CHARTREUSE JAUNE TARRAGONE 1912-1913 | EXPORT - 1 LITER

The Chartreuse Jaune Tarragone 1912-1913 represents a truly exceptional chapter in the storied history of one of the most enigmatic and revered spirits in the world. This rare edition not only encapsulates a rich historical palate but also marks a significant era in the production of Chartreuse. Bottled at a generous 1 liter, it's a significant find for collectors and connoisseurs alike.

Distilled during the years 1912 to 1913 in Tarragona, Spain, this vintage is particularly noteworthy. During the early 20th century, due to stringent laws and anticlerical sentiment in France, the Carthusian monks—who have been crafting Chartreuse since 1737—relocated their distillation operations to Spain. This geographical shift did not just represent a change in location; it brought subtle nuances to the flavor and character of the liqueur, influenced by the climatic differences and local ingredients. Hence, bottles from this period are a rare encapsulation of Chartreuse's history, affected by its environment and times.

The Chartreuse Jaune, or Yellow Chartreuse as it is more commonly known outside of France, is milder in flavor compared to its green counterpart. It is crafted using a different selection of the 130 herbs and plants that are macerated and steeped in alcohol. Yellow Chartreuse typically features a sweeter taste and a lower alcohol content of 40% ABV, making it slightly more approachable than the potent Green Chartreuse with its 55% ABV.

The 1912-1913 Tarragone version offers a unique glimpse into the method of production during a tumultuous period for the Carthusian monks. Its packaging, maintaining the traditional Chartreuse design, speaks volumes of the monks' dedication to their craft, despite the upheaval of relocation. As an official bottling, this edition ensures authentication and maintains the highest production standards set by the monks themselves. This sought-after bottle not only promises rarity but also the unparalleled craft of an official distillation, unfettered by the passage of over a century.

Regarding the bottler, it is critical to emphasize that the official bottler for Chartreuse is the Order of the Carthusian monks themselves, making each bottle directly traceable to their expert hands. Their proprietary methods, passed down in secrecy within the monastery’s walls, contribute to the mystique and allure of Chartreuse. Each bottle from this period is not only a spirit but a historical artifact, representing a time of survival and adaptation.

Chartreuse remains one of the few spirits to be produced directly by the monks today, from the selection of herbs to the final distillation and bottling process. This level of craft and dedication ensures that each bottle is a reflection of the order's rich heritage and unyielding commitment to quality. The production in Tarragona is particularly notable, as it was carried out under the specific conditions not replicated elsewhere, making any surviving bottles from this era highly coveted.

The Chartreuse Jaune Tarragone 1912-1913 | Export - 1 Liter is a testament to the resilience and unchanging tradition of the Carthusian monks. For collectors, historians, and aficionados of fine spirits, acquiring such a bottle offers not just a sublime tasting experience but a piece of monastic history. Each sip is a journey through time, flavored by the hands of monks who sought refuge but never compromised on their sacred craft. This Chartreuse is not merely a beverage; it is a storied, historical elixir - a rare treasure that speaks of the past while offering an unparalleled tasting experience.