THE F1RST
MASTERS

The creation of Europe's premier whisky called for an unprecedented level of cooperation. To bring together two world-renowned European Master Distillers:
Patrick VAN ZUIDAM and Etienne BOUILLON, one Dutch, the other Belgian.

Their respective mastery of rye and malt, their mutual respect and great friendship have enabled them to transform the world of whisky in a singular way.

They have taken up the challenge of surpassing themselves together to take whisky enthusiasts into a new dimension.

ETIENNE BOUILLON

A disciple of Jim Mac Ewan, 20 years ago he created the first Belgian whisky (the "au hibou" brand). An unconditional devotee of terroir, he distills only malted barley.

His products alone have won over 100 gold medals at the Mondial des Spiritueux, Monde Sélection and World Whisky Awards! Already voted "Best Whisky in Europe" three times, his consecration comes in 2023 with the ranking of "5th Best Whisky in the World" in the Whisky Bible of Jim MURRAY.

Belgium

A SMALL COUNTRY WITH A BIG HEART AND BIG FLAVORS

The Belgians, known for their conviviality and sometimes absurd sense of humor, are great lovers of good things: crispy waffles, golden French fries and melting pralines. They've perfected the art of beer, with over 1,500 varieties, from mystical Trappists to innovative craft beers.

And let's not forget spirits, where genever, the ancestor of gin, takes pride of place. In Belgium, every meal is a feast, and every feast is a new opportunity to taste.

PATRICK VAN ZUIDAM

He created his first whisky in 1996, and still processes all his distillates in the traditional way in his own family-run business, one of the few remaining independents in the Netherlands.

His favorite raw material is rye. He has won the world title of "Best Rye Whisky" three years running (2021-2022-2023), and has twice been voted "Best Distiller of the Year" at the World Whisky Awards.

NETHERLANDS

A COUNTRY OF CONQUERERS AND CREATIVES

The Netherlands, land of windmills and colorful tulips, is much more than a postcard cliché.

When it comes to traditions, the Netherlands is no exception: the King's festivals, Gouda cheese markets and flower parades are highlights of local life. Culinary delights include stroopwafels (waffles in syrup) and raw herring, which can be eaten upside down.

Local spirits are treasures to be discovered, revealing the soul of a country that loves to surprise.