Bokma Oude Friesche Genever (Jenever) (1000ml)

Genever (also known as Jenever or Jeniever) Dutch Gin is a full bodied malty spirit that was introduced to the Northern Netherlands in the 16th century by Southern Netherlanders who were fleeing the Spanish inquisition. Although it was originally created for purely medicinal reasons, (juniper berries being of diuretic value in flushing the urinary system) the popularity of this hardy new spirit spread so quickly that it soon was hailed as Holland’s national drink.

There are two main types of Genever: ‘Oude’ (Old) and ‘Jonge’ (Young). This is not a matter of aging, but of distilling techniques. Jonge Genever can contain no more than 15% malt wine and 10 grams of sugar per litre where Oude Genever must contain at least 15% malt wine but not more than 20 grams of sugar per litre, it is straw-hued, relatively sweet and aromatic.

The Bokma product was originally a family operated business. Freerk Klazes Bokma gained the rights to establish a distillery in 1894 and later in 1971 they entered into a joint venture with Heineken enhancing its distribution network which enabled Bokma to become one of the Netherlands most beloved spirits. It is now a part of the Lucas Bols portfolio.

An interesting fact when contemplating the use of Genever: in 1862 a celebrity bartender by the name of Jerry Thomas produced the world's first cocktail and bartending book titled 'The Bar-tenders Guide or How To Mix Drinks'. Within appeared recipes based around four basic cocktail spirits being brandy, rum, whisky and not surprisingly, Genever the classic predecessor of London Dry Gin. Oude Genever can also be served neat, straight from the freezer. Enjoy!

Tasting note... Clear with very pale green/yellow tinge. Delicate top notes of orange blossom and lavender over heavier scents of almonds, dried citrus peel, caraway and rye bread. Sweet rye bread, caraway and anise flavours build into white pepper wave with good length. Moderate aftertaste of rye bread and caraway, finishing clean, dry and fresh with a subtle anise fade.. 38% Alc./Vol.