Van Toor Distillery

The Netherlands

"Schelvispekel remains a cornerstone of the business to this day."

Classic Dutch distillery

Van Toor Distillery is one of the oldest operating distilleries in the Netherlands. Located in the city of Vlaardingen, just west of Rotterdam, this authentic Dutch craft distillery has been producing traditional spirits since 1883. In 2008, the distillery celebrated its 125th anniversary and received the prestigious title of Purveyor to the Royal Household, a mark of excellence and tradition in the Netherlands.

Van Toor Distillery is renowned for its range of traditional Dutch spirits, including beloved classics like Boerenjongens, Bruidstranen, Advocaat, Kandeel, and Schelvispekel. The latter, a historic fisherman’s drink, has become the distillery’s signature product and remains a cornerstone of the business to this day.

Leo Fontijne and the revival of Van Toor Distillery

The story of Van Toor Distillery begins with Hendrik van Toor, who opened a traditional tapperij (pub) on the historic market square in the old town of Vlaardingen, a city known for its charming heritage buildings. While Hendrik’s wife took over the daily running of the pub, he turned his focus to distilling spirits.

For over four generations, the Van Toor family distillery remained a proud family business. But after more than a century of craftsmanship, there was no successor to continue the legacy within the family. 

When Leo Fontijne learned that the Van Toor family distillery had no successor, he made a bold decision, leaving behind a well-paid job to preserve a piece of Dutch heritage. Despite concerns from the family, who saw little future for a traditional Dutch distillery, Leo was determined to keep the legacy alive.

Since 2000, Leo has been the proud owner of Van Toor Distillery, continuing the craft of distilling in the same authentic, old-fashioned way. As one of the few remaining distillers committed to traditional methods, he also works tirelessly to promote these heritage spirits among Dutch liquor retailers, aiming to bring classic products like Schelvispekel and Advocaat back to the forefront.

Where does Schelvispekel Van Toor originate?

The origins of Schelvispekel, a traditional Dutch fisherman’s drink, date back to the time of the VOC (Dutch East India Company). During this era, fishermen from Vlaardingen would trade freshly caught herring for exotic spices brought in by VOC ships. Using these spices, they created their own spirit, a unique blend made without any artificial additives, fragrances, or flavorings.

Schelvispekel is still produced in this pure, traditional way today, staying true to its centuries-old recipe. It stands as one of the oldest and most authentic Dutch spirits.

Legend has it that Schelvispekel was one of David Bowie’s favorite spirits. In 1974, while appearing on the popular Dutch tv-show TopPop, Bowie received an award and raised a glass of Van Toor Schelvispekel to celebrate the occasion.

Vlaardingen harbor

The harbor of Vlaardingen once served as the home port for the Netherlands' renowned herring fishing fleet. For generations, fishermen set out from here to catch herring, cod, and anchovy, making Vlaardingen a central hub in Dutch maritime history.

Although commercial fishing is no longer active in the area, Vlaardingen's rich fishing heritage is still clearly visible around the historic harbors. From old warehouses to restored boats and maritime monuments, the city preserves its connection to its fishing roots.

The market square in Vlaardingen, where the original Van Toor pub once stood, is surrounded by historic buildings. Among them are the old town hall and the Great Church (Grote Kerk), which dates back to 1744. Historical records show that as early as the Middle Ages, a smaller church already stood on this site.

A visit to Vlaardingen is easily combined with a day trip from Rotterdam and nearby Schiedam, famously known as the genever capital of the Netherlands. Together, these cities offer a rich journey through Dutch distilling, fishing, and architectural history, perfect for culture and craft spirit lovers alike.

Updated: 24-05-2025