The Chuan Pure Malt 疊川純麥威士忌

Distillery Background and History

The Chuan is a new prestige malt whisky project by Pernod Ricard in China, located at the foot of Mount Emei in Sichuan province. It was officially launched in December 2023.  The distillery is built to reflect both modern design and natural surroundings, blending whisky craft with Chinese aesthetic sensibilities. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The Chuan’s whisky program is led under the oversight of Pernod Ricard’s blending and distillation expertise, with Dr. Yang Tao mentioned as a Master Distiller in promotional materials.  The philosophy is to combine international whisky craftsmanship with Chinese terroir — using multi-continent oak maturation (American, Spanish sherry, and Chinese oak) to build layered complexity. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

The Chuan uses a mix of European and Chinese barley.  Water is sourced from the local Emei Mountain region, known for its misty climate and mountain springs.  The oak used includes Chinese Danling oak from Changbai Mountain for unique local character. 

Distillation Process

Fermentation is lengthy (up to 100 hours) for The Chuan Pure Malt Whisky.  The distillery employs two Forsyth copper pot stills — a 20,000 L wash still and a 14,000 L spirit still.  Some portion of the liquid is sourced (or blended) from Pernod Ricard’s existing Scotch holdings in early versions. 

Maturation & Cask Information

The Chuan Pure Malt is matured using three types of oak: American bourbon barrels, Spanish sherry casks, and proprietary Chinese Danling oak casks.  This triple oak strategy shapes vanilla and fruity notes (from bourbon), candied sweetness and structure (from sherry) and oriental spice / sandalwood / mandarin peel notes (from Danling oak). 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Floral and fruity – pear, ginger, soft vanilla. 

Palate: Light and biscuity, with touches of digestive biscuit, soft fruit, and grass. 

Finish: Harmonious and gentle to finish, delicate oak influence. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs with light desserts (pear tart, vanilla panna cotta), soft cheeses, fruit compotes, and dishes that emphasize subtle sweetness or citrus notes.

Service Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Best served neat or with a small drop of water to open aromas. Use a Glencairn or tulip whisky glass to concentrate the bouquet. Serve at ~16-18 °C.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, stable — not intended for further aging in the bottle. Store upright in cool, dark, stable conditions (~15-20 °C). Once opened, consume within 1–2 years to preserve aromatic qualities.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Blended malt / pure malt (from multiple malt sources) rather than single distillery (in current release). 

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %