Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The former Chartreux distillery in Fourvoirie, located in Saint-Laurent-du-Pont, was transferred in 1860 to produce the liqueur of the Grande Chartreuse, a recipe drawn up in 1737 by Father Jérôme Maubec, apothecary of the monastery. This site benefited from major technical advances, such as the transition from split distillation to continuous distillation, as well as increased control of plants and distillates in the laboratory. These innovations made it possible to industrialize a previously confidential production.

From 1862 to 1884, the distillery underwent an extensive expansion programme to meet growing demand. However, the expulsion of the Chartreux in 1903 led to his abandonment for three decades, until the monks returned in 1932. The resumption of activities was of short duration: a landslide in 1935 destroyed two thirds of the site, leading to its definitive transfer to Voiron, where the liquor is still made today.

Today, there are only emblematic remains of Fourvoirie, including the building of the eight stills — partially ruined — the vaulted cellars with square pillars, the boiler room fireplace, and the loggers and shops located on the roadside. These elements, classified as Historic Monument in 1993, demonstrate the industrial and spiritual importance of the site, linked to the Chartreux heritage.

The liquor, always produced according to the original recipe from 130 plants, is marketed by the Société Chartreuse Diffusion. The Fourvoirie site, although disused, retains a strong heritage value, illustrating the alliance between monastic know-how and industrial revolution in the 19th century.

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