History

Berentsens Brygghus & Distillery's history begins with a bearded sea captain who had a plan. Many decades later, the company has grown from bottling 5,000 bottles a year to producing 5,000 bottles in 15 minutes. In the 19th century it was common to retire at 50, and Wilhelm Berentsen wished to create exciting soft drinks inspired by his travels. He founded Egersunds Mineralvandfabrik in 1895, which today is known as Berentsens Brygghus & Distillery.

Production and Development

It started small, with a coffee machine and modest production to make soft drinks. For a smaller producer, the goal was ambitious: 5,000 bottles per year. Capacity soon grew, and new equipment and facilities were needed. Today Berentsens Brygghus & Distillery offers a range of products and services, including Vardberg Whisky Hall and Smakssenter, which offer experiences with Norwegian whisky and other spirits.

Taste and Experience

Vardberg Whisky Hall and Smakssenter focus on knowledge transfer and experiences with a focus on the senses (raw materials, production methods and flavor categories).

Visits and Experiences

Guided tours and whisky tastings. The Whisky Tour at Berentsens Distillery gives the opportunity to see where Vardberg Whisky is produced and aged, and ends with a guided tasting from the Whisky Hall's warehouse.

Philosophy

The experience and communication are given high priority; Taste Centre has a strong focus on quality, communication and experience.