Rutte Launches Its New Paradyswyn Genever

By Chilled Magazine

In 1872, Dordrecht near Rotterdam was a lively town and most certainly an epicentre of international goods and trade.

Tingling spices, exotic fruits and other fresh products from around the globe found their way to the otherwise sleepy streets of Holland. Genever was already a main staple at that time, and Simon Rutte’s was treasured as the finest of them all. And it still is today with Myriam Hendrickx, the eighth-generation master distiller, continuing the legacy respectfully and attentively. Building on rich heritage and century-old recollection, Rutte constantly rediscovers its own path, combing through old books filled with recipes and the traditional craftsmanship of its founders. Yet, there’s an ever-evolving curiosity and ambition to not only stay true to the past, but also confidently look ahead and shape the future.

Long before “craft” became a thing, Rutte was always just that—small batch, artisanal production and 100 percent hands-on. Despite operating the smallest distillery in Holland, Hendrickx has become a leading figure and spokesperson for Dutch genever on a global level, raising this historical category to new heights of international awareness. Rutte today is a frontrunner in distilling genever, the ancestor of gin, as well as a modern interpretation of the juniper delight itself.

Rutte at BCB

Rutte at BCB

Offering a totally different perspective on traditional genever, Rutte Paradyswyn shows the tremendous skill and botanical expertise of Hendrickx, refining a historic recipe of John Rutte’s and making it relevant and available to today’s epicures. Once again, the innovative interpretation of the distinct Dutch spirit most elegantly combines longstanding tradition with a modern twist, bridging the old and new, introducing a unknown treasure of liquid indulgence.

Paradyswyn is based on 100 percent malt genever that has been gently matured in American oak barrels for four to eight years in the charming surroundings and moderate climate of Dordrecht. Further elevated by blending in unusual fruit distillates and macerates containing cherry, apple and blackcurrant, the characteristics of traditional genever are taken to a whole new level, resulting in a uniquely complex product.

Rutte Paradyswyn Genever, bottle on white

Rutte Paradyswyn Genever

On the nose, you’ll find hints of woody, almost earthy spiciness with luscious, mellow tones of slow maturation and malted grain. Underneath, a sensation of dark, ripe berries—along with morello and maraschino cherries—offers a fruit-laden twist. The finish is complex and pleasant with flavors of malt and dark salted caramel. Paradyswyn closes a gap between classical botanical spirits, crisp fresh distillates highlighted by juniper and coriander, and a mature dark sipping spirit.

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