shelf: Spirits - Feast
July 28, 2022 — By Chad Michael George — Reviewing La Muse’s century-old recipe, filtered through wool and paper in a true toast to the original preparation process.
A New Vision in Rhum – Chilled Magazine
Jul 25, 2022 – A terroir driven Agricole rhum, Baie des Trésors is the pure and artistic expression of the French Martinique. It is made without any artifice or additives, molasses or caramel. The color is natural, and so is the taste.
Something New in Vermouth - Chilled Magazine
July 10, 2022 — Chilled Magazine — Guerin Vermouth Launches Dry Red as an Innovative Addition to the Line.
Chilled 100 Bartenders Cocktail Countdown to Bastille Day - Chilled Magazine
July 4, 2022 — Chilled Magazine — Dan Cooney of Heavenly Spirits dives into the history of the French National Holiday alongside the Guerin French Vermouth gifting program.
Rouges are Red, Violets are Blue - Chilled Magazine
July 1, 2022 — Chilled Magazine — The Chilled 100 Bartenders Celebrate Bastille Day with Heavenly Spirits.
Check Out The 2022 Chilled 100 Spirits Awards Winners - Chilled Magazine
June 24, 2022 — The results are in! Here are the Chilled 100-Point scores awarded to brands entering The Chilled 100 Spirits Awards 2022.
The 11 Best Vodkas for Martinis – VinePair
June 17, 2022 – VinePair Staff - Shaken or stirred? Olive or twist? Few cocktail conversations feel as tired as those concerning how you “should” enjoy a Martini. (Make and drink it however you damn please!) Yet one area remains where the record should be set straight: gin versus vodka.
Bistro La Fine Vodka Review – VinePair
June 16, 2022 – By Tim McKirdy - Tastes as good as the bottle looks.
Congratulations to the Chilled 100 Bartender Seal of Approval Winners! - Chilled Magazine
June 16, 2022 — Here are the brands that earned the Chilled 100 Bartender Seal of Approval, 2022. At Tuesday night’s Chilled 100 Spirits Awards Gala at BCB, we announced the brands who earned the coveted Chilled 100 Bartender Seal of Approval. Winning recipients were presented with their medals by our passionate and professional group of Chilled 100 Bartender Judges.
With Respect to the Environment - Chilled Magazine
May 18, 2022 — Distillerie du Peyrat produces Organic Cognacs under the watchful eye of the Rault family.
The Rault Family Is Making Organic Cognacs at The Distillerie du Peyrat - Chilled Magazine
May 14, 2022 — The Distillerie du Peyrat has distilled Cognacs for several decades but the family has been present as distillers in the Charentes region since 1705.
Get to Know Jules Theuriet Pamplemousse Liqueur from France - Chilled Magazine
March 31, 2022 — By Michael Tulipan — Best known for its portfolio of artisanal French spirits, distributed in 38 states, Heavenly Spirits has long provided a range of unique products that have become backbar mainstays.
Sip or Mix: 12 Favorite Gins For Every Budget - Wine Enthusiast
March 16, 2022 — By Wine Enthusiast — Gin is the key ingredient to some of the most iconic, classic cocktails, from the Negroni and French 75 to James Bond’s martini.
Claire Briottet, the French Queen of Cassis - France-Amerique
March 1, 2022 — By Daniel Cooney — In Dijon, the Briottets are considered blackcurrant royalty. They have been transforming the small, glossy, black berries into top-shelf liqueur since 1836. We recently sat down for an interview with Claire Briottet, 38, who now helms the family business – as the first female director in the company’s history – with her brother.
Spirits of the Year (2022) – Rumporter
February 16, 2022 - The Spirits of the Year, first edition, is a competition organized by the magazine Cavistes & e-commerce aimed at rewarding notable brand launches in 2021.
The Other Brandy: Why You Should Explore Armagnac - Forbes
February 5, 2022 — By Joseph V Micallef — Armagnac is the oldest brandy still produced in France, predating its better-known cousins in Cognac by several centuries.
