I'm Noëlle, a travel advisor at the Aigues-Mortes Tourist Office for many years, always eager to discover new experiences to recommend to our visitors. Today, I'm taking you behind the scenes of Maison Fluide, an artisanal distillery where Frédéric and Pascal share their passion for distillation and the Camargue terroir. From production techniques and family stories to a tasting session, this visit promises to awaken all your senses !
A distillery in Aigues-Mortes, just a short walk from the historic centre, open to visitors and with a shop… my curiosity as a travel advisor is instantly sparked ! I'm off for a tour full of discoveries, flavours and aromas.
Frédéri and Pascal, two passionate brothers, welcome me and show me around. I step inside a magnificent late 19th-century stone building, a former wine cellar. Located between the railway station and the canal, it once allowed goods to be transferred directly between trains and barges. I'm immediately captivated by its impressive spaces, where stone, wood and iron blend together in a beautifully restored setting.
Pascal tells us how this family adventure began. Originally from Aigues-Mortes, the two brothers are committed to showcasing the Camargue terroir, particularly through Camargue rice, which is used in some of their spirits. Inspired by the experience of their grandfather and great-grandfather, both distillers, they fulfilled a shared dream by creating their own local artisanal distillery.
Pascal explains every step in the production of gin, vodka and rum. Standing beside the magnificent still – the true centrepiece of the distillery – he shows how he creates the desired aromas, structure and alcohol content.
From raw ingredients to the finished spirit, he carefully oversees every step and hopes to pass on his expertise.
Distilling is an art where technique alone is not enough : subtlety, patience and attentiveness are essential. It is truly the work of a craftsman… or even an alchemist.
Separated by a glass partition, the shop and tasting area offers a direct view of the still, the true beating heart of the distillery. This custom-made 600-litre copper still was crafted by a specialist coppersmith from the Gers region. A true technical masterpiece, it gives each spirit its finesse and distinctive character.
Soft lighting, a central bar, small tables and regional products have all been carefully chosen to awaken the senses and create a warm atmosphere.
Modern, elegant bottles, delicate tasting glasses designed to reveal every aroma, and old family photographs displayed opposite the bar add a unique heritage touch. They tell the story of Frédéri and Pascal's grandfather, who already produced aniseed and other spirits and was once a direct competitor of Paul Ricard.
Today, the two brothers proudly carry on this tradition, blending heritage, passion and modernity.
What makes this tour truly unique is the combination of technical discovery, family history and tasting. You can watch the meticulous distillation process, listen to fascinating stories and taste the spirits on site, all in a warm and authentic setting.
What's more, the guided tour is accessible to everyone : €5 per person (free for under-18s) for a one-hour experience available in French or English. Tours are limited to 15 participants, include a tasting and are available by reservation only.
I left delighted and inspired by this immersion into the world of artisanal distilling. Combining family expertise, tastings and a passion for the Camargue terroir, a visit to Maison Fluide is an experience I highly recommend. For more information, click here.
Place Saint Louis - BP 23
30220 AIGUES-MORTES