Dutch Beer and Gin: Local Beverages to Try

The Netherlands is not only famous for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage but also for its exceptional beverages. Dutch beer and gin (jenever) are two of the most iconic local drinks that have gained international acclaim. Whether you’re a beer enthusiast or a spirits connoisseur, exploring Dutch beer and gin offers a delightful journey into the country’s brewing and distilling traditions. This article highlights some of the best Dutch beers and gins to try, along with their history and unique characteristics.

1. Dutch Beer

The Netherlands has a long and storied history of beer brewing, dating back to the Middle Ages. Today, Dutch breweries produce a wide range of beers, from traditional lagers to innovative craft brews.

Heineken

• Type: Pale Lager
• Description: Heineken is one of the most recognizable Dutch beers worldwide. Known for its crisp, refreshing taste, Heineken is a classic pale lager that pairs well with a variety of foods. The brewery, founded in 1864 in Amsterdam, offers tours that provide insights into its brewing process and history.

Amstel

• Type: Pale Lager
• Description: Another iconic Dutch beer, Amstel is a smooth and easy-to-drink pale lager. It was first brewed in 1870 by the Amstel Brewery in Amsterdam. Amstel is known for its balanced flavor and is a popular choice both in the Netherlands and internationally.

Grolsch

• Type: Pilsner
• Description: Grolsch, founded in 1615, is one of the oldest breweries in the Netherlands. Its distinctive swing-top bottles are a hallmark of the brand. Grolsch Premium Pilsner is a well-balanced beer with a slightly bitter finish, making it a favorite among beer lovers.

La Trappe

• Type: Trappist Ale
• Description: La Trappe is the only Trappist brewery in the Netherlands, located at the Koningshoeven Abbey. The monks brew a variety of ales, including Dubbel, Tripel, and Quadrupel, each with complex flavors and high alcohol content. La Trappe beers are highly regarded for their quality and craftsmanship.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ

• Type: Craft Beer
• Description: Located in Amsterdam, Brouwerij ‘t IJ is a renowned craft brewery known for its unique and flavorful beers. The brewery is housed in a former windmill, adding to its charm. Popular offerings include the IJwit (wheat beer) and Zatte (Tripel).

2. Dutch Gin (Jenever)

Jenever, often referred to as Dutch gin, is a traditional juniper-flavored spirit that has been produced in the Netherlands since the 16th century. It is the precursor to modern gin and holds a special place in Dutch culture.

Bols

• Type: Jenever
• Description: Bols is one of the oldest distilleries in the world, founded in 1575 in Amsterdam. Bols Jenever is available in two main varieties: Jonge Jenever (young jenever), which is lighter and more neutral in flavor, and Oude Jenever (old jenever), which has a richer, more complex taste. Bols also offers a range of flavored liqueurs.

Van Wees

• Type: Jenever
• Description: Van Wees, established in 1782, is known for its high-quality jenever and traditional distilling methods. Their Maltwijn is a particularly notable product, made from malt wine and aged in oak barrels, resulting in a smooth and aromatic spirit.

Zuidam

• Type: Jenever
• Description: Zuidam is a family-owned distillery that produces a range of spirits, including jenever. Their Dutch Courage Gin is a modern take on traditional jenever, combining juniper with botanicals like coriander, angelica root, and citrus peel. Zuidam’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship has earned it a strong reputation.

Filliers

• Type: Jenever
• Description: Although technically a Belgian distillery, Filliers has a significant presence in the Dutch market and is highly regarded for its jenever. Their Dry Gin 28 is a premium gin that blends traditional jenever with contemporary gin flavors, offering a unique and versatile spirit.

3. Beer and Gin Tasting Experiences

To fully appreciate Dutch beer and gin, consider participating in tasting experiences and tours offered by breweries and distilleries.

Heineken Experience

• Location: Amsterdam
• Description: The Heineken Experience is an interactive tour of the original Heineken brewery. Visitors can learn about the brewing process, the history of Heineken, and enjoy tastings of their famous lager.

Bols Bartending Academy

• Location: Amsterdam
• Description: The Bols Bartending Academy offers a fun and educational experience where visitors can learn about the history of Bols, taste different jenevers and liqueurs, and even try their hand at mixing cocktails.

Brouwerij ‘t IJ Tour

• Location: Amsterdam
• Description: Brouwerij ‘t IJ offers guided tours of its brewery, providing insights into the craft brewing process. The tour includes tastings of their diverse beer offerings.

Jenever Tasting in Schiedam

• Location: Schiedam
• Description: Schiedam is known as the jenever capital of the Netherlands. The National Jenever Museum offers tastings and tours, allowing visitors to explore the history and production of this traditional spirit.