Top 14 Brandies Perfect for Cocktails - Chilled Magazine
February 4, 2022 — By Victoria Cece — There’s plenty to love about brandy. From its variety to its versatility, it is hard to get bored of this aqua vitae. That’s because brandy isn’t just for sipping after dinner with your pinkies up—it is a spirit that loves to buddy up with its cocktail-ingredient friends as a mixer. Seriously, brandy can easily finagle its way into any cocktail lover’s life.
Where Will the Next Great Single Malt Come From – Whisky Advocate
February 2, 2022 – By Jonny McCormick - Scotland may have put single malt on the map, but in the past few years, more and more countries are embracing the style, curious to see how different climates and techniques can impact flavor. As a result, whisky drinkers have even more ground to cover when exploring and educating themselves. Here, we survey the global single malt landscape to determine where the next great single malt is most likely to arrive from.
Across the Globe, Single Malt Is Taking on a Whole New Life – Whisky Advocate
February 2, 2022 – By Jonny McCormick - A global community of distillers is transporting single malt whisky to new places, literally. By adding their own creativity and local techniques, resulting in exciting flavors and geographical styles, the single malt world is changing quickly. Because I sample and evaluate whisky blind, not knowing the identity of what I am tasting, I can tell you that Japan is not the last nation that will surprise us by joining the big leagues of single malt.
Cognac’s hidden houses - Club Enologique
January 3, 2022 — Richard Woodward — We all know the big Cognac names, even if only from our favourite hip-hop tracks. But, says Richard Woodard, a smattering of smaller, boutique producers are quietly making their voices heard, and are well worth seeking out. Can this family-owned model survive?
3 Cognac Cocktails To Ring In The New Year - Chilled Magazine
December 28, 2021 — Chilled Magazine — Opting for cognac-based drinks that are easy to mix and even easier to drink to toast the new year.
Say "Oui" to French Whisky – Chilled Magazine
Nov 18, 2021- The Quest for Elegance with Heavenly Spirits French Whisky Collection
The Warenghem distillery structures its low-carbon strategy – API with Ouest France
November 11, 2021 – By Maureen Le Mao - “Today, any increase in our production capacity will be correlated with a reduction in emissions.” It is in this dynamic that David Roussier, the general director of the Lannion distillery is in the process of structuring the investments planned during the first half of 2022.
Classically Aged: Eight of Our Favorite Armagnacs to Try Now - Wine Enthusiast
November 15, 2021 — By Kara Newman — Armagnac, the grape-based brandy from France’s Gascony region, has no problem holding its own against more famous counterparts.
Warenghem wants to reduce its carbon footprint – Ouest France
October 25, 2021 – By Cécile Kernivinen - “This assessment is a decision-making tool. We already know that, thanks to two or three projects, we will improve our carbon footprint,” rejoices David Roussier, who did not wait for the latest IPCC report to take climate change into account. “Our Armorik brand has already gone organic in recent years.”
Baie des Trésors – Rumporter
October 21, 2021 — Bay of Treasures: the latest from Martinique
10 Apple-Based Spirits to Try this Season - Wine Enthusiast
October 4, 2021 — By Kara Newman — Spotlighting Claque-Pepin Vieille Reserve Organic Calvados, showing fresh apple and vanilla aromas leading into a rich butterscotch palate. (97 points).
Get to Know Blanche Armagnac – Chilled Magazine
September 16, 2021 - French craft spirits company Spiritique is to introduce its super-premium French single malt whisky brand Cohobé at the TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes.
A New Gin Style Highlights Innovation Over Tradition - Wine Enthusiast
August 20, 2021 — By Kara Newman — While London Dry gins get most of the attention, so-called New Western gins have grown quickly in recent years.
3 French Cocktails to Celebrate Bastille Day – Chilled Magazine
July 15, 2021 - Celebrate Bastille Day and all things French spirits with three cocktails made by bartenders as part of our Countdown to Bastille Day with Heavenly Spirits!
2 Must Try French Cocktails For Bastille Day - Chilled Magazine
July 14, 2021 — By Chilled Magazine — Showcasing the Nectar d’Or cocktail mixed with Rétha Oceanic Gin and Claque-Pépin Organic Calvados.
