It is here in Voiron, the central town of the Pays Voironnais region, that the Chartreuse cellars reveal the secrets (or not!) of Chartreuse liqueur, the kind made by liqueur makers… with plants from the Chartreuse mountains… and crafted by Carthusian monks. Okay, in the end, we'll never know exactly what's in it… but it's all plants, and it's so good!
history, rare liqueurs and ancestral know-how
You thought you knew the Chartreuse Don't be fooled! Chartreuse cellarsWe don't just talk about the classics. Here, we immerse you in a world where Special vintages, mysterious elixirs, and monastic traditions they come together for an unforgettable experience.
After two years of ambitious work, the Chartreuse Cellars reopened in 2022.
The result? A modern spirits tourism site, where the history of Carthusian monksThe magic of plants and the art of distillation unfold before your eyes. So, shall we guide you?
An Immersion in the Heart of the Legend
Saint Bruno and the monks: the beginning of a unique adventure
In 1084, Saint Bruno* and his six companions chose to isolate themselves in the Chartreuse massif to build a hermitage, to pray and meditate. He thus founded the Carthusian religious order! Over time, he would leave his mark on the Voiron region and his legacy in the landscapes, the places, the know-how…
In 1605, a mysterious document was entrusted to the Carthusian monks, containing the recipe for an elixir of long life. This was the beginning of the Chartreuse adventure!
At Caves de la Chartreuse, they tell you this story as if you were there. And we promise you: you'll leave with stars in your eyes… and a desire to taste!
A visit that awakens all the senses
A plant-based elixir with medicinal properties or a famous liqueur with an inimitable color, Chartreuse is also the brand name for products whose recipes are closely guarded by the monks. To learn all about it (except the recipe, of course), head to the Chartreuse Cellars in Voiron, the former production site and now an exceptional museum dedicated to the Carthusian monks who were liqueur makers and herbalists. Along a path that blends history, nature, objects, and advertisements, you can see, touch, smell, and taste! And everything has been redesigned to amaze you!
01
The story
From the origins of the Elixir (1084 – 1788) to the birth of a liqueur (1789-1840), discover how the Carthusian monks transformed plants into a legendary liqueur, and founded a renowned brand (1840-1902).
02
Plants
Since its foundation, the Carthusian Order has included many apothecaries. Even before the plant elixir served as the base for liqueurs, giving them their characteristic color, extensive documentation was written on the knowledge of flora.
See, touch, smell and taste the ingredients that make up the elixirs and herbal teas.
03
The know-how
stills French oak thunderbolts, understand each step in the production of the range of famous green and yellow Chartreuse liqueurs.
Chartreuse: A range of liqueurs you absolutely must discover
Much more than the Green or the Yellow: at Caves de la Chartreuse, we don't limit ourselves to the classics! So explore the special cuvées as well.
- Chartreuse VEP: Exceptionally Long Aging, a rarity for lovers of exceptional spirits.
- Chartreuse 9° Centenaire: A special vintage to celebrate the 900th anniversary of the Carthusian order of monks.
- The Grande Chartreuse Vegetable Elixir: The ancestor of all liqueurs, still as mysterious and powerful.
- Limited editions: Special editions that surprise every time.
A word of advice: if a bottle catches your eye, the shop is there for that. And no, we won't judge you if you choose several!
THE MYSTERY NUMBER
How many secret plants (spices, flowers, barks, roots) expertly mixed and macerated make up the recipe for Green Chartreuse?
13, 30 or 130?*
Monks' Herbal Teas and Treatments: Wellness, Chartreuse Style
The Carthusian monks are not only experts in liqueurs. Their herbal teas are designed to soothe, invigorate, or aid digestion. Discover:
- Evening Angelus: A blend of linden, hawthorn and verbena, perfect for a chill moment before bed.
- The Refectory: Peppermint and fennel for light digestion.
- The Common Works: An anti-inflammatory blend for athletes or those who need a boost.
At the Chartreuse Cellars, you can even participate in workshops to learn how to prepare them yourself. An experience not to be missed!
A visit to the site and the shop in Voiron is a must.
The shop next to the Chartreuse Cellars Museum is the only place where you can buy the famous Chartreuse liqueur 147 It offers a wide selection of Chartreuse liqueurs, including limited editions and exclusive products you won't find anywhere else. In addition to the famous green and yellow liqueur, you can discover other handcrafted products and unique souvenirs to take home. As for the cocktail bar, it's dedicated to the art of flavors and blends! So, ready to taste and buy a piece of this Chartreuse tradition?
FAQ
Where are the Chartreuse Cellars located?
In Voiron, Isère. 15 minutes from Grenoble and 1 hour from Lyon.
Can we visit without a reservation?
Yes, but we advise you to book to avoid waiting, especially for the workshops.
How long does the visit last?
Allow 1 hour 30 minutes for the standard tour. A little longer if you take full advantage of the tasting !
Can we buy products on site?
Of course! The shop offers bottles, herbal teas and more.
Dare to escape just a stone's throw from Grenoble
