TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best German Spirit Types
Himbeergeist is a German raspberry spirit that is made by macerating fresh raspberries in neutral alcohol. No artificial flavorings or colorings are added, and the infusion is then distilled before it is bottled. Himbeergeist has to have a minimum of 40% ABV.
It results in a clear and colorless spirit that displays clean raspberry aromas. The drink should be served well-chilled, and it is best enjoyed slowly sipped. It is recommended to enjoy it as a digestif. Optionally, it can be mixed with coffee or used in cocktails, and it goes exceptionally well with sparkling wines.
Marillenschnaps is a type of fruit brandy that is distilled from apricots. The drink is traditionally associated with Wachau—a region known for apricot production—though it is also produced in other Austrian and German regions.
High-quality apricot brandy should be double-distilled from fresh apricot mash to create a clear and potent spirit with an alcohol content that typically goes around 40% ABV. This brandy will display apricot and floral aromas with a warming, fruity, and long aftertaste.
Poire Williams is a type of eau-de-vie (fruit brandy) that is distilled from fermented Williams pears. The production of this clear and colorless spirit is mostly associated with France, Switzerland, and Germany. The drink is often sold with a whole pear inside the bottle—this is achieved by attaching the bottle to a branch with a small pear.
The fruit is tucked inside and then allowed to grow inside the bottle. When it’s ripe, the fruit is cut off, and the distilled spirit is then poured inside. This brandy is usually of high quality, with clean and crisp flavor and ripe pear aromas.
VARIATIONS OF Poire Williams
Asbach Uralt is a German brandy that was first distilled in 1892 by Hugo Asbach, a Cologne native. With the knowledge he gained at various French distilleries, Asbach distilled his first batch of brandy and opened a company in Rüdesheim am Rhein.
He initially labeled his brandy as Rüdesheim Cognac, but after the Treaty of Versailles, which stipulated that only French products can be named Cognac, Asbach coined the term Weinbrand (wine brandy) and gave his product its current name. Aged in Limousin and German oak, classic Asbach Uralt is an amber-colored brandy that is smooth and warming, with subtle sweetness and peppery nuances that are accompanied by aromas and flavors reminiscent of honey, vanilla, caramel, plums, nuts, chocolate, and coffee.
This clear, colorless fruit brandy is double-distilled from the fermented cherry mash. Because it was originally produced with sour morello cherries, it is believed that it first appeared in Schwarzwald, Germany, where the morello cherries were traditionally cultivated.
The drink is mainly produced in Germany, Austria, Alsace, and Switzerland, with various, local cherry varieties. Because cherry pits are also crushed in the process, kirschwasser is characterized by its cherry notes, pungent flavor, and mild bitter-sweet finish.
VARIATIONS OF Kirschwasser
Korn is a German grain spirit that is traditionally distilled from fermented mash of wheat, rye, buckwheat, barley or oats. This strong colorless drink is never sweetened or flavored, and it has to have a minimum of 32% ABV, but if the alcohol content is higher than 37.5% the drink is named Kornbrand.
It is believed that the production of Korn started in the 15th century, and although it is enjoyed throughout the country, it is especially popular in the northern parts of Germany. The drink is usually low-priced, but oak-aging may provide for more complex and better-quality expressions.
Often classified as a type of gin, Steinhäger is a juniper-flavored spirit produced in Westaphalian Steinhagen municipality. It is produced from grain spirit, juniper berries, and wacholderlutter—fermented mash made from juniper berries.
This spirit is clear and colorless and has a subtle juniper flavor. The minimum alcohol content is 30% ABV, but it is mainly bottled at 38% ABV, as then it can be classified as gin. Traditionally, Steinhäger is bottled in brown stoneware bottles known as a Kruke or Betonbuddel, but other materials can also be used.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best German Spirit Producers
St. Kilian Distillers is a German single malt whisky distillery founded in 2012 in Rüdenau, Bavaria. Located in a former textile factory, the distillery is named after St. Kilian, an Irish-Scottish missionary who worked in Würzburg. St. Kilian Distillers is renowned for its innovation and diverse product range, including special editions created in collaboration with famous personalities and musical bands.
