Top 10 Jenever & Gin Bars in the Netherlands — a 2026 Travel Guide to Historic Proeflokalen & Craft Distilleries

What is jenever, and how does it differ from gin? Jenever (also spelled genever) is the Dutch malt-wine spirit that gave birth to modern gin. Unlike London Dry Gin, traditional *oude* (old-style) jenever contains a moutwijn (malted grain spirit) base that gives it a rounder, almost whisky-like character. The spirit is protected by a European PDO, meaning only jenever produced in the Netherlands, Belgium, and two designated regions of France and Germany may legally carry the name. For the official definition, see the [EU Geographical Indications register](https://ec.europa.eu/agriculture/quality/door/).

What is a proeflokaal? A *proeflokaal* (literally 'tasting room') is a traditional Dutch tasting house, historically attached to a distillery or spirits merchant. Dating to the 17th century, proeflokalen remain the best settings to compare a wide range of jenevers side by side — many of those on this list are among Amsterdam's oldest surviving examples.

Where is jenever primarily produced in the Netherlands? Schiedam, near Rotterdam, is the historic world capital of jenever production and was home to hundreds of distilleries during its 19th-century golden age. Amsterdam and Dordrecht also host significant surviving operations, several of which appear on this list.

## What is jenever? Jenever (also spelled genever) is the Dutch juniper-flavoured spirit that predates modern London dry gin. It is distilled in the Netherlands and Belgium, traditionally made from a malt-wine base (moutwijn) that gives it a softer, grainier mouthfeel than gin.

## How is jenever different from gin? Jenever is made with a higher proportion of maltwine and is typically distilled at a lower strength, producing a fuller, smoother spirit. Gin is distilled neutral alcohol with botanical flavouring and is usually drier and lighter on the palate.

## What is a proeflokaal? A proeflokaal is a traditional Dutch tasting house where small samples of jenever and other spirits are served. Many proeflokalen, such as those featured on this list, have operated for over a century.

## When is the best time to visit these bars? Most Amsterdam proeflokalen open in the late afternoon. Weekday evenings tend to be quieter; weekends are busier, especially in the city centre.

## Do these bars offer food? Many serve traditional Dutch bar snacks (bitterballen, kaas, roggebrood) alongside spirit flights, though menus vary by venue.