Hasselt: The World Capital of Jenever

A Rich History

Did you know that Hasselt is officially recognized as the world capital of jenever? This title didn't come out of nowhere. Jenever has been distilled in Hasselt since the 16th century, and at its peak in the 19th century, the city boasted no fewer than 163 distilleries! Today, this artisanal tradition is alive and well, with local distilleries combining ancient recipes with innovative new flavors.

The jenever tradition is so important to Hasselt that the city has dedicated an entire museum to it: the National Jenever Museum. Located in an authentic 19th-century distillery, it takes you on a journey through the history of this quintessentially Flemish spirit.

What Makes Hasselt Jenever Special?

Authentic Hasselt jenever distinguishes itself through its smooth taste and the use of high-quality grains. Grain jenever, distilled from wheat, rye, or barley, forms the foundation of the craft. But Limburg's distillers aren't afraid to experiment: from blueberry jenever to speculaas jenever – there's something for everyone.

The secret lies in the malt wine, the heart of any quality jenever. The higher the percentage of malt wine, the fuller and more complex the flavor. An aged grain jenever that has rested for months in oak barrels offers an entirely different experience than a fresh young jenever.

How to Drink Jenever?

True connoisseurs drink their jenever at room temperature, in a tulip-shaped glass that beautifully captures the aromas. Fill the glass to the brim – that's the tradition! – and take your first sip by bringing your lips to the glass rather than lifting the glass. This is called "kopstootje" (little headbutt) in Dutch.

For fruit jenevers, different rules apply: these can certainly be served chilled. Perfect as a digestif after a hearty meal or as a surprising addition to a cocktail.

Local Favorites

At Lekker Limburgs, we carry a carefully curated selection of Hasselt jenevers. From the classic young jenever to special varieties like lemon jenever and the seasonal speculaas jenever. We're particularly proud of the jenevers from Stokerij Stookkot and the award-winning Roland W collection – all distilled according to centuries-old Hasselt traditions.

Our recommendations:

• Hasseltse Young Jenever 50cl – the perfect introduction
• Roland W Aged Grain Jenever – for the connoisseur
• Hasseltse Blueberry Jenever – fruity and refreshing
• Lemon Jenever – summery and light

Whether you're a connoisseur or want to discover jenever for the first time: there's no better way to taste the flavor of Limburg than with a glass of our local spirit.

Visitor's Tip

Planning a visit to Hasselt? Combine a visit to the Jenever Museum with a stroll through the historic center. And don't forget: every October, Hasselt celebrates the Jenever Festival, when the entire city revolves around this Limburg heritage.

Cheers – or as we say in Limburg: gezondheid!