Their "White Dog" won the award for the best in the world in 2018.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024, 2023, 2022
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2023
BEST St. Kilian Distillers Spirits
Agnes Bernrieder GmbH Getränkevertrieb is a family-owned company established in 1983, specializing in the distribution of beverages. The company is headquartered at Münchener Straße 30, 85667 Oberpframmern, Germany. Operating under the BERNRIEDER GETRÄNKE brand, it offers a wide range of high-quality products, including non-alcoholic beverages, wines, champagnes, and spirits.
In addition to retail sales, BERNRIEDER GETRÄNKE provides supplementary services such as beverage delivery, event and celebration services, and trade fair support, making it a standout in the beverage distribution sector. The company is also the proud producer of KAIZA 5 Gin, a premium gin inspired by the free-spirited essence of South Africa.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2024, 2022
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
BEST Kaiza 5 Spirits
AWARDS
SFWSC - San Francisco World Spirits Competition - Double Gold
2024
The name "Bene Gin" is inspired by Benedict of Nursia, the founder of the Benedictine Order, whose year of birth, 480 AD, is reflected in the alcohol percentage of this gin. The brand's logo resembles the Benedictine medal, while the copper color, a signature of the brand, pays homage to Saint Benedict as the patron saint of engravers.
Bene Gin is produced by HIS Hamburgische Gesellschaft für Investitionen und Spirituosen mbH, based in Hamburg, Germany. Known for its premium quality and unique character, Bene Gin is crafted using carefully selected botanicals that deliver a harmonious balance of juniper, citrus, and subtle spice notes.
JJ's Manöverschluck is a premium spirit brand from Hamburg, Germany, crafted by sailors for sailors and maritime enthusiasts. The brand offers a range of award-winning spirits, including rums sourced from Jamaica, Panama, Antigua, the Dominican Republic, and Venezuela, as well as Tennessee bourbon and whiskey.
Each variant is uniquely flavored: the Jamaica rum is enhanced with sun-ripened tangerines and butterscotch, while the Panama & Antigua blend features Bourbon vanilla and a hint of sea salt. The concept of JJ's Manöverschluck was born during a sailing trip, aiming to create a spirit that captures the essence of maritime adventures.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2024
BEST JJs Manöverschluck Spirits
Franz Fies Schwarzwälder Edelobstbrennerei, founded in 1948 by Franz and Elise Fies, is a family-owned distillery located in Oberkirch-Ringelbach, in the heart of the sun-kissed Ortenau region of Germany's Black Forest. The distillery specializes in crafting premium fruit brandies and liqueurs, utilizing traditional methods to transform locally sourced fruits into high-quality spirits.
Their product range includes the "Original Fies" line of fruit brandies, the "CHRONUM" series, and the "MOMENTUM" collection, each offering unique flavor profiles that reflect the rich heritage of the Black Forest. Committed to excellence, the distillery is certified according to the International Food Standard (IFS), ensuring that each bottle meets rigorous quality standards.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
European Spirits Challenge - Silver
2023
BEST Franz Fies Schwarzwälder Edelobstbrennerei Spirits
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2024
World's Best Speciality Brandy - Winner
2022
BEST Artwerk Spirits
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold
2023, 2020, 2019
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2020
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whiskey Gold Trophy
2020
BEST UNIQUE LIQUIDS GmbH Spirits
AWARDS
The DB & SB Autumn Blind Tasting - Gold
2023
The Liqueur Masters - Gold
2023
BEST St Kilian Distillers Spirits
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Best German Spirits
Kaiza 5 Gin is a premium gin inspired by the free-spirited essence of South Africa, designed to blend exotic aromas with the traditional character of gin. This carefully distilled gin is crafted in small batches to ensure superior quality and consistent flavor.
