Warenghem distillery logo since 1900

Warenghem Distillery

Region
  • France
Awards
  • World Whisky of the Year 2022, Best French Whisky Single Malt 2020, Best European Single Malt Whisky 2013
Website
  • https://distillerie-warenghem.bzh/
Phone Number
  • +33296370008
Address
  • Route de Guingamp, Boutill, 22300 Lannion, France

Armorik Whisky Distillery building exterior.

History of Warenghem Distillery

 

The Warenghem Distillery, a century-old independent, family-owned producer of Breton spirits, is deeply rooted in the Lannion region on the pink granite coast in Côtes d’Armor. This historical distillery, founded in 1900, has carved out a significant place in the spirits industry, particularly in Brittany.

Founding and Early Operations

Established in 1900, Warenghem Distillery began its journey by producing high-quality liqueurs. It focused on distilling, blending, and bottling its products directly at the distillery site. The founding was driven by a commitment to quality and artisanal craftsmanship.

Evolution under Gilles Leizour

A pivotal moment in the distillery’s history came in 1983 under the direction of Gilles Leizour. With a deep passion for innovation and whisky, Leizour transformed the distillery into the first whisky distillery in Brittany and France. This move was a significant step, marking the distillery’s expansion into new spirit territories.

Fine Bretagne: Embracing Local Terroir

In 1992, the distillery, continuing its innovation, began focusing on Fine Bretagne, a spirit distilled from the emblematic apples of the region. Gilles Leizour, recognizing the potential of this local fruit, used an old copper-column still to produce a fruity and flavorsome Fine Bretagne, further embedding the Breton terroir into the distillery’s identity.

Recognition as a Living Heritage Company

In 2019, the Warenghem Distillery was designated a Living Heritage Company by the French government. This prestigious recognition highlighted the distillery’s excellence in artisanal and industrial know-how and affirmed its commitment to maintaining traditional techniques while striving for excellence.

Current Status and Outlook

Today, the Warenghem Distillery stands as a testament to more than a century of artisanal experience and innovation. It continues to produce exceptional spirits, including its renowned single malt that reflects the unique Breton character. The distillery’s ongoing commitment to quality and innovation ensures its prominent place in the spirits industry, both in Brittany and beyond.

Timeline of Warenghem Distillery’s History

1900: Foundation and Early Years

  • Founding of Warenghem Distillery: Established in Lannion, on the pink granite coast in Côtes d’Armor, the distillery begins its operations focusing on high-quality liqueurs.

1983: Whisky Distillation Begins

  • Innovation under Gilles Leizour: Gilles Leizour, driven by his passion for innovation and whisky, transforms Warenghem into Brittany’s and France’s first whisky distillery, marking a significant shift in the distillery’s product range.

1992: Introduction of Fine Bretagne

  • Embracing the Breton Terroir: The distillery starts producing Fine Bretagne, a spirit distilled from local apples, using an old copper-column still. This step further embeds the Breton identity into the distillery’s products.

2019: Recognition of Excellence

  • Awarded the Living Heritage Company Label: The French government honors the Warenghem Distillery with the prestigious Living Heritage Company designation, recognizing its excellence in artisanal and industrial know-how.

Present Day

  • Continued Tradition and Innovation: Warenghem Distillery remains a significant player in the spirits industry, renowned for its exceptional single malt that captures the unique Breton character. The distillery continues its tradition of quality and innovation, maintaining its status as a leader in the Breton spirits industry.

This timeline encapsulates the key milestones and transformations in the history of the Warenghem Distillery, reflecting its enduring legacy and ongoing commitment to excellence in the spirits industry.

Awards Won by Warenghem Distillery

  1. World Whisky of the Year 2022:
    • Award: Armorik French Single Malt Whisky Yeun Elez won at the 2022 Bartender Spirits Awards.
    • Features: Distinguished by its Scottish peated malted barley; noted for its delicate, elegant, and fruity peat profile.
  2. Best French Whisky Single Malt 2020:
    • Award: Yeun Elez variety received at the World Whiskies Awards.
    • Significance: Recognized for its quality in the peated whisky category​.
  3. Gold Medals at Renowned Competitions:
    • Awards: Armorik Sherry Cask French Single Malt Whisky BIO received gold medals at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017 and the International Spirits Challenge 2021; silver medal at the Concours Général Agricole 2019.
    • Features: Matured in oloroso sherry casks, known for its spicy notes and candied fruits​.
  4. Best European Single Malt Whisky 2013:
    • Award: Armorik Double Maturation French Single Malt Whisky BIO won at the 2013 World Whiskies Awards.
    • Features: Undergoes maturation in Breton oak and oloroso sherry casks.
    • Additional Recognition: Received “Double Gold” at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition.

