Review

A. Van Wees
Amsterdamsche Old Genever

Fenny van Wees of A.Van Wees Distillery de Ooievaar, Driehoekstraat, Jordaan, Amsterdam, Holland.

Van Wees Distillery de Ooievaar. 

Founded in 1782, A.van Wees claim to be the last authentic distiller left in Amsterdam. Right up until 1970 they were still delivering to commercial outlets in casks. Still run by family descendents the commercialism of mass production is shunned to preserve their authentic and cultural Dutch heritage.

Using natural raw materials only, the malt distillate from a range of 100 malt wines is distilled twice and aged in oak barrels for a minimum of 6 months before being put into stone bottles. It is slightly yellow in color, with no artificial flavors.

While the distillery isn't open to visitors, they have a restaurant and tasting room called “De Admiraal” in Herengracht, Amsterdam - ideal for visiting and acquainting oneself with their range of products.

Genever - Oude (Old).

35% (70 Proof).

$$$ - not available in the USA. Van Wees have an online store but only ship to other EU countries.

Unknown.

Quite simply put: it’s made in Amsterdam in the traditional or “Old” style of Genever.

On the nose is a nutty, oily and fresh earthiness with light spicy notes. On the palate the nutty tannin and wood comes through with spice (cinnamon and cloves) with hints of fruit. This is dry and oily and finishes with pepper. This is recommended for first time (and established) Genever drinkers.

Unknown.