History

Brennerei Ziegler is located in Freudenberg am Main and builds on a long distillation tradition. According to their site, they began as a brewery with distilling rights, and their distillates have a history dating back to 1865. The company describes itself as passionate people who combine tradition and progress at every stage—from harvest to bottle labeling. Emphasis is placed on the importance of craftsmanship and on being as good as they are today by continually striving for better methods. The slogan and tone emphasize a proud 'We’re burning. Since 1865.' identity and a respect for Heimat (Freudenberg) and Alte Zwetschge fruit brandy as an alchemical detail that gives Freud its unique character.

Production and craftsmanship

Brennerei Ziegler focuses on distillation and fruit brandies as central products alongside their whisky. Their approach is described as high art in distillation, where all parts—from harvest of fruit to labeling—involve experienced people and traditional craftsmanship, while they also welcome progressive innovation. Special projects are highlighted: - Freudenberger Wildwiesen Cuvee: a fruit brandy blend from mowed fallow meadows (Elstar, Gute Luise, Mollebusch, etc.) with donations: five euros from each bottle goes directly to the Ziegler Wild Meadow Fund. - Zeitgeist Flora and Zeitgeist Flora Zero (wild meadow aperitifs): The world's first non-alcoholic wild meadow aperitif with cherry, apple blossom and rapeseed flower, and a non-alcoholic variant (Zeitgeist Flora Zero). - Sarto Tresterbrand (tresterbrand collaboration with Markus Schneider): a specialty between Ziegler and Markus Schneider, aged in oak and chestnut casks, with a citrus finish.

Whisky Series

Ziegler produces two whisky variants under the Freud name, both described as malt whiskies: - Freud Whiskey Distillers Cut: A malt whisky aged for at least five years in chestnut and ex-bourbon casks and finished in Ziegler Alte Zwetschge fruit brandy casks. Alcohol: 41.5% ABV. Tasting notes described as delicate, with nutty and sweet-fruity nuances; complex yet approachable, suitable as a digestif or in cocktails. - Freud Whiskey Distillers Decade: The bottling is described as longer and more complex: the first twelve months in Spessart oak and chestnut (Kastanie) casks, then nine years in noble bourbon casks, and finally finished in Alte Zwetschge fruit brandy casks. Alcohol: 41.5% ABV. The sensory notes range from dried fruits and dark chocolate to citrus notes and hints of wood. Both products are described as Malt Whisky (type).

These products illustrate Ziegler's approach to whisky as part of their broader portfolio of fruit brandies and spirits, and they are mentioned with a number of international prizes and recognitions for their various spirits and whiskies.

Experiences and collaborations

Beyond the core products, unique art and experiential projects are highlighted: - Freud Wolf Gin (3-drop collection): Three works by artist Clemens Wolf, each with a hand-signed and numbered bottle; 111 bottles per color (Yellow, Red, Blue). The collection is sold as bundles at special prices and highlights an artistic collaboration between Monopol and Ziegler. - Freud Wolf Gin 1st Drop, 2nd Drop, 3rd Drop, as well as bundles between them (e.g., 1 and 2 Bundle, and 1 and 3 Bundle) for specially priced packages. - Zeitgeist Flora and Zeitgeist Zero aperitifs: The world’s first non-alcoholic wild meadow aperitif and its non-alcoholic variant; different formats and flavor combinations, as well as nutrition and ingredient lists on product pages. - No.1 Wildkirsch, Alte Zwetschge, Williams, Waldhimbeer, Hazelnut and Freudenberger: a wide range of fruit brandies and spirits with detailed descriptions of ingredients and production methods, and many awards, contributing to an extensive Classics section.

Philosophy

Ziegler conveys a philosophy that Freud is not a copy or quote, but an original connection between Ziegler’s homeland and old fruit brandies. Emphasis is placed on combining old-time 'alchemical details' with modern whisky and spirits, and on staying true to a northern, German distilling culture while inviting progressive innovation and artistic collaborations into the portfolio. Their profile emphasizes authenticity, craftsmanship, and a commitment to preserving and expanding their place in the international spirits scene.

Summary of identity and pricing

Ziegler offers a range of products—from No.1 Wildkirsch (fruit brandy), Williams, Alte Zwetschge, Mirabelle, Waldhimbeer and Sarto Tresterbrand to exclusive Freud Whisky and Freud Wolf Gin collections, as well as Zeitgeist aperitifs and related accessories such as Riedel glassware and bundled sets. The focus is on a broad scope of fruit brandies and whiskies with a strong artistic and historic identity, with clear references to Alte Zwetschge, chestnut, and ex-bourbon casks in whisky production and an emphasis on sustainable and social initiatives through the Wild Meadow Fund.