Overview: Maison Ferrand-owned brand Citadelle has introduced a limited edition Barbadian gin known as Citadelle Bajan. Distilled at Stade’s West Indies Rum Distillery, this spirit is part of the experimental Les Excentriques collection. The release marks a collaboration between the French house and the Caribbean location to celebrate local heritage.
The Full Story
Alexandre Gabriel, Maison Ferrand owner and master blender, stated that Citadelle never stops exploring. He described Bajan as what happens when passion for gin meets the heartbeat of Barbados. The distillery in Barbados is home to Maison Ferrand’s rum brand, Planteray.
The new gin is a vibrant tribute to the birthplace of rum that captures Barbados warmth, heritage, and pride in every sip. Citadelle Bajan is made with molasses, grapefruit, hibiscus, bay leaves, and lemongrass. The release bagged a Gold medal at The Gin Masters 2026 – First Tasting.
Production & Profile
Citadelle Bajan is distilled from molasses using century-old pot stills. The infusion process utilizes grapefruit, which was first cultivated in Barbados in the 18th century. Hibiscus, known locally as sorrel, provides floral brightness and a tart, berry-like lift.
Other botanicals include bay leaves and lemongrass, which is used in local cooking and traditional remedies and gathered from nearby trees and gardens. The gin is bottled at 41.4% ABV and will retail for €38 (US$43).
Brand & Industry History
Citadelle recently released its first non-alcoholic expression, which was inspired by perfumery techniques. The brand operates under Maison Ferrand ownership and utilizes the Stade’s West Indies Rum Distillery for production. This facility is also home to the Planteray rum brand.
What This Means
Citadelle Bajan launched in limited quantities first in Barbados, and will soon be available in select European markets and the UK. Availability also extends to Maison Ferrand’s homes: the Citadelle Gin Distillery, the Barge 166 floating cellar in Paris, and Stade’s West Indies Rum Distillery in Barbados. This expansion highlights the brand’s commitment to exploring new territories while maintaining a connection to its Caribbean roots.
Consumer Takeaway
The bottle offers a unique profile defined by molasses distillation and local botanicals like sorrel and lemongrass. The release captures Barbados warmth, heritage, and pride at 41.4% ABV. Purchase options exist in Barbados, select European markets, the UK, and specific Maison Ferrand locations.
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