The contracts were signed at Vinexpo 2017 in Bordeaux by the founders and chief executives of the two companies, M. Francois-Xavier Dugas and Bernard Walsh.

The Dugas company is an established distributor of Irish and Scottish whiskeys, rums and fortified wines and Walsh Whiskey Distillery has been in business since 1999 and created Writers’ Tears in 2009.

Announcing the partnership at Vinexpo, Walsh said: “We believe Dugas is a great fit for Writers’ Tears through its exclusive network of high-end bars and retail outlets across France which is one of our priority markets worldwide. We look forward to a successful, long-term partnership with Dugas.”

Dugas added: “We have known each other for a few years. Knowing the great quality of their whiskeys, it’s an honour for us to distribute Writer Tears and build the brand on the selective market.

"We strongly think that Writer Tears should be a great success with its trendy and modern look and feel.”

Dugas describes itself as a leader in the specialist liquor stores sector - of the 5,200 liquor stores in France, 70% are customers of Dugas, which holds a market share of 65% in this segment, it claims.

The company is present in all other distribution channels: bars, restaurants, hotels, cash & carry, wholesalers and supermarkets.