Its profile features a perfect harmony of classic botanicals like juniper and coriander, combined with vibrant citrus notes and exotic plants inspired by African flora. With an alcohol content of 43%, it comes in an elegant 500 ml bottle that reflects the sophistication of the brand.
AWARDS
World Gin Awards - Country Winner
2024, 2022
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2020
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Whiskey Gold Trophy
2020
AWARDS
World's Best Apple Brandy - Winner
2022, 2021
Brennerei Ziegler's Waldhimbeer Geist is a premium spirit crafted from wild raspberries harvested near Lake Balaton in Hungary. This 43% ABV spirit offers a rich, fruity aroma and a smooth, long-lasting finish, capturing the essence of ripe raspberries.
It's best enjoyed neat at a serving temperature of 16-18°C to fully appreciate its aromatic profile.
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2024
Bene Gin is a premium German gin that returns to the roots of this spirit, highlighting dominant juniper notes complemented by fresh citrus aromas. What makes it unique is the exceptional blend of pear, basil, cardamom, galangal, and rose petals, which impart subtle floral and exotic spice nuances.
With an alcohol content of 48%, this gin delivers a rich and complex tasting experience. It is perfect for classic cocktails like the "Bene & Tonic" or "Benetini," but it can also be enjoyed neat to fully appreciate its intricate flavors.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
JJ's Manöverschluck Panama & Antigua is a premium sailor's spirit that blends soft Panama rum with a touch of rum from Antigua, the sailor's paradise. Enhanced with real Bourbon vanilla and a pinch of sea salt, it offers complex flavor notes of vanilla, hazelnut, and chocolate.
Bottled at 40% ABV, this spirit is ideal for maritime enthusiasts and makes a thoughtful gift for sailors. The vibrant green bottle is designed to resemble a starboard buoy, featuring a logo that abstractly represents a sailing maneuver. The cork pays homage to classic wooden boats, and the water-resistant cotton label adds a nautical touch.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2024
AWARDS
IWSC- International wine & spirit competition - Spirit Gold Outstanding
2023
Momentum Bühler Zwetschgenbrand is a premium plum brandy produced by Franz Fies Schwarzwälder Edelobstbrennerei. Crafted from the rare Bühler Frühzwetschge plums, known for their distinctive sweet and sour flavor, this brandy undergoes an 8-year maturation in stoneware vessels, followed by aging in select Baden red wine barrique barrels.
This meticulous process imparts a rich and complex character to the spirit. Bottled at 44% ABV, it is best enjoyed neat at a serving temperature of 14-16°C to fully appreciate its nuanced flavors.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
St. Kilian PEATED – Rich & Smoky is a single malt whisky crafted by St. Kilian Distillers, blending traditional Scottish distillation methods with German craftsmanship. Made from barley with a high peat content (54 ppm) sourced from the Scottish Highlands, it boasts a pronounced smoky character.
The whisky matures in a mix of 70% ex-bourbon barrels and 30% sherry casks, including Pedro Ximénez and Oloroso, which enhance its complexity and depth. This whisky presents a golden hue and a rich aroma featuring roasted apricots, juicy pears, and ripe bananas, complemented by sweet vanilla, lime, and subtle mint, all enveloped in gentle peat smoke with ashy tones.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
St. Kilian Distillers, in collaboration with the German heavy metal band Grave Digger, presents the "Fields of Blood" Single Malt Whisky. This heavily peated whisky (54 ppm) is matured in a combination of ex-red wine, ex-bourbon, and ex-ruby port casks, resulting in a creamy, sweet, and fruity profile with notes of red berry compote and grapes.
Wonderfully creamy-sweet and fruity with vanilla, red berry compote, and juicy grapes, accompanied by warm oak spice with fine tannins, all enveloped in gentle peat smoke. Mild peat smoke with fruity hints of red berries, ripe peaches, and sweet grapes.
AWARDS
European Spirits Challenge - Gold
2023
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