Coperies: A Guide to the New Wave of French Whiskey

From Cognac Country Comes a New Kind of Whiskey

When you think of French spirits, your mind likely goes to Cognac, Armagnac, or maybe a crisp gin. But France is also one of the world's biggest consumers of Scotch whisky, and now, a growing number of distillers are crafting their own. This post is your guide to this exciting new category, viewed through the lens of a bottle that embodies its spirit: Coperies French Whiskey.

We'll explore what makes French whiskey distinct, how Coperies is made by a family with centuries of distilling experience, and how you can enjoy this expressive spirit.

What is French Whiskey?

Unlike bourbon or Scotch, French whisky doesn't have a strict set of rules governing its production. This freedom allows for a wide range of styles, but a few common threads are emerging. Most are single malts, made from 100% malted barley, but distillers are free to use other grains.

The biggest influence comes from France's other celebrated spirits. Many producers use the same copper pot stills as Cognac distillers and age their whisky in a variety of French oak casks, including those that previously held wine or brandy. This creates whiskies with a distinctly fruity, elegant, and often unpeated profile.

Coperies: A New Chapter in an Old Story

Coperies is the first whiskey from the Merlet family, who have been distilling in the Cognac region since 1850. In 2021, brothers Luc and Pierre Merlet launched the brand to apply their deep knowledge to a new spirit. The name itself, "Coperies," is an old local word for "harvest," grounding the spirit in its agricultural roots.

While this expression is new, the family's skill is already apparent. Another release, the peated Coperies Les Brumes, was awarded a Gold Medal at the 2026 Concours Général Agricole in Paris.

How Coperies French Whiskey is Made

The production of Coperies is a masterclass in French technique. It begins with 100% French-grown and malted barley, creating a spirit with a true sense of place.

The barley wash is then double distilled in traditional Charentais copper pot stills, the same kind the family uses to make their Cognacs. This method is known for producing a smooth, aromatic, and flavorful spirit.

Finally, the whiskey is aged in French oak barrels. The Merlet brothers use a combination of new and used casks, allowing them to balance the fresh, fruity character of the distillate with gentle notes of spice and wood from the oak.

Tasting Notes: The Influence of Cognac Country

The result of this process is a whiskey that is approachable and full of character. It's a great example of the fruit-forward style that defines much of French whisky.

• Nose: Fruity and floral, with a character that brings to mind a young, vibrant Cognac.
• Palate: Sweet and brandy-like. Notes of rum raisin, lavender, and brown sugar create a rich and pleasant mouthfeel.
• Finish: Smooth and warming, with the sweet notes of fruit and sugar gently fading.

How to Enjoy Coperies French Whiskey

Thanks to its smooth and flavorful profile, Coperies is versatile. The distillers suggest enjoying it neat or with a small splash of still water to open up the aromas. It also works well in classic cocktails that call for a delicate whiskey or even a brandy.

Vieux Carré

This New Orleans classic traditionally uses both rye and Cognac. Swapping the Cognac for Coperies puts a modern French twist on the recipe, complementing the spicy rye with its fruity notes.

• 1 oz Coperies French Whiskey
• 1 oz rye whiskey
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1/4 oz Bénédictine
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 2 dashes Peychaud's bitters

1. Add all ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir until well-chilled, about 20-30 seconds.
3. Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.
4. Garnish with a lemon peel.

French Connection

A simple, two-ingredient classic that highlights the spirit's brandy-like character. It's an elegant after-dinner drink.

• 1.5 oz Coperies French Whiskey
• 1.5 oz amaretto liqueur

1. Pour both ingredients into a snifter or rocks glass.
2. Stir gently to combine. Serve neat.

Also from Bedford & Grove LLC

If you enjoy Coperies, explore more of the portfolio from Bedford & Grove LLC available in North Carolina:

• C2 Cognac & Cafe
• Cream of Kentucky Cask Strength
• Cream of Kentucky Small Batch Bourbon,
• Merlet Cognac VS
• Merlet Cognac VSOP