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With our Distillery Exclusive editions, we like to take the time to tell the story of Bonbonnet in a different way. These ultra-limited creations are conceived as snapshots of our surroundings: the aromatic herbs, fruits, citrus, and botanicals around us all become sources of inspiration. They reflect our approach as growers and experimenters: observe, cultivate, try, then distil. Each edition is a way to share a little of Bonbonnet's spirit through a rare gin, available in very limited quantities.

A finger lime grown entirely at the Orangery of Château de Bonbonnet

Why did we create an Orangerie within our beloved Château de Bonbonnet, near Cognac? Because citrus has been a key part of Citadelle Gin's identity since its creation in 1996. That's why Alexandre Gabriel wanted to deepen his knowledge of this fascinating raw material while moving toward greater self-sufficiency.

Among the lemon trees, orange trees, and yuzu of our Orangerie, you'll also find the finger lime. In this place, a constant source of inspiration, the idea of including this citrus in a limited edition of our Citadelle Gin came about naturally. How could we resist, knowing that our finger lime variety goes by the sweet name "bonbon" for its outstanding flavor quality and gentle aromatics?

During your visit to Bonbonnet, you'll be able to see the trees that produce our finger limes. From the outside, the finger lime looks like a small elongated fruit with pinkish-green skin and rounded ends. But it's on the inside that it reveals what makes it special: tiny, juicy pearls resembling caviar, with shades ranging from pale pink to deep pink.

Prized in fine dining for its pearl-like texture and bright aromatics, finger lime adds a final touch to the most delicate dishes. Nicolas Bottero, a Michelin-starred chef in Provence, uses it as a finishing element to bring freshness and aromatic precision.

Citadelle Citron Caviar, a showcase of Maison Ferrand's expertise

The delicate nature of finger lime comes with a certain fragility. That's why, after many trials, our team concluded that the best way to preserve the aromatic finesse of this citrus was to use a rotary vacuum evaporator, or rotavap.

"Finger lime develops a very citrus-forward profile, closer to lime than to lemon, with beautiful floral notes that evoke white flowers, almost orange blossom. Its peppery character is also essential, supported by a herbaceous dimension reminiscent of lemongrass and verbena. You get a clean acidity, then a very slight bitterness on the finish that beautifully extends the aromatics." - Fannie, Assistant Cellar Master, Maison Ferrand

For this step, the fruit is used whole: it's first cut in half, then macerated before being distilled in the rotavap. This way, all the organoleptic qualities of the ingredient are preserved.

In addition to finger lime, this Distillery Exclusive limited edition of Citadelle Gin also features verbena. Sourced from a local producer, the verbena is first dried, then macerated. Each of the two exclusive ingredients in Citadelle Citron Caviar is then carefully blended with our Citadelle Gin Original, itself produced through the progressive distillation of 19 botanicals.

"Finger lime and verbena work in true synergy: they share certain aromatic molecules, which makes them especially compatible. The softness of verbena balances the clean acidity and slight bitterness of finger lime, while also strengthening the overall aromatic intensity. The result is a well-rounded bouquet that's fresh, precise, and harmonious." - Fannie, Assistant Cellar Master, Maison Ferrand

As a reminder, this method, invented by our founder and master distiller Alexandre Gabriel, involves adjusting the maceration time and alcohol strength for each ingredient, especially the juniper berries. Thanks to this technique, one of the few patents in the world of gin, it's possible to draw out the aromatic characteristics of each element to their fullest.

An ultra-limited edition to discover at the distillery or on our Barge 166

On the palate, Citadelle Citron Caviar reveals a clean freshness, carried by the soft and lightly zesty notes of finger lime. Verbena then extends that sense of freshness in the mouth, with a long aromatic finish and a subtle spicy touch at the end.

"Citadelle Citron Caviar reflects our commitment to innovation and authenticity. It's a one-of-a-kind experience we offer to those who come visit us." - Alexandre Gabriel, master distiller and founder of Citadelle Gin

To discover this new Distillery Exclusive edition, ultra-limited to 1996 bottles (a nod to Citadelle Gin's birth year, 1996), come visit us at the Citadelle distillery at Château de Bonbonnet or on our charming Barge 166 near Paris. We can't wait to welcome you!