Maturation & Storage

A Gebirgsenzian doesn't go straight into the bottle after distillation. It rests first, in many houses in glass demijohns, stoneware, or stainless steel, allowing the aromas to settle and the rough edges of the fresh distillate to soften. The EU sets no minimum aging period for Enzian; the category only specifies a minimum strength of 37.5% ABV and prohibits added flavoring.

At the end, the alcohol content is reduced to drinking strength with water. This step is standard and permitted; many spirits leave the still at a considerably higher proof than they have in the glass.

Wood changes the spirit, softening it and giving it color. The Lantenhammer distillery in Hausham offers both clear spirits and barrel-aged versions in its range, meaning two styles coexist in the Schliersee region: the clear, unadulterated spirit and the one shaped by time in the barrel.

Anyone reading an age statement should know how it's meant. Under the Spirit Drinks Regulation, an age statement may refer only to the youngest component, and the maturation must have taken place under tax supervision. A spirit made of half old and half young distillate therefore only counts as being as old as the younger portion.

The same applies to Obstler. It usually rests in glass or stainless steel and stays clear. Where wood is involved, it turns golden. Both styles are intentional, but the label must clearly state which version is in the bottle.