Intrigued by distilling history? The Preussische Spirituosen Manufaktur, or PSM, is calling. This isn’t just any distillery. It’s a journey back to 1874, a time when Prussian efficiency met the art of spirit making.
Founded by order of the Prussian cabinet, PSM began as a research and training hub. Its mission was to elevate alcohol production. Today, it’s the only place in Germany where you can earn a Masters in Distillery. Think of it a place where tradition and education blend.
The distillery is more than a historic site. It’s a unique blend of distillery, school, shop, and attraction. Guided tours reveal its secrets. Tastings tantalize the senses.
Julian Machinek, a PSM apprentice, is passionate about the craft. He stands amidst a vast collection of botanicals. Herbs, spices, roots, and rinds fill the room. PSM has long been a leader in German distilling. The German distiller’s bible features photos taken right here. According to Julian, every distiller once came from this spot.
Step inside and you will find bubbling concoctions. Julian checks the proof on a fresh batch. A cabinet holds over 200 “drogen duftorgel.” These are leaves, herbs, spices, and seeds for maceration. Every process happens here. From extracts to bottling, each stage is done by hand. PSM sources nothing from outside suppliers.
A copper still from 1924 stands proudly. PSM uses over a century of experience. Julian highlights the 1952 vacuum distiller. It preserves delicate flavors with its low boiling point. Nearby, a table displays bottles of macerations. Rosehip, buffalo grass, and orange blossom fill the air with scents.
PSM offers a dizzying range of spirits. Tinctures and elixirs evoke an apothecary’s charm. They create their own gins, vodkas, and liqueurs. PSM also collaborates with the Michelberger Hotel. Their joint venture produces herbal schnapps. “Michelberger Forest” is mellow and warm. “Michelberger Mountain” is crisp and refreshing.
But that’s not all. PSM can recreate lost blends. A customer brought in an old bottle. He asked PSM to rebuild it. He couldn’t live without it. The result was so good, they added it to their line.
Descend to the lower level and you will find earthenware casks. Spirits “rest” here for months. It’s a “finding” process, Julian explains. Unlike wooden casks, these don’t add flavor. The spirits find harmony within. The Adler gin, made since 1874, rests for eight months. Then it is bottled, sealed, and labeled.
Finally, the tour ends at the bar. Shelves display the PSM range. Taste vodka, gin, and liqueurs like galangal and quince. Sample “tummy bitters” and gold-flecked spice liqueur from the 17th century. The distillery also displays historical bottles. They found them in the basement.
For spirit lovers, the Preussische Spirituosen Manufaktur is more than a distillery. It’s a living museum. Experience PSM through its products or tours. You’ll discover a superiority born of time and expertise.