Did You Overpay for a Jenever in Amsterdam?

Jenever (Dutch gin) is the Netherlands' original spirit, predating London gin by centuries. A shot at a traditional proeflokaal (tasting house) costs EUR 4–8, while tourist bars near Dam Square or Leidseplein charge EUR 6–14. The experience matters as much as the drink: traditional proeflokalen serve jenever in tulip-shaped glasses filled to the brim, and you lean down to sip without lifting the glass (called a 'kopstootje' when paired with beer).

Two styles exist: oude (old-style, maltier, smoother) and jonge (young, cleaner, more neutral). Despite the names, 'oude' doesn't mean aged—it refers to the original distillation style. First-timers should try oude jenever for the most distinctive flavour. The best proeflokalen include Wynand Fockink (since 1679) and Proeflokaal de Ooievaar, both offering tasting flights at EUR 12–18 for 3–4 pours.