"The British may be the most well-known for gin, but the Netherlands is the birthplace of its progenitor, genever, and there’s no better place to try it than a proeflokaal, or tasting room. Wynand Fockink's is great for those new to genever, or for people who just want to sample something else from their collection of bitters, liqueurs, and brandies. The staff will patiently guide you to the right choice no matter how busy it gets in the minuscule space, and you can join the crowd of locals lounging in the alley outside during summer. Grab a bottle in their shop next door to bring home, and pour one the next time you’re hankering for something to pair with your usual brewski." - Paolo Española