Brenne

French whisky is a rapidly growing category both in terms of scale of production and also reputation. One of the earliest brands to break out into a wider market was Brenne, founded by ex-ballerina Allison Parc in 2012. Wanting to prove that 'terroir' was also applicable to whisky as well as wine, Allison worked with a 3rd generation Cognac producer at a small farm-distillery in the Cognac region to produce a fully organic, non-GMO whisky in which all ingredients are locally sourced - even the water to dilute the ABV is taken from the nearby Charentes River.

The spirit is aged in virgin Limousin oak casks alongisde casks that have previously held Cognac. The whisky has no age statement but various sources have an average of around 6 years old for the current releases.

However, that youthfulness is supported by incredible rich and sweet fruity flavours, due in no small part to the influence of the Cognac casks. This is one of the sweetest whiskies I've ever tried, almost to the point of it being a whisky liqueur. But I think it's fabulous as a result, with a density of unctuous dark fruit, hints of lemon cream and a delicate floral note. It's reminiscent of sweet French pastries, and has a character all of its own, which as a 'new' brand to the market is all important in my book. I love this, but I do appreciate it may be too dessert-y for some people, so if you prefer 'drier' spirits this may not be for you.