A recent find at my local BioPlanet* in Mechelen was the Radermacher Organic Gin. With it’s distinctive clear bottle with subtle touches of blue, this bottle “pops” out from the shelf.  Sold in a 70cl bottle, it is a handy size for drinking at home or whilst relaxing at a summer picnic.  With 43% vol alcohol, this Gin does not differ from many of the mainstream Gins (Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, London Gin).

So who distills this Gin?

Founded in 1836, Radermacher Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in Belgium. The distillery is located in Raeren,** Liege, east of Belgium where German is predominately spoken. The village is very quaint and has a wealth of history.  During the past 175 years, the secrets of Radermacher distillation have been handed down from generation to generation.

Radermacher Distillery take pride in selecting the best ingredients (in this instance Organic) for their products at the same time combining traditional distilling methods which meet modern day production.

The 1836 Bio Gin, the first certified organic Belgian gin, contains an infusion of 11 fruits, roots, plants and an organic grain distillate.  1836 is reknown as a pure concentration of aroma.

Radermacher also manufacture a wide range of other products (including an Organic Vodka), Whisky (10 years, Single Malt, Single Cask) and liqueuers.

*BioPlanet is a chain of Organic Supermarkets located within Belgium.  They provide a wide range of organic, bio products, often in bulk quantities (ie a pack of 2, 6, 12 or a case of 24 drinks for example).  With a wide selection of dry goods, beautiful fresh produce, an amazing selection of all kinds of milk (almond, quiona, coconut, cows, goats, sheeps), fresh meats and cheeses it is a great place to shop! Oh, must not forget the bread selection – have found a beautiful round loaf that reminds me of my Grandmothers bread.

Pay day is around the corner so I am tempted to purchase a bottle – of course to sample and shall happily post feedback.

** Raren website is in Dutch, German and French only.