Weduwe Joustra

Weduwe Joustra is a distillery in Sneek, the Frisian water-sports town, that is closely tied to the Beerenburg, a dark herbal bitter that has become a symbol of Friesland. The firm has been producing the drink for generations, and its name, which means the widow Joustra, hints at the family business of the nineteenth century. The distillery is one of the best places in the province to understand the spirit and its role in Frisian culture.

Beerenburg is made by steeping herbs, spices and botanicals in a base spirit and letting the mixture mature. The result is a bitter-sweet, aromatic drink that is traditionally served as a small glass, often with a dash taken into coffee or served alongside a bowl of soup. Many Frisian families have their own habits around it, and it is commonly offered on cold days or as a welcome at celebrations. Because each producer uses its own secret recipe, tasting several brands is an enjoyable way to compare.

A visit usually involves a guided tour that explains the distilling process, the herbs and the history of the business, followed by a tasting. The tour is a good fit for adults interested in food and drink traditions, and the guides are generally happy to share stories about local customs. Booking in advance is wise, since tours may run at set times and group sizes can be limited. Check the current arrangements and prices on the distillery's website before travelling.

Sneek itself is a handsome small town surrounded by lakes, and it is known as a centre of Frisian sailing. The Waterpoort, a gate across the canal dating from 1613, is the town's most famous monument and stands only a short walk from the distillery. The Fries Scheepvaart Museum, which tells the story of shipping in the province, is nearby, and the annual Sneekweek brings thousands of sailors and visitors to the town in summer.

The distillery suits visitors who like to take home a regional product and to learn how it is made. Buy a bottle as a souvenir, and combine the visit with a wander through the old streets, a canal boat trip or a day cycling around the lakes. Remember to drink responsibly if you are driving or cycling afterwards. Visitors will also see how a Dutch family firm adapted over time, and Sneek’s other attractions are close at hand.