Country of origin France Alcohol by volume 44.0% | Manufacturer Maison Ferrand Introduced 1998 in United States Proof (US) 88 | |
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Citadelle Gin is a French brand of Gin that was first released in the late 80s. It is produced by Maison Ferrand in Cognac, France. It is named after the only Royal Distillery in the 18th century that was built in Dunkirk, France. It is packaged in a decorated bottle that notes each of the 19 botanicals used in its production. Its primary market is Spain.
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History
In September 5, 1775 received a royal grant to produce genièvre at the Citadel of Dunkirk. This news was not well accepted by the Trade Chamber fearing that it could jeopardize the trade of Brandies in France. Therefore, Carpeau and Stival were not allowed to sell their products within France.
In 1778, When France decided to enter the Independence war of the USA, the trading relations with the UK were stopped. Therefore, in 1780, Sir Dubois-Martin, Carpeau and Stirval Lawyer, advocated for the permission to sell Genever within the French Territory.
In the late 1980s, Alexandre Gabriel, Founder of La Maison Ferrand, wanted to use the Cognac pot still during the offseason when they legally couldn’t distill Cognac.
Distillation
Citadelle Gin is made using an open flame Pot Still distillation. Using a traditional Charentaise pot still used in Cognac France. Distillation over an open flame allows the complementary aromas to come together when the wine comes into contact with the bottom of the boiler.
Citadelle Reserve
Citadelle Gin Reserve is aged in Cognac casks, which minimizes the citrus flavor.
Awards
Citadelle has performed very well at international spirit ratings competitions, including at the San Francisco World Spiritis Competition, the Beverage Testing Institute, and Wine Enthusiast. Proof66 rates Citadelle amongst the Top 20 gins in the world.
Citadelle Gin won the double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World and Spirits Competition.
Reviewers have noted that it is a mid-pungency gin, with a more complex and assertive taste than London dry gin.