Citadelle Gin, known for its artisanal approach to gin-making, introduced a fresh new expression to the Singapore market—Citadelle Rouge.
The Citadelle Rouge is a special red fruit gin in the latest of Citadelle’s lineup, and celebrates the French tradition of distilling seasonal fruits. With a focus on natural flavours, this gin brings together cranberry, raspberry, blueberry, blackcurrant, and rhubarb, creating a vibrant fruit-forward taste profile.
Despite the “rouge” in its name, Citadelle Rouge is a clear spirit, distinguishing itself from the sweet and artificial pink gins often associated with fruit-flavored varieties. Instead, it relies on the natural essence of the fruits. The careful distillation of rhubarb and red berries gives it a unique balance of sweet and tart, underscoring Citadelle’s 19-botanical base with a distinctive, fruity twist.
Alexandre Gabriel, the mastermind behind Citadelle Gin, drew inspiration for this creation from his family’s tradition of making preserves. “I was inspired by the smell of berry and rhubarb jam my wife was making—it transported me back to my childhood,” Gabriel shares. His goal was to capture the natural flavors of the fruits and embody them in a clear, artisanal gin that showcases the purity of its ingredients.
When drank on its own, the gin hits the palate with a lot of berry flavours, and it is rather pleasant to sip on its own for someone who enjoys the profile of tart and sweet red fruits. When in a cocktail, the smooth, fruit-forward character of this gin mutes down a little, which makes it a perfect cocktail accompaniment.
Gin aficionados in Singapore can experience Citadelle Rouge in a variety of cocktails, including the Clover Club at ATLAS Singapore, where its rich berry flavors shine. If you prefer mixing at home, try their signature cocktail suggestions:
- Rouge & Tonic: A refreshing highball with Citadelle Rouge, yuzu tonic, and a fresh raspberry garnish.
- Rouge Collins: A zesty, fruity variation on the classic Collins, mixing Citadelle Rouge with lemon juice and soda water.
- Spritz ‘n’ Berry: A festive and bubbly combination of Citadelle Rouge, raspberry liqueur, and sparkling wine, finished with fresh mint.
Priced at S$89, Citadelle Rouge is available at The Providore, SO France, and online at EcProof.com.
