Zuidam Distillers
History of Zuidam Distillers
Founding and Early Years
Zuidam Distillers, known initially as Baarle International, was founded in 1975 in the Netherlands. The distillery was established by Fred van Zuidam, who had previously gained 20 years of experience as a master distiller in a large distillery. He started Zuidam on a small scale, initially with one production line and one pot still.
Growth and Family Involvement
Fred van Zuidam’s distillery initially produced good drinks but not distinct from competitors. It wasn’t until his wife, Helene, began designing packaging labels that the business started to gain traction. The distillery expanded over the years, with Fred’s sons, Patrick and Gilvert, taking over production and customer services, respectively. This family-led approach has been a key factor in the distillery’s success.
Current Status
Today, Zuidam Distillers operates on a much larger scale, with six stills and four production lines, and a 3600 square meter facility housing 1000 barrels. The distillery maintains its family ownership and continues producing various spirits and liqueurs.
Products and Innovations
Zuidam is renowned for its MillStone Whisky brand and its gins and genevers. They have experimented with different barley types and have a longer fermentation time of five days, which contributes to a fruity new make spirit, along with the use of small pot stills.
Zuidam also differs from many distilleries in its use of vintage solera sherry casks rather than seasoned ones, which are integral to the unique flavor profiles of their spirits.
Distilling Methods
Patrick van Zuidam, recognized as a master distiller, oversees the production at the distillery. Traditional methods are still employed in the distilling process, including milling malted grains for genever in Dutch windmills, long fermentation times, distilling in pot stills, and aging in oak casks.
Awards Won by Zuidam Distillers
World’s Best Distillery 2020: Awarded by Wizards of Whiskey, this honour recognises Zuidam as a top player in the distillery world.
Millstone 100 Rye Whisky Awards: This whisky has garnered attention, achieving 95 points at the Ultimate Spirits Challenge 2021 and 92 points at the New York International Spirits Competition.
International Spirits Challenge, London: Zuidam has won both a Gold Medal and the title of Best in Class at this highly respected competition.
Dutch Courage Dry Gin Awards: This gin has a list of accolades, including a gold medal at the International Spirits Challenge 2012, Master/Best in Class from Drinks Business, “Best White Spirit of the year” by Paul Pacult’s Spirits Journal, and a gold medal at the BTI competition in Chicago.
Other Recognitions: Dutch Courage Dry Gin also received “Classic, highest recommendation” (96-100 points) from Wine Enthusiast and was awarded the Best of Show at the Los Angeles International Wine and Spirits Competition.
Distinctive Features of Zuidam Distillers
Exclusive Use of Dutch Windmills for Milling
One of the unique aspects of Zuidam Distillers is their use of traditional Dutch windmills for milling the malted grains. This method is not only culturally significant but also ensures a gentle milling process, preserving the integrity of the grains.
Extended Fermentation Process
Zuidam employs an unusually long fermentation period for their spirits. Extending the fermentation to five days, much longer than the industry standard, allows for the development of a deeper and more complex flavor profile in their products.
Custom Distillation Method for Gin
Zuidam uses a distinct distillation method to produce their Dutch Courage Dry Gin where each botanical is distilled separately. This results in a gin with a fresh, layered, and complex flavor profile, distinguished from other gins that typically distill all botanicals together.
Limited and Special Edition Releases
Zuidam has a reputation for offering limited and special edition releases. These exclusive products often feature unique aging processes or rare ingredients, providing connoisseurs with distinctive and sought-after spirits.
What To Do Nearby Zuidam Distillers
Wijngaard Hof van Baarle: This unique vineyard has grapes planted across both Dutch and Belgian territories, offering a distinct wine-tasting experience. It’s a great place for wine enthusiasts to explore.
Visit Baarle: The visitor center in Baarle provides insights into the unique geopolitical situation of the region, where Dutch and Belgian territories intertwine. It’s an educational and interesting visit for those curious about the area’s history.
Sint Salvatorkapel: This religious site offers a tranquil setting for visitors seeking a peaceful retreat or interested in historical architecture.
Het Melkhuisje, Melkveebedrijf Beljaars: This farm offers a glimpse into local agricultural practices and is ideal for families or anyone interested in rural life.
World Capital Of Enclaves: Baarle-Hertog-Nassau is known for its unique enclave situation, making it an exciting destination for those interested in geography and political borders.
Baarle outdoor & leisure: For those looking for outdoor activities and group fun, this location offers various engaging options in a picturesque setting.
Frequently Asked Questions
What restaurants are near Zuidam Distillers?
Wild West Restaurant: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can reach out to them on their phone at +31 6 14855132. Their address is Singel 18, 5111 CD Baarle-Nassau, Netherlands.
Coffee Corner ‘t Singeltje: This restaurant has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. You can contact them at +31 13 507 7262 for reservations. The address is Singel 8, 5111 CD Baarle-Nassau, Netherlands.
‘t Goei Gevoel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. For bookings, their contact number is +31 13 590 2583. The restaurant is located at Alphenseweg 4D, 5111 NC Baarle-Nassau, Netherlands.
What hotels are near Zuidam Distillers?
Sporthotel Bruurs: It has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. For reservations, you can contact them at +31 13 507 5332. Their address is Sportlaan 22, 5111 BX Baarle-Nassau, Netherlands.
Turnhout City Hotel: This hotel has a rating of 4.2 stars on Google Maps. You can reach out to them for reservations at +32 14 82 02 02. The hotel is located at Stationstraat 5, 2300 Turnhout, Belgium.
Stella Suites Boutique Hotel: It has a rating of 4.8 stars on Google Maps. For bookings, their contact number is +31 13 720 0819. The hotel’s address is Kloosterstraat 12, 5051 RD Goirle, Netherlands.