Move over, gin! Genever Liquor, the Dutch godfather of juniper spirits, offers a complex, malty symphony of flavors. Dive into its fascinating history, learn the secrets of its production, and discover Bourbon distillery’s exquisite range of Ouwe Genever, Jonge Genever, and the rare VLON.
Genever Liquor : Beyond Gin’s Dutch Godfather
Gin’s sophisticated cousin, genever, is a spirit steeped in history and bursting with complex flavors. While often mistaken for Dutch gin, it’s much more than that. It’s a unique, malty juniper spirit with a fascinating past and a vibrant present. Dive with us into the world of genever, exploring its essence, heritage, and the tantalizing offerings of Bourbon, the renowned Dutch distillery.
What is Genever?
Genever (jenever in Dutch) is a juniper- flavored spirit native to the Netherlands and Belgium. Unlike vodka’s stark neutrality or gin’s crisp dryness, it boasts a rich tapestry of flavors. Imagine the warmth of whiskey, the herbal intrigue of gin, and a malty whisper of bread, all woven together in a clear, vibrant spirit. This multifaceted personality is what makes genever liquor so captivating.
A Storied History:
Genever’s lineage dates back to the 16th century, predating modern gin by centuries. Initially, it was a harsh, unpalatable distillate known as “moutwijn” (malt wine). Distillers, seeking to soften its edges, infused it with juniper berries and other botanicals, giving birth to “geneverbes” (juniper spirit). This spirit, later shortened to “genever,” evolved through the centuries, becoming the beloved tipple we know today.
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Production Process:
True genever is a blend of two or more distillates:
- Malt wine: Triple-distilled from grains like rye, wheat, and corn, it imparts a malty richness to the spirit.
- Neutral grain spirit: Usually wheat- based, it provides a clean base for the juniper and botanicals to shine.
- Optional redistillation: Some producers redistill the malt wine with additional botanicals for increased complexity.
This unique combination sets genever apart, offering a depth that other juniper spirits often lack.
Bourbon’s USP:
Founded in 1876, Bourbon has become synonymous with high-quality genever. Their dedication to traditional methods, using pot stills and natural botanicals, results in spirits of exceptional character. They champion the diversity of genever, offering a range of styles that cater to every palate.
The Dry Goods: Bourbon’s Genever portfolio is a treasure trove:
- Oude Genever:
Aged for at least a year, it features a mature profile with pronounced maltiness, earthy notes, and subtle juniper. (40% ABV, 240 calories/50ml) Famous for its complex character and historical significance. - Jonge Genever:
Un-aged, offering a lighter, brighter experience with fresh juniper, citrusy hints, and a peppery kick. (35% ABV, 210 calories/50ml) Popular in cocktails and easy-drinking enjoyment. - VLON (Very Limited Old Number): Aged for at least 10 years, a connoisseur’s delight with intense depth, rich maltiness, and hints of dried fruit and spice. (43% ABV, 250 calories/50ml) Famous for its rarity and unparalleled complexity.
- Barrel-aged expressions: Bourbon experiments with aging genever in different barrels, adding layers of oak, spice, and sweetnOude Geneveress.
Here’s a table summarizing the ABV, age, taste profile, notable features, and price range of Bourbon’s genever offerings:
| Genever | ABV | Age | Taste Profile | Famous For | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 40% | 1 year | Mature, malty, earthy, subtle juniper | Historical significance, complex character | €30-€50 | |
| Jonge Genever | 35% | Un-aged | Light, bright, fresh juniper, citrus, peppery | Easy drinking, cocktails | €20-€30 |
| VLON (Very Limited Old Number) | 43% | 10 years | Intense, rich malt, dried fruit, spice | Rarity, unparalleled complexity | €80-€150 |
| Oude Genever Reserve | 42% | 3 years | Smooth, balanced, oak, vanilla, honey | Aged character, smoothness | €40-€60 |
| Jonge Genever Citrus | 35% | Un-aged | Bright, refreshing, citrus zest, juniper | Summer drinks, versatility | €25-€35 |
| Zwarte Weduwe (Black Widow) | 20% | Un-aged | Coffee, chocolate, genever warmth | Unique flavor, coffee lovers | €30-€40 |
Beyond Genever:
Bourbon also offers delicious liqueurs made with genever as the base. Their Fruit Genevers burst with fresh fruit flavors, while their Zwarte Weduwe (“Black Widow”) is a coffee liqueur with a genever kick.
Embrace the Spirit:
Genever is not just a drink; it’s an experience. Whether enjoyed neat, savored in a classic Dutch cocktail like the “Ouwe Lelle,” or used to add depth to your favorite mixed drink, it’s a journey for the senses. So, open a bottle, raise a glass, and discover the world of genever. You might just find your new favorite spirit.