Citadelle Vive le Cornichon

Citadelle Vive le Cornichon is a limited edition gin created by Maison Ferrand in Cognac, as part of Citadelle’s experimental series that explores unexpected botanical profiles. The base of this expression is Citadelle’s well-known gin, produced from a neutral French spirit and redistilled in small charentais copper pot stills. It incorporates the classic Citadelle botanical structure built around juniper, coriander, angelica, citrus peels and a wide range of spices and herbs. For this special version, cornichons, traditionally made from small gherkins preserved in vinegar and spices, are introduced to add a distinctive savory and tangy dimension to the aromatic profile.

On the nose, herbal and spicy notes dominate first, with pronounced juniper, aniseed, and warm spice from cinnamon, nutmeg and cubeb. These are followed by a sharp, slightly briny impression brought by the cornichon, alongside touches of lemon peel, licorice and subtle floral nuances from violet and iris. The palate is bold and structured, combining the bright freshness of citrus and fennel with earthy and peppery accents from cumin, savory and Sichuan pepper. The presence of the cornichon gives a lightly acidic, saline edge that recalls brine and pickled vegetables without overpowering the gin’s core botanical identity. The texture is dry, slightly oily, and mouth-coating, with a long, persistent finish marked by spice, herbs and a faintly vinegary, savory echo.

Citadelle Vive le Cornichon is designed primarily for experimental and savory-driven cocktails. It works particularly well in a Dirty Martini, enhancing the briny character traditionally provided by olive brine, and as a base for unconventional gin and tonic serves with herbal or vegetal garnishes. Its profile also allows creative pairings with savory elements in mixology, while still remaining anchored in the structure of a classic distilled gin. This release reflects Maison Ferrand’s intent to challenge traditional aromatic boundaries while showcasing technical mastery in botanical distillation.