For the first time in its 175-year history, Cointreau opened its doors to the public to celebrate Margarita Week.

For one week only, guests were invited inside the House of Cointreau at the brand's home in the Loire Valley to celebrate Cointreau, one of the world’s most recognisable cocktail ingredients. 

To mark the celebration, one lucky winner and three guests were invited to enjoy a money-can’t-buy exclusive experience starting in Paris with an immersion into French cocktail culture before an exclusive stay at La Richardière, the former Cointreau family home.

Guests were invited into the world of Cointreau with an experience that offered exclusive access to the estate with private distillery tours, hands-on Margarita masterclasses, and seasonal French dining with local talent. The experience was hosted by sixth-generation family member Alfred Cointreau. 

The exclusive experience was crafted to celebrate Cointreau’s history and offer an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at what has shaped one of the world’s most recognisable drinks brands. 

The stay taps into the growing excitement around rural France as heritage estates and immersive, cinematic-inspired escapes continue to capture attention, combining this with the growing love for the Margarita as a mainstay cocktail. 

The Margarita itself was at the heart of the experience. Cointreau’s heritage is closely tied to the drink, which has an enduring influence on modern cocktail culture. The cocktail inspired every aspect of the House of Cointreau experience.  

"The Margarita is more than a cocktail - it’s a celebration of creativity, connection, and joy. With this Ultimate Margarita Getaway, we’re inviting guests to experience the heart of Cointreau, to explore our heritage, and to share in the magic of crafting and enjoying cocktails together,” says Alfred Cointreau. “It’s about bringing people together, learning, and creating memories that last long after the glass is empty." 

The Original Margarita was created in 1948 by Margaret Sames using Cointreau liqueur, Tequila and fresh lime juice, with Cointreau the only ingredient specifically named in the recipe. 

The exclusive experience was delivered in partnership with Secret Escapes, the luxury travel platform that shares Cointreau’s passion for creating unforgettable, shared experiences. 

“We are experts in curating trips with the wow-factor, unlocking access to outrageously bookable travel deals that you can't find anywhere else online. Partnering with Cointreau allows us to offer exactly that - a rare chance to experience La Richardière through the eyes of the Maison. It’s a celebration of great hospitality, delicious cocktails and joyful company, all in one extraordinary setting,” says Samantha Palmer, Head of UK Brand Partnerships at Secret Escapes. 

Designed to showcase the brand’s heritage and create an unforgettable experience for a few lucky cocktail lovers, the luxury getaway celebrates Cointreau and its cultural impact via the Margarita.