Hooghoudt Distillery
Groningen
Hooghoudt Distillery is a historic producer of traditional Dutch spirits based in Groningen, Netherlands. Established in 1888 by Hero Jan Hooghoudt, originally a baker, the distillery has become well-known for crafting jenever (Dutch gin), vodka, and beerenburg, a herbal bitter. The company has evolved over more than a century, moving from its original city center location to a modern facility in Euvelgunne. Hooghoudt is recognized for preserving traditional distillation methods while embracing innovation. Its products reflect a rich heritage of Dutch spirit-making, deeply connected with the cultural history of the region. The distillery also maintains a tasting room and café in Amsterdam, enhancing its presence beyond Groningen. Despite its longstanding local significance, production is planned to move to Belgium following acquisition by La Martiniquaise in 2025, marking the end of an era for the Groningen site. Visitors to Hooghoudt can experience a blend of history, craftsmanship, and Dutch spirit culture.
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Tip: Visitors are advised to check Hooghoudt's official website or contact the distillery directly for current visiting hours and tour availability. Booking tours or tastings in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. The best time to visit is during spring and summer months when the weather in Groningen is pleasant. Discounts may be available for groups or educational visits. Note that the distillery's future relocation plans may affect tour offerings, so confirming details beforehand is prudent.
Interesting facts
- •Hooghoudt was founded by a baker, Hero Jan Hooghoudt, in 1888.
- •The distillery produces traditional Dutch spirits including jenever, vodka, and beerenburg.
- •Hooghoudt maintains a tasting room and café in Amsterdam on Reguliersgracht.
- •In 2025, the company was acquired by La Martiniquaise, which plans to move production to Belgium.
- •The distillery employs between 50 and 100 people and has an estimated revenue of 10 to 25 million euros.
History
Founded in 1888 by Hero Jan Hooghoudt, the distillery began as a small family business in Groningen's city center.
Over the decades, it expanded its product line to include jenever, vodka, and beerenburg, becoming an important regional producer.
In recent years, the distillery relocated to a modern facility in the Euvelgunne office park to accommodate growth.
In May 2025, Hooghoudt was acquired by La Martiniquaise, which announced plans to close the Groningen distillery by the end of that year and transfer production to Ghent, Belgium, marking a significant change in its long history.
Place Guide
Original Distillery Site1888
The original Hooghoudt distillery was located in Groningen's city center, where the company began its operations in 1888. Though production has moved, this site marks the birthplace of the brand.
Euvelgunne FacilityModern era
The modern distillery complex in the Euvelgunne office park represents Hooghoudt's growth and modernization efforts, housing current production until 2025.
Herberg Hooghoudt Tasting Room and Café
Located on Reguliersgracht in Amsterdam, this venue offers visitors the chance to sample Hooghoudt's products and enjoy a café atmosphere, extending the brand's reach beyond Groningen.
Contact
Phone: 050 542 0000