Whiskey Review: Armorik Classic Breton Single Malt – The Whiskey Wash
July 13, 2021 – By Jason Marshall - With the use of French barley and water sourced from a natural spring known as Rest Avel (meaning “dwelling of wind”), Armorik aims to incorporate traditions as well region specific advantages to create a product distinctly recognized as their own. How very Celtic.
Check Out These Bastille Day Cocktails Made By Bartenders - Chilled Magazine
July 8, 2021 — Countdown to Bastille Day as six bartenders across the country mix up cocktails with a taste of France with help from Heavenly Spirits.
These Cocktails Need To Be On Your Special Menu This Bastille Day - Chilled Magazine
July 1, 2021 — Chilled Magazine — Heavenly Spirits challenged six bartenders across the country to develop unique cocktails, featuring creations like the Martin By The Sea using Rétha Oceanic Gin.
Small French Distilleries Lead the Way in Organic Spirits - Originally published in France-Amerique
June 18, 2021 — By Daniel Cooney — Small, French-owned craft distilleries are playing a big role in transitioning spirits like cognac, whiskey, and calvados toward organic production.
The 5 French Made Gins and Vodkas You Need Behind Your Bar – Chilled Magazine
August 12, 2021 – Chilled Magazine – How many French-made spirits are behind your bar? If you don’t have a collection of French gin and vodka, it’s time to add a few.
The Best Cognac Comes from a family of Master Blenders - Chicago Drinks Guide
June 1, 2021 — Chicago Drinks Guide — Led by a fifth-generation master blender, Jean Fillioux rose to new heights with the Best Spirit by Value award at the Bartender Spirits Awards.
Taste Test: Bistro Vodka – Taste of France
May 4, 2021 – By Peter - I have not been so surprised by a drink for a long time, and this will be one for cocktails on a beautiful day in the garden with friends.
6 Highballs For World Whiskey Day – Chilled Magazine
March 15, 2021 - Celebrate World Whiskey Day this May 15th with six Highball Cocktails from six distilleries around the world.
Single Malts Aren’t Just For Scotch – Wine Enthusiast
February 5, 2021 – By Kara Newman - While many still equate single malt with Scotch, increasingly spirits-lovers have come to embrace that striking single malts—whiskey made from malted barley, originating from a single distillery—are made in all corners of the world.
HEAVENLY SPIRITS ADDS TO PORTFOLIO – Chilled Magazine
February 5, 2021 – By Sophia DeVito - BASTILLE 1789 whisky was created and launched in 2010 by the Daucourt family in the Cognac region of France and has already earned several industry awards.
Heavenly Spirits adds France’s Bastille 1789 Single Malt Whisky to its Portfolio – Craft Spirits Mag
February 4, 2021 – By Staff - With whisky being the fastest growing category of new French spirits, Bastille 1789 Whisky has established itself as a winner for both quality and value. Originally launched in the United States in 2012, Bastille quickly found its place alongside some of the best-known names in the “World Whisky” category.
5 Armagnacs You Should Be Drinking Right Now - Liquor.com
September 24, 2020 — By Sarah Baird — Cognac’s lesser-known cousin is ready for its time in the spotlight.
Fancy a oui dram of French whisky? – Taste of France
July 16, 2020 – By Peter - Known the world over for their fines wines, Cognacs and Armagnacs, we don’t tend to associate the French with whisky. So when Peter Cullingford was offered the chance to try a single malt distilled in Brittany, naturally he jumped at the chance…
Vermouth Guérin: a French newcomer - Spirits Hunters
March 5, 2020 — By François Monti — The appearance of a new traditional French vermouth brand is excellent news as the historic aperitif category rises from the ashes.
Rare Vintage Posters Bring $1.9 Million At Auction - Antiques and Arts Weekly
March 3, 2020 - Another Cappiello gem, a rare preparatory maquette for his well-known “Cognac Monnet,” circa 1927, rendering the cognac brand’s slogan “sunshine in a glass” as a Bacchus-like nymph expressing her adoration for the beverage, reached $52,800.
