Braunstein - Micro Brewery and Distillery
History of Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery
The story of Braunstein begins in 1998, not with the gurgle of a copper pot still, but with a fishing trip to Scotland. It was there that brothers Michael and Claus Braunstein first dreamt of crafting their own whisky. This dream simmered for several years until 2005, when they took a bold step and acquired a harbor-side site in Køge, Denmark.
Pioneers of the Craft Beer Renaissance
Braunstein wasn’t just about whisky; it was also about beer. In 2005, they became one of the first ten micro-breweries in Denmark, a country then dominated by large-scale commercial producers. Their arrival marked the beginning of a craft beer revolution in Denmark. Braunstein quickly gained a reputation for innovative and flavorful beers, establishing itself as a leader in the burgeoning craft beer scene.
Whiskey Dreams Realized
Never forgetting their Scottish inspiration, Michael and Claus Braunstein didn’t stop with beer. In 2007, they added distilling equipment to their Køge facility, becoming the first micro-distillery of whisky in Denmark. This pioneering spirit paid off in 2010 when they released their first Danish micro-distilled whisky, making national headlines.
Award-Winning Excellence
Today, Braunstein is a thriving micro-brewery and distillery. Their dedication to quality has been recognized with numerous awards for both their beers and their whiskies. Visitors to Braunstein can enjoy tours, tastings, and even the opportunity to own their own cask of maturing whisky, a truly unique experience.
A Blend of Tradition and Innovation
Braunstein’s philosophy is a fascinating blend of honoring tradition and embracing innovation. They use high-quality, locally sourced ingredients in their beers and whiskies, while also experimenting with new techniques and flavors. This approach has resulted in a diverse range of products, from classic pilsners to peated single malts.
A Look Ahead: A Future Steeped in Tradition
Braunstein’s story is one of passion, dedication, and a dash of brotherly rivalry. As they look towards the future, they remain committed to their craft, constantly striving to push boundaries and redefine what Danish beer and whisky can be.
Awards Won by Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery
- International Wine & Spirit Competition (IWSC):
- Braunstein’s whisky has consistently won gold and silver medals at the prestigious IWSC every year since 2013. These awards highlight the distillery’s excellence and craftsmanship in whisky production.
- Stockholm Beer and Whisky Festival:
- The distillery’s wheat beer won a gold medal at the Stockholm Beer and Whisky Festival. This recognition underscores Braunstein’s ability to produce top-tier beers alongside their celebrated spirits.
- Construction of the Year Award:
- In 2021, Braunstein’s new visitor center, Pakhuset (‘The Warehouse’), won the Construction of the Year Award. This award recognized the architectural and societal significance of the building, which adds to the distillery’s charm and visitor experience.
Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery Tour Information and Experience
Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery, located in Køge, Denmark, offers a comprehensive and engaging tour experience for visitors. Here’s what you can expect:
Distillery and Brewery Tour
- Guided Tours: Visitors can embark on guided tours that provide a detailed insight into the distillation and brewing processes. During the tour, guests will learn about the history of Braunstein, the types of grains used, the fermentation process, and the unique aspects of their brewing and distilling techniques.
- Whisky Tasting: A highlight of the tour is the whisky tasting session. Guests have the opportunity to sample various whiskies, including some special editions from their acclaimed Library Collection. The tasting provides a sensory journey through different flavor profiles and maturation techniques.
- Beer Tasting: Alongside whisky, Braunstein offers tastings of their craft beers. The brewery is known for its seasonal beers and special brews, such as the award-winning wheat beer and their popular lagers and IPAs.
- Hands-On Experience: Visitors can participate in activities like “Whisky for self-bottling,” where they can bottle their own whisky straight from the cask. This unique experience allows guests to take home a personalized bottle.
Visitor Center and Facilities
- Pakhuset (‘The Warehouse’): The newly constructed visitor center, Pakhuset, is a spacious and modern facility that enhances the tour experience. It features long wooden tables and an industrial-chic ambiance, perfect for enjoying tastings and meals.
- Dining Options: The visitor center offers a selection of draft beers and thin-crust stone-baked pizzas, providing a delightful dining experience alongside the tours. The facility is situated right on the water’s edge, offering scenic views and a cozy atmosphere.
Flask & Barrel Review of Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery
Braunstein is a gem in the heart of Køge. As soon as you step into the distillery, you’re greeted with a welcoming atmosphere and a sense of tradition blended with modern craft. The tour is both informative and engaging, making it perfect for both seasoned whiskey collectors like myself and casual visitors.
The guided tour is fantastic. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about their craft, explaining the distillation and brewing processes in a way that was easy to understand but still detailed enough to keep enthusiasts like me interested. We got to see everything from the grain selection to the fermentation tanks and the beautiful copper stills.
The tasting session was a highlight. Braunstein’s whiskies are exceptional. We sampled several, including some from their special Library Collection. Each one had unique characteristics and flavors that showed the distillery’s dedication to quality. The beer tasting was equally impressive. Their craft beers, especially the award-winning wheat beer, were fresh and flavorful.
A unique part of the tour was the “Whisky for self-bottling” activity. I got to bottle my own whisky straight from the cask, which was an awesome experience and a perfect keepsake.
The visitor center, Pakhuset, adds to the experience. It’s a spacious, stylish area right by the water, with great views and a cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed some thin-crust stone-baked pizza and a few more drafts from their extensive beer selection. The place has a laid-back vibe, perfect for winding down after the tour.
Braunstein is a must-visit for any whiskey lover. The combination of knowledgeable staff, top-notch spirits, and a great setting makes it a standout. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Køge, this place offers a memorable experience.
What To Do Nearby Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery
Køge Town Center (0.8 miles): Stroll through the charming streets of Køge town center, lined with colorful houses and a mix of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Don’t miss the impressive Køge Church, dating back to the 15th century.
Vallø Castle (2.2 miles): Step back in time at Vallø Castle, a magnificent Renaissance castle surrounded by beautiful gardens. Explore the lavish interiors, learn about the castle’s fascinating history, and wander through the peaceful grounds.
Køge A Museum (2.3 miles): Dive into the rich history of Køge and the surrounding region at Køge A Museum. This museum showcases exhibits on local culture, archaeology, and maritime history, offering a window into the region’s past.
*Solrød Strand (4.7 miles):** Relax on the sandy shores of Solrød Strand beach. This popular spot is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or taking a walk along the scenic coastline. If you’re feeling adventurous, try your hand at windsurfing or kitesurfing.
Vikingeskibsmuseet (Viking Ship Museum) (19.8 miles): A short drive away in Roskilde, explore the Viking Ship Museum. Here you can marvel at original Viking ships unearthed from local waterways, gaining insights into their shipbuilding skills and seafaring prowess.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery?
Bossa Nova: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Torvet 19, 4600 Køge, Denmark. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +45 56 63 00 08.
Køges Pizza Pit: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Nørregade 13, 4600 Køge, Denmark. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +45 56 63 09 00.
Vallø Slotskro: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Slotsgade 1, 4600 Køge, Denmark. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +45 56 27 07 02.
What hotels are near Braunstein – Micro Brewery and Distillery?
Troldegaarden Guesthouse: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Åshøjvej 21, 4600 Køge, Denmark. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +45 56 65 79 80.
Gl. Hastrup B&B: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Hastrupvej 15, 4600 Køge, Denmark. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +45 56 65 92 88.
Ellegaarden Bed and Breakfast: It has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Egøjevej 146, 4600 Køge, Denmark. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +45 56 65 66 30.