Bols is a brand that offers a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including vodkas, gins, genevers, and liqueurs. Their products have a rich history, dating back to 1575, making Bols claim to be the oldest distillery brand in the world. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can provide a detailed explanation of the various types of alcohol offered by Bols.
Vodkas: Bols offers a selection of vodkas that are known for their smoothness and versatility. Vodka is a distilled spirit made from fermented grains or potatoes. Bols vodkas are crafted using high-quality ingredients and undergo a meticulous distillation process to ensure a clean and pure taste. They can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails.
Gins: Bols also produces a range of gins, which are known for their botanical flavors. Gin is a spirit that gets its predominant flavor from juniper berries, along with other botanicals such as coriander, citrus peel, and spices. Bols gins are carefully crafted to achieve a balance of these flavors, resulting in a refreshing and aromatic drink. Whether enjoyed in a classic gin and tonic or used as a base for creative cocktails, Bols gins offer a delightful experience.
Genevers: One unique product in the Bols lineup is genever. Genever is a traditional Dutch spirit that predates gin and is considered the precursor to it. It is made from a blend of malt wine, which is essentially a distilled grain mash, and juniper berries. Bols genevers are crafted using traditional methods and have a distinct malty character combined with the botanical flavors of juniper and other herbs. Genever can be enjoyed neat, but it also adds depth and complexity to cocktails.
Liqueurs: Bols is also well-known for its extensive range of liqueurs. These are sweetened spirits that are infused with various flavors such as fruits, herbs, spices, or nuts. Bols liqueurs are made using natural ingredients and have a wide range of flavors to cater to different preferences. From classic liqueurs like triple sec and crème de cassis to more unique offerings like watermelon, coffee, or chocolate, Bols has a liqueur for every occasion. These liqueurs can be sipped neat, used as a flavoring in cocktails, or incorporated into desserts.
Personal Experience: As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to explore the offerings of Bols firsthand. I have found their vodkas to be exceptionally smooth and versatile, making them suitable for both sipping and mixing in cocktails. The gins have impressed me with their well-balanced botanical flavors, and they work wonderfully in classic gin-based cocktails like martinis or negronis. Genever, with its malty character, has been a unique and enjoyable experience, especially when used as a base in traditional Dutch cocktails. Lastly, the wide range of liqueurs offered by Bols never fails to amaze me. I have used their liqueurs to add depth and complexity to my cocktails, as well as to create delicious dessert pairings.
Bols offers a diverse range of high-quality alcohol, including vodkas, gins, genevers, and liqueurs. Each type of alcohol has its unique characteristics and flavors, catering to different tastes and preferences. Whether you prefer a smooth vodka, a botanical gin, a malty genever, or a sweet liqueur, Bols has something to offer.