French-owned Camus Distillery has started whisky production at its newly inaugurated US$30 million Guqi Distillery in China. The company is known for the Cognac brand, a premium whisky.
According to a press release, one of China’s largest distilleries, Gujinggong, is the partner of a new project that aims to make the most aromatic whiskies in the world. The project, dubbed the Guqi Distillery, is located alongside the Gujinggong Distillery facilities.
As far back as 2022, Camus revealed plans to create the ambitious project and expand its products into the Chinese market.
“At Guqi, we believe that greatness comes from drawing inspiration across time and cultures. Through the combination of ancient Chinese wisdom and modern Western techniques, we are reimagining what is possible in whisky,” said Ryan Camus, general manager of Guqi Distillery.
Camus Distillery Opens Whisky Production in China
The luxury brand Camus belongs to a French cognac house that was founded in 1863 by Jean-Baptiste Camus. The distiller has grown globally and is renowned for express services to whisky tourism. Fans and enthusiasts can enjoy guided tours and tasting sessions, including the option to create their own blend of cognac
Listing some of the ideal features of the terroir of the Bozhou region, the manager hinted at several benefits for whisky production. These include its mineral-rich, naturally alkaline’ water, and the ‘intense seasonal climate’ enabling accelerated maturation of the whisky.
“When we started this project, we said we are absolutely not producing Scotch in China. It’s Chinese whisky made in China,” Camus told The Spirits Business earlier this year. “We want to show that Chinese whisky is different and just as great as other whisky.”
Officially named Maison Camus, the distillery is one of the largest family-owned cognac brands today. “For over 160 years, Maison Camus has been a beacon of aspiration and distinction. Founded in 1863 by the visionary Jean-Baptiste CAMUS, the brand “La Grande Marque” has grown to become the largest cognac house that proudly maintains its family ownership & independence.”
