As the crisp fall air starts to settle in, there’s no better time to plan a getaway that combines cultural immersion with a touch of luxury. The Charente region in France, known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant heritage, offers just the escape you need. Citadelle Gin at the Château de Bonbonnet in Ars—is a new destination that promises a unique experience for both gin enthusiasts and travelers seeking an authentic taste of French craftsmanship.
The Citadelle Gin Location
The Citadelle Gin Distillery, housed in an 18th-century stone building, is steeped in history and tradition. The château itself has seen various transformations, from a distillery in the 19th century to a stable and aging cellar. Today, under the meticulous vision of owner and Master Blender Alexandre Gabriel, the distillery has been reborn as a state-of-the-art facility that honors the architectural heritage of the Charente region while pushing the boundaries of gin production.
The distillery is located just a 15-minute drive from downtown Cognac and is easily accessible from Paris and Bordeaux by a scenic three-hour train ride. Upon arrival, visitors are greeted by the grandeur of the château, which exudes the essence of savoir-vivre à la Française. The grounds surrounding the château are home to juniper fields and an Orangerie bursting with citrus—key ingredients in Citadelle Gin. These botanicals are cultivated on-site, ensuring that every bottle of Citadelle Gin is infused with the rich terroir of the region.
The Citadelle Gin Experience
A visit to the Citadelle Gin Distillery is more than just a tour—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of gin-making. The experience begins with a stroll through the juniper fields and Orangerie, where guests can learn about the progressive infusion method that Citadelle pioneered. This innovative technique, which has earned Citadelle a patent, carefully adapts the maceration time and alcohol level for each of the 19 botanicals used in their gin, ensuring the perfect aromatic balance.
As you move into the distillery itself, you’ll be captivated by the sight of the impressive cathedral-roofed space, where nine stills, each with a unique history, work their magic. These stills, previously used for cognac production, now serve as the heart of Citadelle Gin, creating a true “cathedral” of gin that is both a marvel of engineering and a testament to the artistry of distillation.
The tour culminates at the Spice Bar, where guests are invited to taste the Citadelle Gin range, including the Original, Rouge, Jardin d’été, and the distillery’s exclusive release, Citadelle Gin Thé French. This tea-inspired gin, available only at the distillery, features a harmonious blend of floral and nutty green tea, jasmine flower buds, and zesty bergamot oranges, offering a tasting experience that is both refreshing and complex.
After the tour, visitors can explore the Distillery Boutique, where they can purchase Citadelle merchandise, enjoy a picnic amid the juniper fields, or savor a creative cocktail at the Spice Bar. For those who want to take a piece of Citadelle home, the boutique offers the opportunity to refill bottles at the Citadelle Gin Fountain—a nod to sustainability and local tradition.
As the days grow shorter and the weather cools, the Citadelle Gin Visitor’s Center offers a warm, inviting escape where you can indulge in the rich flavors of France and experience the craftsmanship behind one of the world’s premier gins. Whether you’re a gin aficionado or simply looking for a unique travel experience, a visit to this charming distillery in the heart of the Charente region is the perfect way to keep the warmth of summer alive just a little longer.
Or plan a trip to the Champagne region of France!