Visit Citadelle Gin Distillery

Exciting Tour of France’s First Artisanal Gin at Citadelle Distillery

The Citadelle Gin distillery offers a captivating 1.5-hour experience in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France for just $18 per person. This exclusive visit takes you behind the scenes of the first French craft gin, renowned for its quality and awarded by top spirits competitions. The tour begins at the Château de Bonbonnet, an impressive setting that emphasizes the tradition and craftsmanship behind Citadelle Gin.

This tour is ideal for spirits enthusiasts, curious travelers, or anyone interested in artisanal production methods. It combines scenic views of juniper fields, an in-depth look at the distillation process, and tastings of four distinct gins. While the experience is rich in detail, it is also accessible for under 18s, who can enjoy all the visual and educational aspects without the tasting.

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Key Points

• Price: $18 per person, covering an informative 1.5-hour experience
• Location: Château de Bonbonnet in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, France
• Highlights: Tour of the first French artisanal gin and cathedral distillery
• Tastings: Sample 4 different gins—Original, Jardin dété, Rouge, and Cornichon
• Accessibility: Tour is wheelchair friendly and free for under 18s
• Language options: Tour guides operate in English, French, and Spanish

Discovering Citadelle Gin’s Heritage and Production in Château de Bonbonnet

The Citadelle Gin distillery is a world-renowned producer with over 25 years of craftsmanship. The tour provides a firsthand look at the patented infusion process that makes Citadelle unique, showcasing meticulous control over every step—from juniper cultivation in front of the castle to the orangery with citrus and aromatic plants.

The visit emphasizes the creation of France’s first artisanal gin, highlighting the cathedral distillery architecture and Charente stills, which make the production process visually impressive. Visitors learn about maceration techniques and the aging process of gin, gaining a clear picture of what sets Citadelle apart from mass-produced spirits.

Starting Point at Société Protectrice des Animaux de Cognac

The tour departs from the Société Protectrice des Animaux de Cognac S.P.A., which visitors can easily recognize by the guide in a sailor top. The meeting point is straightforward, located near the Château de Bonbonnet, ensuring smooth access for all participants. The group size is manageable, allowing for a more personal experience.

Inside the Cathedral-Style Distillery and Charente Still Demonstrations

During the guided tour, you’ll explore the cathedral-style distillery, notable for its grandeur and design. The Charente stills are a central feature, illustrating the traditional craftsmanship involved in gin production. The guide explains the maceration technique in detail, offering insights into how botanicals are infused into the spirit.

This part of the visit allows for close-up views of the distillation setup, making it clear why Citadelle Gin has earned international recognition. The aesthetic appeal of the distillery’s architecture adds to the overall experience, making it as visually engaging as it is educational.

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Tasting Session Featuring Four Unique Gins

The highlight of the tour is the tasting of four distinct gins: Original, Jardin dété, Rouge, and Cornichon. Each offers a different flavor profile, with some designed to be enjoyed neat and others ideal for mixing with tonic.

Visitors find the selection of gins to be well-curated, showcasing Citadelle’s versatility and creativity. The tastings are led by knowledgeable guides who guide you through the flavor nuances of each gin, helping to deepen appreciation for this French craft spirit. These tastings are free for under 18s, making the tour accessible for families or groups with diverse ages.

Scenic Views and the Summer Garden

The tour includes time to stroll through the Summer Garden, an inviting outdoor space that complements the scenic views of the juniper fields. This area provides a perfect backdrop for photo opportunities and offers a relaxed environment where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of Château de Bonbonnet.

The garden’s layout enhances the overall experience, emphasizing the connection between botanical ingredients and the final gin product. Visitors often appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to capture memorable photos.

Accessibility and Flexibility of the Tour

This 1.5-hour experience is designed to suit a variety of visitors, including those with wheelchair accessibility. The tour is conducted in multiple languages—English, French, and Spanish—to accommodate international guests.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. This reservation system allows for full flexibility, especially useful if travel plans change unexpectedly.

Why Citadelle Gin Tour Stands Out

The focus on the control of every production step—from field to bottle—is a key strength of this tour. Visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of what makes Citadelle Gin the first French artisanal gin, including a detailed explanation of the infusion process and aging techniques.

The affordable price of $18 and the informative content make it a compelling choice for those interested in craft spirits. The positive reviews consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, the quality of the tastings, and the charming setting of Château de Bonbonnet.

Summary of Best Aspects and Considerations

The tour’s highlights include the exclusive access to the cathedral distillery, the tasting of four distinct gins, and the scenic surroundings of the Summer Garden. The guides’ expertise and friendly approach shine through in reviews, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

A notable advantage is the free for under 18s policy, making this tour suitable for families. The 1.5-hour duration offers a thorough overview without feeling rushed, and the $18 price provides good value for the depth of information and experience.

Potential visitors should note that while the distillery visit is indoors and scenic, it may require some walking and standing. Accessibility is considered, but those with specific needs are encouraged to confirm details beforehand.

Citadelle Gin Distillery Tour: A Must-Do for Spirit Enthusiasts

This tour at Château de Bonbonnet stands out as a captivating dive into French craft gin production. The combination of scenic views, detailed explanations, and tasting sessions makes it an engaging experience. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind Citadelle Gin and a few bottles to take home—a bonus noted in reviews.

The affordable price point and positive ratings reinforce its value, making it a top choice for those exploring the Cognac region or seeking a unique taste of France’s artisanal spirits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, the tour is free for those under 18, and children can enjoy the sights and explanations, but they won’t partake in the tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, including the distillery visit, explanations, and tastings.

What languages are available for the tour?
Guides operate in English, French, and Spanish.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the distillery and garden are wheelchair accessible.

Where does the tour start?
The meeting point is at the Société Protectrice des Animaux de Cognac S.P.A., near the Château de Bonbonnet.

What can I expect to see during the visit?
You’ll explore the cathedral distillery, see Charente stills, learn about maceration techniques, and enjoy scenic views of the garden and fields.

What gin varieties are tasted?
The four gins are Original, Jardin dété, Rouge, and Cornichon.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

Is there any food included?
No, the experience focuses on distillery insights and gin tastings; no food is provided.

What makes this tour stand apart from others?
Its focus on France’s first artisanal gin, the cathedral distillery architecture, and the expertise of guides contribute to a distinctive and memorable experience.

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