Warenghem Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Visiting the Warenghem Distillery offers a unique experience for whisky enthusiasts and curious visitors alike. The distillery provides several types of guided tours, each tailored to different interests and levels of whisky knowledge. Here’s a breakdown of what they offer:

  1. Guided Tour “Découverte”:
    • Duration: 45 minutes
    • Cost: 5€
    • Includes a guided tour of the distillery and cellars, followed by an introduction to whisky tasting.
    • Available in English during certain times.
    • Scheduled from July to August and April to September at various times, and at specific times in winter.
  2. Guided Tour “Brut de Fût”:
    • Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
    • Cost: 15€
    • Limited to 15 participants.
    • An in-depth visit of the distillery followed by a guided and exclusive tasting session.
    • Conducted from April to September at 10am and in winter at 10.30am.
  3. Guided Tour “Brut de fût Nocturne”:
    • Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
    • Cost: 15€
    • For groups of 4 to 15 people.
    • A special evening tour offered one Friday per month at specific times, with dates available throughout the year.
  4. Guided Tour “Maître de Chai”:
    • Duration: Approximately 2 hours
    • Cost: 50€
    • Limited to groups of 4 to 12 people, aged 18 and over.
    • An exclusive tour led by the cellar master, including a tasting in the cellars.
    • Scheduled on select Fridays throughout the year.
  5. Workshops:
    • The distillery also offers a “Blending School” and a “Tasting Workshop”:
      • The Blending School (Skol Wiski Armorik) is a 2 hour 30 minute workshop priced at 110€ for a group of 8, where participants can blend their own Breton Single Malt Whisky.
      • The Tasting Workshop, lasting 1 hour and costing 15€, is designed to educate participants on the nuances of whisky tasting.

In addition to these tours, the visit to Warenghem Distillery includes a journey through the distillation process, from the stills to the ageing cellars, and concludes with a guided tasting session in the Armorik tasting room. The facility is accessible to those with reduced mobility, and assistance dogs and guide dogs are permitted within the distillery.

Booking for these tours is essential and can be done online or by contacting the distillery directly. The tours are available in English during certain times, and the distillery operates year-round with specific opening times.

Flask & Barrel Review of Warenghem Distillery

As a seasoned whisky collector who has toured numerous distilleries, I recently had the pleasure of visiting the Warenghem Distillery in Brittany, and I must say, it was a remarkable experience. Here’s my take on it, rating it a solid 4.7 out of 5.

Firstly, the location of the distillery itself is a standout feature. Nestled in picturesque Brittany, the setting adds an element of charm to the whole experience. The blend of traditional methods with modern touches in their distilling process is something that really caught my eye. It’s clear that they respect their roots while embracing innovation.

The tour I opted for was the “Brut de Fût”. It lasted for about an hour and a half and cost 15€ – a price I found quite reasonable for the depth of the experience. The highlight for me was the exclusive tasting session at the end. Their range of whiskies, especially the Armorik Single Malt, showcased a complexity and depth that was both unique and delightful.

What’s more, the guide was knowledgeable and engaging, which made the technical aspects of whisky production accessible and interesting. I particularly enjoyed the stories woven into the tour about the distillery’s history and its contributions to Breton whisky-making.

The distillery’s commitment to quality was evident in every aspect of the tour. From the meticulously maintained ageing cellars to the detailed explanations of their distillation process, it’s clear why their products have received international acclaim.

However, I deducted a small fraction from a perfect score due to the limited availability of certain special editions in their boutique. As a collector, I was hoping to add a rare find to my collection, but understandably, these editions are in high demand.

What To Do Nearby Warenghem Distillery

Côte de Granit Rose: Known for its pink granite rock formations, this geological marvel is a must-see. It’s perfect for a scenic walk or photography, located just 0.3 miles from the distillery.

Eglise de Brélévenez: This historical church, situated 1.4 miles away, is famous for its picturesque setting and architecture. It’s an ideal spot for history buffs.

Réserve Naturelle des Sept Îles: A nature reserve approximately 1.4 miles from the distillery, offering a chance to observe diverse bird species and enjoy the natural beauty.

Chemin de Halage: This hiking trail, 1.8 miles away, is perfect for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the local landscapes.

La Ferme Enchantee: Located 1.2 miles from the distillery, it’s a charming farm that provides a delightful experience for families.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Warenghem Distillery?

The Breizh Shelter: It has a rating of 4.3 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +33 2 96 37 27 27. Their address is 32 Av. du Général de Gaulle, 22300 Lannion, France.

Le Barn’s: This restaurant also enjoys a 4.3-star rating. Call them at +33 2 96 38 37 68 to book a table. Le Barn’s is located at 31-33 Pl. du Général Leclerc, 22300 Lannion, France.

L’Aventure: With a 4.3-star rating, L’Aventure can be contacted for reservations at +33 2 96 37 59 16. The restaurant’s address is 3 Rue des Cordiers, 22300 Lannion, France.

What hotels are near Warenghem Distillery?

ibis Lannion Côte de Granit Rose: It has a rating of 4.1 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +33 2 96 37 03 67. Their address is 30 Av. du Général de Gaulle, 22300 Lannion, France.

Hotel Arcadia: This hotel enjoys a 4.2-star rating. To book a stay, call them at +33 2 96 48 45 65. Hotel Arcadia is located at Route de Perros Guirec, 22300 Lannion, France.

Concept Appart’Hôtel Lannion-Côte de Granit Rose: With a 4.9-star rating, this hotel can be contacted for reservations at +33 7 83 59 23 50. The address is 6 Rue Goas Congar, 22300 Lannion, France.