Henry Preiss, president of Preiss Imports, was awarded the prized designation as Chevalier de l’Ordre du Mérite Agricole by the French Government for his consistent effort to import and promote some of the finest French spirits in the US market.

The Mérite Agricole is France’s oldest civil award. Since its creation in 1883, this prestigious award has been bestowed only to those individuals who have proven to be inspirational in their endeavor to preserve traditional French agricultural practices and values. It is a rare tribute, and Henry Preiss is among only a handful of Americans to receive the Mérite Agricole. His commitment is reflected in his work with Alain Royer and Jean-Pierre Cointreau who were key in advancing Mr. Preiss’s involvement to import and promote their refined French spirits—Château Paulet Cognac, Château du Busca Armagnac, and Pagès Védrenne liqueurs.

“Félicitations to Henry Preiss on this great honor from the French authorities. Henry has work tirelessly to import our French spirits, and has developed an expertise in promoting distinguished small batch French spirits throughout the United States. Job well done!”
- Jean Pierre Cointreau