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Distillerie Claeyssens de Wambrechies

4.6
·52 reviews·Wambrechies, France

Discover centuries of spirit-making at Distillerie Claeyssens, a historic monument producing Genièvre, gin, and whisky.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Summer Weekends

Ephemeral bar offers drinks

CrowdMedium
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Distillerie Claeyssens de Wambrechies - Fine glass with water in dark background

Distillerie Claeyssens de Wambrechies

Best Time

Summer Weekends

Ephemeral bar offers drinks

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Discover centuries of spirit-making at Distillerie Claeyssens, a historic monument producing Genièvre, gin, and whisky.

4.6
(52 reviews)

"A bit out of the way but great local visit of a traditional craft."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Check Tour Availability

Tours may be limited due to ongoing renovation projects. Always check the official website before visiting.

🍹 Taste Before You Buy

The shop offers tastings, allowing you to discover new flavors before purchasing your favorite spirits.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Alambic

Historic Alambic

Distillery Hall

See the magnificent 3-column alembic, a historic monument and testament to centuries-old spirit-making.

Ephemeral Summer Bar

Ephemeral Summer Bar

Distillery Courtyard

Enjoy local spirits, cocktails, and light bites in a unique, historic setting during the summer months.

The Distillery Shop

The Distillery Shop

Vaulted Shop

Explore a divine selection of beers, whiskey, gin, and liqueurs, with tasting opportunities available.

Blue Doors

Blue Doors

Exterior Facade

Admire the striking blue doors, a charming and photogenic detail of this historic monument.

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Planning Your Visit

Plan Your Visit to Distillerie Claeyssens

Discover the historic Distillerie Claeyssens de Wambrechies, a gem producing traditional spirits. Check their website for current tour availability and opening hours, as renovations may affect access. Consider visiting during their summer ephemeral bar for a unique tasting experience.

Getting to the Distillery

Distillerie Claeyssens is a bit off the beaten path, so plan your transportation. While public transport might be limited, consider driving or using ride-sharing services. If arriving by car, be aware of potential delivery vehicle access routes.

Best Times

When
Summer Weekends
Why
Ephemeral bar offers drinks
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays (check hours)
Why
Potentially fewer crowds for tours
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Bar éphémère à la distillerie ! 🍸 Ouvrez vos agendas et préparez-vous à vivre une expérience estivale inoubliable ! Nous sommes ravis de vous annoncer l'ouverture d'un bar éphémère à la distillerie de Wambrechies, du vendredi au dimanche, de 15h à 22h, tout au long de l'été ! 🎉🥳 📍 Un lieu historique, une ambiance conviviale : Niché dans la cour intérieure de la distillerie, à côté de la boutiq...
distilleriedewambrechies
48 likes • 0 views

🎯 Check Tour Availability

Tours may be limited due to ongoing renovation projects. Always check the official website before visiting. Reddit

🍹 Taste Before You Buy

The shop offers tastings, allowing you to discover new flavors before purchasing your favorite spirits. Reddit

Le bar Éphémère de la distillerie de Wambrechies est de retour pour une deuxième année ! 🍸 Nous sommes ravis de vous annoncer le retour tant attendu de notre bar éphémère à la distillerie de Wambrechies, dès le samedi 22 juin ! Durant tout l’été, du vendredi au dimanche, venez profiter d’un cadre unique et chargé d’histoire pour vivre une expérience estivale exceptionnelle autour d’un verre. Que...
distilleriedewambrechies
42 likes • 2.8K views
Classée monument historique, la distillerie de Wambrechies produit toujours un alcool de Genièvre mais aussi du gin et du whisky. Le lieu est insolite et j'ai forcément craqué pour ses portes bleues ! Des travaux sont en cours pour transformer les bâtiments en musée, logements, espace de coworking... Ça va être chouette ! Vous connaissez déjà cette distillerie de la banlieue lilloise ? #hautsd...
_doowin_
39 likes • 0 views

📸 Admire the Blue Doors

Don't miss the iconic blue doors – a perfect spot for a memorable photo! Instagram

☀️ Enjoy the Summer Bar

Experience the unique ephemeral bar for cocktails and local spirits during the summer months. Instagram+1

Le bar éphémère de la distillerie ! 🍸 Venez découvrir le bar éphémère à la distillerie du vendredi au dimanche de 15h à 22h tout l’été ! Vous pourrez déguster les produits de la distillerie en apéritif comme en cocktails. Des bières, du vin, des softs et de la petite restauration vous seront aussi proposés. L’occasion de passer un moment de dégustation dans un lieu unique, emblème de la product...
distilleriedewambrechies
36 likes • 1.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Check Tour Availability

