Though only open since 2010, Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep has already established itself as a beloved Amsterdam institution. This craft distillery in Amsterdam’s far-east Flevopark calls a former pumping station home. (Recall that Amsterdam sits precariously on reclaimed and below-sea-level land.)
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It churns out roughly 100 different organic varieties of liquor, but specializes in “jenever,” known as “Dutch gin.” Head to the distillery’s tasting room, helpfully located right next door, to test out the flavors yourself. Generally, locals have an inclination for sweet jenever distilled with apple and strawberry, as opposed to traditionally used juniper. The widely known “citroen jenever” also has many devotees.
A day at Distillery ‘t Nieuwe Diep can feel somewhat like going back in time for a while. Or falling down Alice’s rabbit-hole. The scenic, lush setting in green Flevopark enchants you with a majestic feeling like you’re a million miles away from the rest of the world. Even though you’re still in Amsterdam. Not far from a tram stop, actually. Also, be sure to check out the reconstructed polder pump structure, circa 1880.
The tasting room serves all kinds of general beverages as well. These include coffee, soda, wine and even a Basque-style apple cider. Nosh on meat-and-cheese platters to sop up the booze. The “ossenworst” is terrific.
Hours: Like any remarkable “secret” spot, this is the rub. Although it’s seasonally dependent, your best bet is from 3-5(winter)/8PM(summer) Wednesday to Sunday. Confirm by phone at +06 50 676 339 and +06 27 076 065 or email at info@nwediep.nl.
Location: Flevopark 13, Amsterdam East