The Carthusian monks take Chartreuse very seriously
Although the liqueur now referred to as green Chartreuse wasn't fully developed until around 1840, its 130 botanicals are still sourced from a manuscript dating back to approximately 1605, which details an elixir for longevity, or "eau de vie." This manuscript has been essential to the production of Chartreuse, as it continues to serve as a reference in its creation. The Carthusian monks of northern France safeguard this manuscript, ensuring that the recipe remains a secret. Only two designated monks from the order are permitted to see it, and only one monk possesses the key to the safe where it is stored. According to the 2005 documentary "Into Great Silence," the various ingredients are organized by the brotherhood before being sent to their partner distiller, preserving complete confidentiality. However, one might wonder what would happen if anything were to occur to these two guardians of the secret before they could pass on their knowledge.
Fortunately for all Chartreuse enthusiasts, a Carthusian monk's understanding of the liqueur is not an all-or-nothing affair — they do not either possess full knowledge of the recipe or none at all. Many monks participate in the preparation and distillation processes without knowing the complete recipe. While the general public is not informed of any contingency plans in the event of a tragedy affecting one or both of the designated monks, it is reasonable to assume that there are other experienced monks within the order who are well-versed in the intricacies of Chartreuse and could step in during an emergency.
The recipe for Chartreuse has had a tumultuous history
Chartreuse has an enigmatic origin, and its subsequent history is equally captivating. Unraveling the story of Chartreuse and its custodians is no easy feat—partly due to the Carthusian monastery's prohibition on media within its confines and the monks' vow of silence regarding the production process. Additionally, tracing a single manuscript from its inception in 1605 to the present is challenging, especially considering the numerous governmental and societal shifts in France over the last four centuries. Fortunately, the official website of the Chartreuse distillery effectively chronicles the rich history of the liqueur, including the periods when the order faced upheaval and when the crucial manuscript was nearly lost.
The Carthusians initially operated within the French kingdom. However, the French Revolution of 1789, which toppled the monarchy, placed the order under intense scrutiny from the new regime. This culminated in 1792 when the monks were expelled from their monastery, and the vital 1605 manuscript fell out of their possession. Fortunately, a pharmacist named Pierre Liotard, who had connections to the Carthusians, managed to recover the manuscript in 1800. Eventually, the monks were permitted to return to their monastery, and in 1835, they successfully purchased the manuscript from Liotard's widow. Since then, they have faced challenges ranging from landslides and epidemics to the devastation of the World Wars. So, the next time you savor this unique liqueur, remember that you are enjoying a product that has withstood centuries of adversity, cherished by both casual drinkers and connoisseurs alike.
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