Usually, shops and bars open along popular streets. But with Pijlsteeg, it was the other way around – this narrow passage was carved through old quarters specifically to make it easier to reach the tasting room of Amsterdam’s oldest distillery, Wynand Fockink.
The story began in 1679 when ships of the Dutch East India Company carried cheese away from here and brought back sugar and exotic spices. From these, fragrant liqueurs were crafted – once a luxury only wealthy Amsterdammers could afford.
In 1724, the distillery passed to Wynand Fockink, who expanded it into an international business with branches in Berlin, Vienna, Paris, and Brussels – all while keeping it family-run until the mid-20th century. Later, it merged with another legendary brand, Lucas Bols, the world’s oldest gin producer, dating back to 1575.
Inside, you’ll find over seventy types of handcrafted liqueurs and genevers made using age-old recipes. But the real highlight is the tasting room’s unique atmosphere – imagine discussing Dutch East India Company affairs here 350 years ago! The bartenders still masterfully pick the perfect drink for each guest, usually within three attempts. Why not test their skills yourself?
