WHAT IS GENEVER?

Genever is the historical predecessor to gin, a maltwine-based spirit from the Low Countries that offers a richer, more complex alternative to its juniper-flavored descendants. This distinctive Dutch and Belgian spirit combines the character of whisky with the botanical complexity of gin.

The production of genever involves creating a maltwine (moutwijn) from fermented grains, typically a combination of rye, corn, and wheat. This maltwine forms the base of the spirit, providing a rich, malty character that distinguishes genever from gin. The maltwine is then distilled with juniper and other botanicals.

There are several categories of genever, distinguished by the proportion of maltwine in the final blend. Oude (old) genever contains a higher percentage of maltwine and represents the traditional, full-flavored style, while jonge (young) genever has less maltwine and a cleaner profile, though these designations refer to style rather than age.

Protected by EU regulations, authentic genever can only be produced in the Netherlands, Belgium, and specific regions of France and Germany. The regulations ensure that traditional production methods are maintained and that the spirit's unique character is preserved.

Genever is experiencing renewed interest as bartenders and spirits enthusiasts discover its unique qualities. It can be sipped neat or used in classic cocktails, where it adds depth and complexity that modern gin cannot replicate.