Five Generations of Tradition are Showcased at Cognac Jean Fillioux – Wine Destinations
January 14, 2020 – By Wine Destinations - Family owned for five generations, Cognac Jean Fillioux is still going strong and producing award winning cognacs. Founded in 1880 by Honoré Fillioux, in Grande Champagne and in the heart of Cognacs Golden Triangle, Domaine de la Pouyade remains to this day the home of Cognac Jean Fillioux.
Et Moi Je Te Dis Maud - Punch
August 14, 2019 — By Franky Marshall — Diving into the history of the drink that earned Maud Loty first place in a historic 1929 celebrity cocktail competition.
Three Little Brandies Perched on My Doorstep - The Wine Stalker
April 4, 2019 — By Joey Casco — Reviewing a phenomenal 3-pack flight of distinct Artez Armagnacs, highlighting the incredibly well-balanced Ugni Blanc.
Top Liqueurs Of 2019 To Stock Your Bar With - Bartenders Business
January 1, 2019 — Bartenders Business — Stock your bar with these flavorful liqueurs to elevate your customer experience.
TOP 20 The Most Exciting Whiskies of 2018 – Whisky Advocate
2018 - #6 - Armorik Double Maturation France has quietly been making some exciting whiskies, and keeping most to itself. Fortunately, Warenghem Distillery in Brittany exports a number of single malts, which it has been making for over two decades.
Liberté, Egalité, Whisky – Whisky Advocate
Winter 2018 – By Susannah Skiver Barton - Famous for world-class wine and fine cuisine, France adds whisky to its repertoire.
Joyeuses Fêtes - France-Amerique
December 2018 — By Sébastien Gaudard — La Buche: Chestnut Cream and Pear Yule Log: This Christmas season, treat yourself to a slice of yule log, served with Cognac Jean Fillioux's 8-year-old, La Pouyade.
A oui dram: How the French are using their wine-making expertise for whisky – The Telegraph
December 25, 2018 – By David Chazan - Celebrated for champagne, claret and cognac, the French are not known for their savoir-faire in producing whisky, but that could be about to change. The French are seeking to exploit their wine-making expertise to produce whiskies with a distinctively Gallic range of aromas.
The Apple Of A Brandy Drinker’s Eye - Vinous
November 15, 2018 — By Jason Wilson — Forget about grapes in Normandy. The climate is unpredictable, making the apple king in this coastal region that stretches along the English Channel.
Eau Naturel: Jean-François Rault, Pioneer of Organic Cognac - France Today
October 1, 2018 - By Marion Sauvebois — Marion Sauvebois heads to Charente to meet Jean-François Rault, a pioneer of organic cognac – and all-round free spirit.
Wine Press: Armagnac - affordable French brandy perfect for cold nights - MassLive
March 28, 2018 — By Ken Ross — Made from distilled wine from southwestern France, Armagnac is an affordable, rich alternative to higher-priced distilled spirits like Single Malt Scotch.
Cognac shot sold for £10k breaks world record - The Spirits Business
March 22, 2018 — By Nicola Carruthers — The limited-edition Rome de Bellegarde, discovered in the cellars of Jean Fillioux, is believed to be the very first blend created by the house in 1894.
Shot of cognac sells in London bar for £10k - Sky News
March 21, 2018 — Sky News — A record-breaking 40ml serving of Rome de Bellegarde sells after being unearthed in the historic cellars of Cognac house Jean Fillioux.
The Best Armagnacs for Sipping Under $100 - Punch
February 14, 2018 — Punch Staff — Often bolder in profile, Armagnac has benefited in many ways from growing in the shadow of France’s far more tony grape brandy, Cognac.
Ready to Take Your Cognac Game to the Next Level? - Wine Enthusiast
February 2, 2018 — By Kara Newman — Tracing an uptick in rare, single-vintage bottlings as houses like Normandin-Mercier (1976) dip into their hidden "Paradis" caves.
Taste the Terroir: Whisky à la Française – France Today
January 5, 2018 – By Marion Sauvebois - Could this be the golden age of French whisky? Marion Sauvebois investigates the meteoric rise of the ‘oui’ dram.
Cognac: Variety is the Spice of Life - Wine-Searcher
December 12, 2017 — By W. Blake Gray — Examining a different kind of Christmas spirit, looking closely at artisanal variation within the region.
