Harvesting génépi: high-altitude know-how

Every summer, at an altitude of over 2,000 meters, a key moment takes place for our Guillaumette house: the harvest of cultivated génépi . A symbol of our mountains, this rare and precious plant can only be tamed with patience, respect for nature... and a little breath!

An emblematic plant of the Alps

Genepi is an iconic alpine plant , prized for generations for its powerful aromas and digestive benefits. At Guillaumette, we cultivate our organic genepi in the Hautes-Alpes , in Orcières , in keeping with family tradition. Our plantation is located at an altitude of 2,100 meters , in the heart of a protected environment, near the Écrins National Park.

Cultivation at altitude and harvested by hand, according to the rules of the art

Before even thinking about harvesting, everything begins several months earlier, on the heights of Orcières-Merlette . This is where we rigorously carry out the cultivation of génépi , by sowing, covering, scratching and maintaining the plots. This preparatory work is essential to guarantee optimal flowering.

Harvesting takes place between late June and late July, depending on spring weather and mountain conditions. Prolonged snowfall or a cold spring can delay flowering, while a milder start to the season can accelerate it.

Then comes the most delicate moment: the harvest, carried out exclusively by hand . We only take the flowering tops at maturity, without uprooting the plant, to allow its natural regeneration. This artisanal know-how , passed down through several generations, ensures exceptional aromatic quality and the preservation of this precious plant.

A local, organic and family culture

Our cultivated genepi is certified organic, grown with passion and patience, without irrigation or chemical additives. It grows in healthy soil, at the pace dictated by the altitude and alpine climate.

All stages of processing are carried out in our workshop in Pont du Fossé: from maceration to bottling, we bring to life an artisanal génépi liqueur which expresses all the richness of the terroir and the plant.

A reward that matches the effort

In 2024, our Authentic Génépi received the gold medal at the Concours Général Agricole in Paris. A wonderful recognition for our field work, our commitment to sustainable génépi cultivation , and our commitment to mountain values.

You too, experience Guillaumette

Would you like to taste our 2024 harvest? Find our bottles, demijohns, miniatures, and sprigs of organic génépi in our online store . Whether you're giving it as a gift, tasting it, or infusing it, the spirit of the Hautes-Alpes is coming to your home.