Armorik Small Batch Chouchenn

 

 

 

46°

Distillery : Warenghem - France 

Chouchenn and French Breton oak Casks

Original Bottling 

Core Range 

Single Malt 

Launched in 2026

Unchillfiltered, Uncoloured

Totally Unpeated

 

 

 

Launched as a limited edition in 2025, this whisky was quickly added to the core range the following year due to its success. It is a bold move to produce a whisky aged in Chouchenn casks – Chouchenn being a mead native to Brittany, that is to say, a honey-based spirit. And they did just that. But what’s more, not content with simply producing the only whisky of its kind, they have gone to great lengths to create a whisky that is exclusively Breton. The only casks used are Breton oak casks, either new or previously used for Chouchenn, the barley comes mainly from Brittany and is, moreover, certified organic, and bottling takes place on the distillery’s premises. The only aspect about which we know nothing, or very little, is the malting process, other than that it complies with organic regulations. In any case, this is a product whose originality is bound to appeal to any self-respecting whisky lover. 

 

 

 

Let's Taste It : 

First of all, a rather rich and thick waxiness, then the honey fills the nose. Makroudes, cinnamon biscuits, cloves, royal jelly, candied mirabelle plums. Behind this, the wood offers a lovely velvety texture, varnish, Vendée brioche, crunchy caramel, and lovely notes of vanilla. Flambéed bananas, melted butter. Honey-coated fruit on the palate, pears and peaches, a few dates and raisins. The spices are subtle, faint maritime hints in the background. A fairly long finish, slightly astringent, chocolate sweets, dark honey, a pinch of earth, liquorice and dried figs. 

 

In Short, 

Here, originality goes hand in hand with a certain quality, the virgin oak casks are used to great effect and blend with the honey without imparting the slightest hint of bitterness. There are a few flaws, notably a finish that is a little aggressive, though long and rich, and a palate that is just a touch light. Overall, however, I think it’s a success, and I’d even say this is the direction to take. Doing what others don’t do, and doing it well, that goes without saying. The price is, of course, a little high, the Research & Development department’s efforts need to be recouped, but it’s still reasonable. Buying a bottle might just satisfy your curiosity. 

Score : 85

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                             To Be Listened While Sipping : 

                                             Denez Prigent featuring Lisa Gerrard - An Hini a Garan