Best Places to Sip Jenever in Amsterdam
While you might be accustomed to enjoying your gin with tonic, in the Netherlands, the traditional drink is jenever, dating back to the 16th century. This classic spirit is made by distilling grains and malt wine.
Jenever is usually served in a small tulip-shaped glass, filled to the brim. This intriguing serving style encourages you to take a sip before even lifting the glass. Contrary to appearances, jenever isn’t meant to be downed like a shot; instead, it invites you to savor its complex flavors. Jonge (young) jenever presents a neutral taste with juniper notes, whereas Oude (old) jenever is known for its aromatic and malty qualities. Many tasting rooms (proeflokaals) throughout Amsterdam provide opportunities to explore various jenever types, taking you on a delightful taste journey from mellow to the whisky-like profiles of older varieties.
Proeflokaal A van Wees
Situated in a former distillery on the Herengracht canal in Amsterdam, Proeflokaal A van Wees showcases 17 different jenever varieties, alongside a selection of beers, making it an ideal location for a kopstoot (head butt)—a jenever served neat with a glass of beer. Their menu offers classic Dutch snacks, including bitterballen, liver sausage, and a variety of cheeses. The borrelplanken is a recommended mixed board of snacks, and main meals are also available. The knowledgeable staff can guide you through the offerings, and they also host tasting sessions that delve into the history and distillation process of jenever.
Wynand Fockink
A historic gem just off an alleyway near Dam Square, Wynand Fockink has functioned as a distillery since 1679. This cozy tasting room allows visitors to sample jenevers crafted using traditional 17th-century methods. For those interested in taking a piece of history home, the adjacent liquor store offers a variety of handcrafted jenevers and tulip glasses. Private tastings, including distillery tours, are offered on weekends.
De Drie Fleschjes
De Drie Fleschjes, translating to ‘the three bottles,’ is a historic location worth visiting on your jenever journey. This establishment dates back to 1650, and entering feels like stepping into the past, with large wooden casks lining the bar. Be sure to check out their unique collection of small bottles adorned with hand-painted portraits of Amsterdam’s past mayors.
Proeflokaal de Ooievaar
Rich in history, Proeflokaal de Ooievaar is a charming 18th-century tasting room that radiates classic Dutch ambiance with stained glass windows and a bar filled with vintage clay jenever bottles. Conveniently located a short distance from Amsterdam Central Station, the friendly staff are eager to assist you in finding your ideal jenever.
Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep
Travel to the east of the city and immerse yourself in the scenic surroundings of Flevopark while enjoying jenever at Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep. This picturesque spot, located in a restored 1880 pump house, began distilling jenever in 2010. They serve homemade jenever produced through traditional techniques and offer unique fruit-flavored options, along with liqueurs for those seeking a different taste experience.
In de Olofspoort
Packed with local charm, In de Olofspoort feels like a time capsule. Wooden barrels, vintage jenever bottles hung from the walls, beamed ceilings, and a polished mahogany bar set the stage for an authentic experience. Knowledgeable staff are eager to share insights about the various offerings, and you might just revel in a delightful sing-a-long if you’re fortunate.
House of Bols
Bols is the leading jenever brand in the Netherlands, and The House of Bols, located next to Museumplein, features interactive self-guided tours that transport you back to the Golden Age of jenever. After exploring the history and production of this beloved spirit, you can enjoy a jenever cocktail at the Mirror Bar, included with your entry fee.
