Whisky, Sichuan cuisine, lacquerware and pandas: Discovering Chengdu's artisanal side

Nestled at the foot of Mount Emei, one of China's sacred Buddhist mountains, The Chuan Malt Whisky Distillery offers a new perspective on Sichuan's rich cultural tapestry. Established by global spirits giant Pernod Ricard, this is China's first fully operational malt whisky distillery founded by an international group.

The distillery's architecture, designed by Neri&Hu, draws inspiration from the Chinese concept of "shan shui," or mountain-water landscapes. Its design harmoniously blends with the surrounding terraced fields and creek, featuring long buildings with reclaimed clay tiles atop modern concrete structures. Contemporary sculptures by Zhan Wang further enhance the contemplative atmosphere, setting a serene tone before visitors even enter.

Inside, the experience is a sensory journey guided by brand ambassador Allen Zou. Visitors explore the whisky-making process, from the water sourced from Mount Emei to the barley cultivation, both Chinese and European varieties. The distillery's guiding philosophy, "Flavour over yield is our unwavering principle of craftsmanship," is evident throughout the malting, mashing, fermentation, distillation, and maturation stages.

Maturation is where The Chuan aims to forge a unique Chinese whisky identity. At an outdoor salon, guests can feel the different woods used for casks, learning how each imparts a distinct character to the spirit. This focus on craftsmanship and local influence positions The Chuan as a significant development in China's burgeoning spirits industry.

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Flavour over yield is our unwavering principle of craftsmanship.