More Than Beer: The Artisanal Gin of Rugenbräu AG

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​Best known for its rich brewing heritage, Rugenbräu AG is far more than a traditional beer producer. Nestled in the heart of the Bernese Oberland, the company has expanded its passion for craft beverages into the world of premium gin through the Rugen Distillery.
 
One of the distillery’s most intriguing techniques involves letting the gin flow over rock crystal—a clear, colourless form of quartz—at the final stage of distillation. While subtle, this natural filtration process is believed to add clarity and a refined finish to the spirit. But the story doesn't end there.
 
What truly sets Rugen Distillery apart is where the gin is matured: in barrels stored in dramatic, atmospheric locations such as the Jungfraujoch, the bottom of Lake Hinterstocken, and the cellars beneath Mount Rugen. Each location contributes a sense of place—and mystery—to the final product, making every bottle part of a larger story.
Rugen currently offers three unique gin expressions, each deeply rooted in the Swiss landscape and crafted with care:
 
The Original Gin 
Rugen’s flagship gin is a tribute to local tradition. Dominated by juniper, it’s carefully balanced with bittersweet alpine herbs and fresh citrus, evoking the crisp, clean air of the surrounding mountains.
 
Red Gin – With Aronia Berry
A bold expression enhanced by the Aronia berry, often celebrated as a superfood. Used whole, dried, and granulated, the berry lends a subtle bitterness and rich, woody complexity. The berries are sourced from organic farms operated by a socially committed institution in Bern, reinforcing the brand’s connection to community and sustainability.
 
Blue Gin – Butterfly Pea Blossom
Inspired by the colour-changing magic of Blue Chai tea, this gin incorporates dried Clitoria ternatea blossoms, which give it a striking indigo hue. Add a splash of tonic, and the gin transforms into a vibrant violet, reminiscent of summer wildflowers on alpine meadows—a stunning twist for any cocktail.
 
New: Zero-Alcohol Gin
Keeping pace with growing demand for alcohol-free options, Rugenbräu AG has recently invested in an advanced dealcoholisation plant, allowing it to create its new “Zero” Gin. This innovation delivers full flavour with no alcohol however preserving the essence of the gin’s botanicals.
Beyond beverages, Rugenbräu is committed to preserving the craft. The company actively trains the next generation of brewers and beverage technologists, as part of Switzerland’s specialized food technology field. With only a handful of apprentices graduating each year, Rugenbräu plays a key role in sustaining traditional brewing knowledge and nurturing future talent.
 
From mountain-aged barrels to botanical storytelling, Rugenbräu AG continues to innovate while staying true to its alpine roots—crafting not just drinks, but experiences.
 
You can book a tour here: https://www.rugenbraeu.ch/en/rundgaenge/