Bols Genever 21 700ml

Lucas Bols has been distilling in Amsterdam since 1575, and genever is the house's oldest signature, a juniper led Dutch spirit built on malt wine rather than a neutral base. Genever 21 is a contemporary reading of that tradition, created with Amsterdam hospitality figure Casper Reinders for a lighter and more mixable style.

The recipe dials back the malt wine content and lifts the floral side of the botanical bill. It pours crystal clear, with soft malt and delicate flowers on the nose. The palate is lightly malty and gently sweet, juniper sitting alongside white pepper and a nutty pastry note, with a clean peppery lift keeping everything fresh.

The finish is silky and unhurried. This is a genever built for the bar, at home in a Martinez or an Old Fashioned variation, and equally happy in longer citrus and tonic serves.