From Wine to Whisky: France’s Spirited Transformation Unveiled in New Tome
A groundbreaking new book on French whisky is slated for release in France. Authored by Matthieu Acar, “Une Brève mais Intense Histoire de Whisky Français” (A Brief but Intense History of French Whisky) delves into France’s whisky journey, tracing its evolution from experimental beginnings in the 1980s to its contemporary significance.
Set to be published by Flammarion on September 27, the book promises to be an authoritative source on the subject.
Born in Paris, Acar initially discovered whisky through family connections and has nurtured this passion with exploratory trips to Scotland’s Highlands, Islay, and Orkney. In 2013, he scoured France to connect with whisky makers and joined La Maison du Whisky in 2016. A year later, he launched a website promoting French whisky and has been instrumental in initiating La Maison du Whisky’s “Version Française” line.
The book’s blurb states:
“France, renowned for wine, cognac, Armagnac, and Calvados, now stakes its claim in whisky. From the initial malt distillation experiments in the 1980s, whisky production has flourished nationwide. Spanning from Brittany to Provence, Alsace, and Corsica, numerous distillers have passionately ventured into whisky making. Currently, about a hundred producers are crafting whiskies that reflect the quintessence of their native terroirs. With exhaustive expertise, Matthieu Acar guides us through this compelling narrative.”
This 288-page tome, retailing at €45, showcases 84 producers who marketed whisky in 2023. It details each distillery’s history, production traits, and unique profiles. Photography for the book is provided by Darmesh Varane.
