Jenever Museum

An entire museum dedicated to the history and - most importantly - the sampling of Jenever, a type of Dutch gin.

Get a true taste of the Low Countries as you make your way through Hasselt’s Jenever Museum. What is jenever? Jenever is a special type of gin from Belgium and the Netherlands. It’s known as a gin, but fans describe it more as a cross between gin and whiskey. The drink is taken as a shot mostly or on the rocks.

Prepare to sample a niche part of Belgian history, as well as the tipple itself. Wander through the museum and discover the interesting story behind the distilled drink. Originally a distillery, the museum guides you through a detailed history of jenever: it's ingredients, the brewing process, its marketing and distribution and the drink’s influence on Belgian society and vice versa.

Taking in heaps of interesting information would make anyone thirsty. So, on to the really fun part! The museum has its own tasting bar. It's a great place to sample some local product or a good go-to for a nice chat with friends. The bar, open during museum hours, is accessible without a museum ticket. Expect to come back multiple times if you want to make your way through their range of 100 gins. Enjoy, sample, drink and repeat.

• Hasselt is known throughout Europe for its association with the drink, celebrating the annual Jenever Festival on the 3rd weekend in October. So, this is the perfect place to try it.
• Visiting as a group? Get a guided tour and have an expert take you through the museum or on a ‘Jenever Walk’ to explore Hasselt’s role as an important centre of gin production.
• Want even more gin-based fun? The museum hosts various jenever themed workshops that you can book for you and a group of friends to enjoy. Workshops have included: genever and chocolate tasting, ‘Gin Foodies’ and a make your own gin experience. The perfect choice for any lover of gin and gastronomy. Check out the website for more details, prices vary.
• Jenever is a very common Christmas drink; it will be served as a shot at your favorite Christmas market in the region. They can have over hundreds of flavors ranging from sweet to the original flavor. Some popular flavoured ones include vanilla, apple, and cherry; basically ask for any type of fruit or recommendation!