Jenever/Dutch Gin

Jenever is a typical Dutch drink, named for one of its ingredients, the juniper berry. It became popular in the 18th century and was exported in large quantities to England where it became the inspiration for London Dry Gin, a more heavily spiced spirit more suitable for mixing than drinking neat. In the Netherlands, Jenever is almost always consumed neat as its softer, subtler flavour and maltier taste make it an ideal sipping drink, especially when aged in wood for long periods, a practice which is all but unheard of in other Gin-producing countries.

The distinction between "old" and "young" Jenever lies not in ageing but the method of production. "Old" Jenever is made by the traditional method which was the only method known before 1900: fermentation of various types of wheat, followed by triple distillation. This product is called ´korenwijn´, or maltwine. A fourth distillation with herbs and juniperberries gives a very delicate distilled Jenever. This can be aged in oak barrels for up to 20 years, or consumed straight away.

"Young" Jenever is an industrial product which appeared after 1900. It is made by fermenting wheat (or sugarbeet) and distilling once to 96% alcohol. The result is a colourless, tasteless and odourless product, which prompted the decline of Dutch Jenever culture.

‘A.van Wees distillery de Ooievaar’ is the last authentic distillery left in Amsterdam. Their products are exclusively made with pure, natural raw materials. Inherited knowledge about the taste properties of fruit, flowers, plants, roots and seeds is used to balance the taste, without the addition of artificial flavours. The drinks are coloured with natural colorants.

‘A.van Wees distillery de Ooievaar’ arose in 1782. Until 1970 all products were delivered in cask to bars and restaurants. Due to changing markets and the diminishing quality of the Dutch cultural inheritance, they decided to start selling their products in stone and glass bottles. The distillery is run by Fenny van Wees assisted by a small loyal crew. Preserving a once world-famous Dutch cultural inheritance, authenticity and quality are their inspiration.