Whisky Review: Bastille 1789 Blended Whisky – The Whiskey Wash
August 9, 2017 – By Aaron Knapp - With a name like Bastille 1789, a distillery is almost certain to conjure images of the French Revolution in the minds of those who pass by a bottle in the store, particularly of Parisians storming the castle in 1789.
Whisky Is Made in More Places Than You Think – The Whiskey Wash
May 3, 2017 – By Katelyn Best - It may come as a surprise to learn that the world’s top consumer of Scotch per capita isn’t the U.K. or the U.S., but France. And the French are distillers, too. One of the earlier outposts of French whiskey is Warenghem, a 117-year-old fine Bretagne distillery that branched out into whisky in the late 80s. They released their first single malt, labeled Armorik, in 1998.
The Rare Armagnac Collection and its award-winning spirits - Telegraph UK
June 15, 2016 — By Victoria Moore — Celebrating the romantic, rustic nature of Armagnac—a craft spirit possessing fierce quantities of personality and individuality.
FPP's Best Moment(s): Cognac - Spending the Day with the Fillioux Family at Domaine de la Pouyade in Grande Champagne.... and more - Spirit Journal
June 2016 — By F. Paul Pacult — On my tenth trip to Cognac in 2012, I spent an afternoon with the Fillioux family, Pascal, Monique and son Christophe, at their 63-acre estate in the prime acreage of Grande Champagne, the famed Golden Triangle consisting of Verridres, Angeac-Champagne and Juillac-le-Coq.
Elevenses: 5 Whiskies Fit for Morning – Eater
Feb 17, 2016 – By Susan H. Gordon - Warenghem’s Armorik Breton single malt is made with 100 percent French malted barley, and the clear granite-tinged waters of nearby Rest Avel.
Ask A Somm: Which Aperitif Wines Are Best Before a Holiday Meal? - Eater
December 3, 2015 — By Kat Odell — Kick off your festive dinners with these top sommelier-recommended aperitif wines.
Know Your French Brandy: The Differences Between Cognac & Armagnac - VinePair
July 15, 2015 — By Aliza Kellerman — Cognac isn’t the only great French spirit out there. Ensure you don’t deprive your bar of its older sibling, Armagnac.
Discovering Pineau - Market Watch
July 1, 2015 — By Laura Pelner — Fortified French aperitif Pineau des Charentes steadily gains ground as a primary cocktail component in top bars.
Happiness Is a Warm Cocktail - The Wall Street Journal
January 30, 2015 — By Matthew Kronsberg — Three comforting cocktail recipes engineered to turn up the heat during freezing winter months.
Featured Spirits: Brandy - Cigar & Spirits
July/August 2014 — Brandy has a long standing reputation as the gentleman’s drink. Traditionally intended to be leisurely sipped as an after dinner drink, brandy has become so much more than that.
Spirit of the Age: A connoisseur's guide to the complex world of cognacs - Style
Winter 2014/2015 — By Robin Lynam — The world of cognac can sometimes appear vast and complex, so let’s begin with a couple of the basics.
Jean Fillioux: Cognac’s Promised Land - Tasting Notes NYC, Astor Wines & Spirits
March 17, 2014 — Astor Wines & Spirits — For over 130 years, the Fillioux family name has been synonymous with Grande Champagne quality, passed down for five generations from father to son.
Why Aren't We Drinking This? - Esquire
January 1, 2013 — By David Wondrich — A closer look at overlooked, highly complex regional spirits that are interesting, exceptionally good, and relatively inexpensive.
Review: Bastille 1789 Blended French Whisky – DrinkHacker
May 27, 2012 - By Christopher Null - Quite a light, lovely, and unexpected whisky, and well worth the price.
Calvados: Apple Brandy at its Core - Flavors Magazine
Winter 2011 — By Ophelia Santos — The special drink of Normandy is Calvados, an apple brandy.
Cognac Enters the Mix - The Washington Post
March 4, 2009 — By Jason Wilson — Interviewing traditional distillers like Pascal Fillioux on how they view the modern cocktail revival. The 20 Best Cognacs to Drink in 20253 Cognac Cocktails To Ring In The New Year