Tours may be limited due to ongoing renovation projects. Always check the official website before visiting. Reddit

🍹 Taste Before You Buy

The shop offers tastings, allowing you to discover new flavors before purchasing your favorite spirits. Reddit

📸 Admire the Blue Doors

Don't miss the iconic blue doors – a perfect spot for a memorable photo! Instagram

☀️ Enjoy the Summer Bar

Experience the unique ephemeral bar for cocktails and local spirits during the summer months. Instagram+1

🚗 Plan Your Transport

The distillery is a bit out of the way; consider driving or ride-sharing. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(52 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Distillerie Claeyssens for its authentic local craft and informative tours, with many enjoying the tasting opportunities and unique spirits. The historic buildings and charming shop are frequently highlighted as positives. Some note it's a bit out of the way, and ongoing renovations can sometimes affect accessibility.

"A bit out of the way but great local visit of a traditional craft. The tour was informative and you get to try quite a few drinks and the end."

Chris Torres

"In works but incredible choice"

A

"Magnificent old buildings, those of the original distillery, and divine bottles in the beautiful vaulted shop. Unfortunately no visits at the moment because of a major project to transform the place which I hope will keep its beautiful soul."

barbara Lilin

What People Like

Informative tours
Tasting opportunities
Historic buildings

What People Dislike

Slightly out of the way
Renovation impacts

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The distillery is located in Wambrechies. It's a bit out of the way, so driving or using ride-sharing services is recommended. Public transport options may be limited. Reddit

Information on dedicated visitor parking is not widely available. If driving, be mindful of potential delivery vehicle access routes. Reddit

Public transport options to reach the distillery might be infrequent or limited. It's best to check local bus or train schedules in advance or opt for a car. Reddit

Wambrechies is accessible by road. If coming from a larger city like Lille, driving is often the most convenient method. Reddit

While the distillery itself might not have lodging, the surrounding areas, particularly Lille, offer a range of hotels and guesthouses. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

It's highly recommended to check the distillery's official website for the most up-to-date information on tours and booking requirements, as access can be affected by renovation projects. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, especially due to ongoing renovations. Always consult the official website for current operating times and any special event schedules. Reddit

Historically, guided tours have been offered, providing insights into the traditional craft. However, availability may be impacted by renovation work. Check their website for current tour status. Reddit+1

Entry to the shop is generally free, allowing visitors to browse and taste products. However, specific tour or event access might require a ticket. Reddit

Renovations may affect visitor access. It's crucial to check the distillery's official communication channels for the latest updates on what areas are accessible. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

You can explore the historic buildings, admire the traditional alembic, visit the shop for tastings and purchases, and enjoy the ephemeral summer bar. InstagramReddit+1

Yes, the distillery's historic buildings and its unique 3-column alembic are classified as historical monuments. Instagram+1

They are known for their traditional Genièvre (gin), but also produce gin, whisky, and a unique Beer Eau de Vie. Instagram+1

Absolutely! The shop offers tastings, allowing you to sample their range of spirits before making a purchase. Reddit

During the summer, an ephemeral bar opens, offering a chance to enjoy the distillery's products in cocktails and as aperitifs in a unique setting. Instagram+2

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The ephemeral summer bar often offers small bites and light refreshments alongside drinks. Check their schedule for specific offerings. Instagram

The distillery primarily focuses on spirit production and tasting. Full meal services are not typically offered, though light snacks may be available at the summer bar. Instagram

Wambrechies and the surrounding areas offer various local restaurants and brasseries. It's advisable to check local listings for dining options. Reddit

You can taste their signature Genièvre, gin, whisky, Beer Eau de Vie, as well as beers and wines available in the shop or at the summer bar. Instagram+1

No, the ephemeral bar is typically a seasonal offering, usually open during the summer months from Friday to Sunday. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic spots include the striking blue doors, the historic buildings, the impressive alembic, and the charming atmosphere of the shop and summer bar. Instagram

Generally, photography is permitted for personal use, especially in public areas like the shop and courtyard. Always be respectful of ongoing work or private areas. Instagram

Yes, the beautifully designed bottles and the spirits themselves make for great photographic subjects. Reddit

Specific regulations regarding drone usage would apply. It's best to check with the distillery management or local authorities before flying a drone. Reddit

