A History of Michel Couvreur
Michel Couvreur has been producing exquisite whiskeys since 1990. Their whiskeys are developed with the idea that 90% of the quality of a whiskey is derived from the barrel, and only 10% comes as a result of the distillation process. So, ex-sherry and port casks are carefully selected and used to mature their whiskeys. What makes Michel Couvreur truly remarkable is that all their whiskeys are left to mature in the Bouze-les-Beaune cellars located 150 meters underground in Burgundy, France.
Unfortunately, Michel Couvreur passed away in 2013, aged 85. His legendary work continues to thrive thanks to his son-in-law, cellar-master Jean-Arnaud Frantzan, his wife and his daughter.
To this day, Michel Couvreur Whisky proudly operates in alignment with its founding principle - Virtute et Opera, which translates to “courage and toil”.
The Delicate Selection of Barrels
Michel Couvreur Whisky delivers spectacular products because of the detail that goes into selecting their barrels. Cellar-master Jean-Arnaud Frantzan insists on collecting only the best barrels from all over Europe to maintain exceptional quality.
Selecting the right quality of barrel is an art form, perfected over many years. It‘s important to know what was previously in the barrel and for how long the barrel held port, sherry or wine. The main goal is to find a barrel that has strong flavours that have permeated into the barrel so they infuse with the whisky as it matures.
It takes up to 10-15 years for the whisky to be infused with the flavours contained in the middle of the wood planks.
The Cellaring Process Deep Underground
Much of the Michel Couvreur magic can be attributed to its unique cellaring process. Situated between Andalucia and Scotland, 150 metres underground, a series of man-made caves are used to mature the whisky. The rarest whiskeys are stored in a section known as “the paradise”, which is isolated from all sound and natural light. This method delivers a whisky with a strong intensity and a warm full-bodied texture.
Your Guide to Michel Couvreur Whisky
Overaged (12 years)
Seeing as it takes 10-15 years for all the flavours of the old barrels to infuse with the whisky, it only makes sense that the Overaged is the flagship whisky in the Michel Couvreur range. It won the prestigious award for ‘Best European Whisky’ at the 2013 International Whisky Competition. A rich, golden amber whisky that delivers an assortment of smoky aromas. The Overaged is comprised of 54 different malts and has an ABV of 43%.
Couvreur Intravaganza
A noble whisky that is aged in ex-sherry casks. A robust, golden amber spirit that is bottled at an alcohol strength of 50%. Strong aromas of frangipane and almonds can be found along with soft scents of honey.
Candid
A delicate mix of floral aromas combined with soft almond notes. The Candid delivers a robust tasting experience with a hint of liquorice that leaves a spicy aftertaste.
The Very Sherried Over 27
A thick, plum-tasting whisky that delivers remarkable taste. An intense bottle that also emits soft hints of almond and vanilla, this is a very rare bottle of whisky that comes with a heavy price tag. Bottled in Scotland in 1984.
Find your perfect bottle of Michel Couvreur whisky in our online bottleshop.
