About Dutch Spirits

About Dutch Spirits
Gin and juniper-flavored spirits are an important part of the spirits industry of the Netherlands; Dutch soldiers in the 16th century were given genever to help them in their battles against opposing forces. The Dutch gins are very flavorful and elegant, often made with ingredients from countries as varied as Italy, Morocco and Indonesia. Genevers, produced long before the more commercial gins in the country, tend to be even spicier and more distinctive.

There are a few large distillers in the Netherlands that make fruit and nut liqueurs that are exported to many countries around the world. Flavored vodkas are also made here and exported; these are moderately priced vodkas for mixing.

Top Picks for Netherlands

Herman Jansen Notaris 3 Genever
94 points
$42
A lively, leathery tongue-tingling aged genever that will pop in cocktails.
Awards: 2021 Best Genever
Hooghoudt Raw Genever Holland Gin
93 points
$39
A hearty Genever with loads of toasted bread and herbal aromas that carry over to the palate.
Awards: 2022 Best Genever
Herman Jansen Notaris Bartenders Choice Genever
93 points
$32
A nicely layered genever that will provide complexity in cocktails.
Zuidam Rye Genever
93 points
$39
A robust well-aged genever with lots of spicy herbal character for sipping or cocktails.
Hooghoudt 3 Year Bourbon Barrel Aged Genever
92 points
$25
Best Buy
This caters to both Genever and Whiskey lovers and will mix well in cocktails.
92 points $25 Best Buy
Hooghoudt 5 Year Barrel Aged Genever
92 points
$45
A Genever for a Whiskey drinker; dark and complex with loads of woody spice.
Zuidam Old 3 Barrel Rested Genever
92 points
$39
A seamless and satisfying aged genever with complex, finely meshed flavors and a long warming finish; genever for whisky fans.
Van Gogh Vodka
90 points
$24
Purity, vibrance and length make this a highly recommended vodka.
Van Gogh Double Espresso Vodka
90 points
$28
A sweet, rounded coffee-flavored vodka; combine this with a splash of cream liqueur for a decadent after dinner cocktail.
Hooghoudt Sweet Spiced Genever
89 points
$19
Best Buy
Sweet, spicy, herbaceous and just a fun sipper.
89 points $19 Best Buy