Bornholms Valsemølle

“Is that a real windmill?” a child’s voice broke the gentle hum of the milling machinery. Indeed, before us stands the Bornholms Valsemolle, a testament to Bornholm’s agricultural heritage. Bornholms Valsemolle isn’t just a picturesque landmark. It’s a living, breathing piece of history, still grinding grain into flour, just as it has for generations. Founded in 1920 by Emil Jespersen, Bornholms Valsemolle began its life intertwined with a much older structure. The original Dutch smock windmill, erected in 1867, still proudly stands watch over the site. It serves as a silent witness to the evolution of milling technology. While the old windmill performed its last grinding in 1950, its legacy continues. The mill’s operations moved to modern facilities built alongside in 1920. These buildings house both new and older machinery, carefully chosen to preserve the gentle art of milling. Bornholms Valsemolle prioritizes quality over quantity. The mill uses slow-turning roller mills with a large roller length. This method minimizes heat buildup, protecting the delicate gluten structures of the flour. The Jespersen family, now in its fourth generation, remains dedicated to the craft. They maintain a strong connection to the island’s agricultural community. The grain, primarily sourced from select Bornholm farmers, undergoes rigorous quality checks. This ensures that only the finest grains are transformed into the high-quality flours that Bornholms Valsemolle is known for. The mill produces both organic and conventional flours, ground using rollers or stone mills. They work with a wide variety of grains, from traditional Danish wheat and rye to more exotic varieties like spelt, durum, emmer, and Øland wheat. Bornholms Valsemolle also embraces innovation. They continuously develop new products, responding to the evolving needs of bakers and consumers alike. They even revived the cultivation of Øland wheat, an ancient grain rediscovered on the Swedish island of its namesake. The mill now receives about 200 tons of this high-protein grain, grown right here on Bornholm. So, as you admire the iconic windmill against the Bornholm sky, remember that Bornholms Valsemolle is more than just a pretty picture. It’s a thriving business, a family legacy, and a symbol of Bornholm’s enduring commitment to quality and tradition.