Citadelle Gin comes from a place you wouldn't necessarily associate with gin — the Cognac region of southwestern France, where Maison Ferrand has been producing brandy since the 17th century. But gin and Cognac share more DNA than you might think: both rely on copper pot distillation and careful botanical selection, and the team at Château de Bonbonnet brings a brandy-maker's obsessive attention to detail to their gin production.
What makes Citadelle distinctive is its process. Where most modern gins are distilled using steam-heated stills (more efficient, easier to control), Citadelle uses a naked flame under its copper pot still — the same method used for Cognac production. It's slower, less predictable, and gives the distiller less margin for error, but proponents argue it produces a rounder, more complex spirit.
The Botanical Bill
Nineteen botanicals is a lot. At that count, there's a real risk of cacophony — too many voices competing for attention. But Citadelle manages the ensemble with impressive discipline. The botanicals are divided into groups and added to the still at different stages of the distillation process, allowing each group its moment to shine without overwhelming the others.
On the Nose
The nose is immediately engaging — bright and citrusy, with lemon and orange peel leading, followed by a warm, almost exotic spice blend that includes star anise, nutmeg, and cinnamon. There's a subtle floral quality too, possibly from the violet and savory in the botanical bill, that adds sophistication. Juniper is present but plays a supporting role rather than a starring one, which places Citadelle firmly in New Western territory.
On the Palate
Soft, round, and immediately appealing. The flame distillation seems to lend a richness of texture that you don't always find in modern gins — there's a warmth and weight to the spirit that feels almost Cognac-like. Citrus dominates the early palate, transitioning smoothly into that complex spice melange, with anise and cumin adding savoury depth and cinnamon providing gentle warmth.
The juniper reveals itself more on the palate than on the nose, providing a piney backbone that holds everything together. It's never dominant, but it's always there — the structural support that keeps 19 botanicals from falling into chaos.
The Finish
Medium length, warm and spicy, with a clean, dry conclusion. Star anise lingers pleasantly, along with a subtle peppery note that adds interest.
In the Glass
Citadelle is a supremely versatile mixing gin. Its complexity means it brings something interesting to virtually any cocktail, while its balance means it never overwhelms the other ingredients. In a French 75 — the obvious serve — it's magnificent, the gin's citrus and spice notes playing beautifully against champagne and lemon juice. In a Negroni, its warmth and roundness stand up to Campari without competing. And in a simple G&T, it produces a drink of remarkable sophistication.
The Bottom Line
Citadelle is one of those gins that quietly does everything well. It's not the most exciting bottle on the shelf — it doesn't have an outrageous botanical or a gimmicky bottle — but the liquid inside is genuinely excellent. The flame distillation and 19-botanical recipe produce a gin of unusual depth and warmth, and the price point makes it one of the best-value premium gins available.
If you haven't tried Citadelle, you're missing one of the most accomplished gins in production. Highly recommended.