Golden hour light can enhance the historic architecture. Midday can be bright, but the blue doors offer good contrast in most lighting. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Distillerie Claeyssens is primarily focused on spirits, families can still find elements of interest. The historic buildings and the impressive alembic can spark curiosity in younger visitors about old machinery and traditional crafts. The shop, with its unique bottles, might also be visually engaging. Instagram

Consider visiting during the summer when the ephemeral bar is open, as the outdoor setting can be more relaxed. While direct engagement with the spirits is for adults, the overall atmosphere of a historic site can be an educational outing. It's advisable to check if any specific family-friendly events are scheduled, especially during school holidays. Instagram

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Distillerie Claeyssens offers value through its tasting opportunities in the shop. Sampling different spirits before buying can help you make a cost-effective purchase of a unique souvenir. Reddit

Entry to the shop is typically free, and while tours might have a fee, the experience of browsing and tasting can be fulfilling on its own. If the ephemeral bar is open, enjoying a single drink in the historic setting can be a more affordable way to experience the distillery's ambiance compared to a full meal elsewhere. Instagram

🥂 Couples & Friends

Distillerie Claeyssens is a fantastic spot for couples and friends looking for a unique outing. The historic ambiance, combined with the opportunity to sample local spirits, creates a memorable experience. Reddit

Visiting during the summer when the ephemeral bar is open is highly recommended. Enjoying cocktails or aperitifs in the charming courtyard provides a romantic or social setting. The shop's tasting sessions are also a fun way to discover new favorite drinks together. Instagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Legacy of Spirits: The Claeyssens Story

Distillerie Claeyssens de Wambrechies boasts a rich heritage dating back to 1817, making it a significant producer of traditional spirits in the region. For over two centuries, it has proudly upheld the legacy of Genièvre, a spirit emblematic of the area. The distillery's impressive 3-column alembic, a piece of industrial heritage, is not only a functional piece of equipment but also a classified historical monument, symbolizing the enduring craftsmanship. Instagram

Despite a temporary halt in production at one point, the distillery has persevered, with ongoing projects aiming to transform the site into a multi-faceted destination. This includes plans for a museum, residential spaces, and coworking areas, all while striving to preserve the soul of this historic location. Instagram Visitors can still experience the essence of this legacy through tours, tastings, and the unique atmosphere of the shop.

The distillery's commitment to tradition is evident in its product range, which includes not only the classic Genièvre but also modern interpretations like gin and whisky, alongside a distinctive Beer Eau de Vie. This unique spirit, distilled from a blonde beer, offers a complex profile with vegetal and cereal notes, showcasing the distillery's innovative spirit within its traditional framework. Instagram

Experiencing the Summer Bar

During the summer months, Distillerie Claeyssens transforms its historic courtyard into an ephemeral bar, offering a delightful way to experience their spirits in a relaxed, convivial atmosphere. Open from Friday to Sunday, typically from 3 PM to 10 PM, this seasonal bar is a highlight for many visitors. Instagram+2

At the bar, guests can savor the distillery's own products, whether enjoyed neat as an aperitif or expertly crafted into cocktails. Beyond their spirits, a selection of beers, wines, and soft drinks are also available, ensuring there's something for everyone. For those feeling peckish, light catering options are usually on offer, making it a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a summer evening. Instagram

The ephemeral bar provides a unique opportunity to connect with the distillery's heritage in a contemporary setting. It’s a chance to mingle, enjoy the historic ambiance, and discover the nuanced flavors of Wambrechies' finest spirits. Remember to check their social media or website for the exact dates and opening times each summer. Instagram+1

The Charm of the Distillery Shop

The shop at Distillerie Claeyssens de Wambrechies is more than just a place to buy souvenirs; it's an extension of the distillery's historic charm. Housed within beautiful vaulted spaces, the shop presents a curated selection of the spirits produced on-site, alongside other local beverages. Reddit

Visitors have the opportunity to discover and purchase a range of products, including their signature Genièvre, various gins, whiskies, and the unique Beer Eau de Vie. The shop also stocks a selection of beers and wines, making it a comprehensive stop for beverage enthusiasts. A key feature of the shop is the availability of tastings, allowing patrons to sample different spirits and make informed choices about their purchases. Reddit

This tasting experience is highly valued by visitors, offering a chance to explore new flavors and appreciate the quality of the distillery's offerings. The pleasant welcome and the diverse choice available make the shop a highly recommended stop for anyone visiting the Distillerie Claeyssens. Reddit

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