Wynand Fockink Proeflokaal and Spirits

Taste Amsterdam’s maritime history in a tulip‑shaped glass

Quick Take

• Founded: 1679 — oldest working distillery in Amsterdam
• Specialties: 60 + house‑made genevers, liqueurs & bitters
• Signature Ritual: Glass filled to the meniscus; bow for the first sip
• Location: Pijlsteeg 31, a two‑minute stroll from Dam Square & the Royal Palace

A 17th‑Century Time Capsule

Since 1679, Wynand Fockink has distilled genever on the same spot, surviving wars, trade booms, and prohibition scares. Inside, pitch-black beams, Delft-blue tiles, and oak casks whisper VOC trade secrets. The aroma—juniper, citrus peel, and toasted grain—proves the past is still hard at work.

How to Drink Like an Amsterdammer

1. Pick your style – Oud (malty, barrel‑aged) or Jong (lighter, post‑20th‑century).
2. Watch the pour – The bartender tops the tulip glass until surface tension crowns the rim.
3. Bow & slurp – Lean in and sip the dome without lifting the glass; spilling is sacrilege.
4. Now you may sip – Raise the glass and savour at leisure.

Pro Tip: Space is limited to two standing counters. Arrive before 16:00 for elbow room, especially on weekends.

What to Taste

Indecisive? Choose the three‑pour tasting flight (€17.50)—weekends only, and it includes a peek at the micro‑distillery.

Practical Info

• Hours: Daily 15:00 – 21:00
• Tours: Book small‑group distillery visits on their website; parties of eight or more should reserve early.
• Payment: Bar prefers cash; the adjacent bottle shop accepts cards.
• Reservations: None for the proeflokaal. Expect a short queue after 18:00.

Nearby Hidden Gems

• Nieuwe Kerk – Cutting‑edge art exhibitions in a 15th‑century nave (2 min).
• Begijnhof – Quiet medieval courtyard for a palate reset (7 min).
• Canal‑Side Cheese Tasting – Complement genever notes with mature Gouda.

The next chapter of Amsterdam’s story is already swelling at the rim of that overfilled glass. Proost!