What makes Dampfwerk spirits “German-style?

Dampfwerk follows traditional German processing & distilling methods using German copper stills, long fermentation cycles, and precision cuts. The focus is on fruit brandies, herbal liqueurs, gins & aquavits and botanical-forward spirits crafted with balance, purity, and structure. Are recipes are typically based on old traditional German recipes, some as old as 200-years.

Where are your spirits produced

Everything is produced at our family-owned distillery in St. Louis Park, Minnesota. We distill, blend, bottle, and label all products on-site, by hand. Check-in on us during the fruit processing season to see how twenty thousand pounds of pears turn into elegant pear brandy. Schedule your tour around it.

What fruits do you use for your brandies?

We primarily use fruit such as pear, plum, apple, cold-hard grapes and apricot sourced from family-owned growers in the Midwest and Pacific Northwest. Each fruit is washed, crushed, fermented and distilled separately to preserve its natural character. The key is to highlight the unique flavors of the fruit, specifically the elegant nuances of the different varieties.

Do you offer tours of the distillery?

Yes. Guided tours are available and include a behind-the-scenes look at our production floor, stills, barrel room, and tasting opportunities. Reservations are recommended. We split groups larger than 12 into multiple groups to encourage questions and engagement.

Are your spirits gluten-free?

Our fruit brandies, herbal liqueurs, whiskeys, and most botanical spirits contain no gluten ingredients. The distillation process completes removes gluten proteins (NCA), but individuals with sensitivities should consult their personal comfort level since the consumption of alcohol may aggravate any acute inflammation.

Can you host private events?

Yes. Our cocktail lounge and our private “Die Stube” can accommodate private tastings, corporate events, celebrations, and custom experiences. Visit the “Private Events” page to inquire about your interest and customize your event.

Do you release seasonal or limited-edition spirits?

We produce several seasonal releases, small-batch liqueurs, and experimental distillations each year. Sign up for our mailing list to be the first to hear about upcoming drops.

Do Germans have a tradition making Single Malt Whiskey ?

Not exactly, but they have been distilling grain spirits for centuries. Germany’s long history with Korn; a clean, rye, barley and/or wheat based grain spirit, means the skill set has been there all along. And if you look at early American whiskey, especially Pennsylvania Dutch rye, many of those distillers were of German descent. Feel free to check the history of Jim Beam. So while “Single Malt Whiskey” as a category is newer in Germany, the people who make it have been working with grain, copper, and stubborn precision for a very long time. Check out Schlitzer, Schlüter, und Elmendorf

What is aquavit and what is its history in Northern Germany?
Aquavit is a traditional grain-based spirit flavored primarily with caraway, dill and the ubiquitous blend of ‘secret’ botanicals to make it unique. Northern Germany has been producing its own style for centuries, shaped by Hanseatic trade routes and a drinking culture built around hearty food, coastal weather, and a fondness for bold flavors. While Scandinavia gets most of the spotlight today, Northern German aquavit developed in parallel. German distillers leaned into caraway, fennel, and local herbs to create a crisp, savory profile that pairs naturally with smoked fish, rye bread, and cured meats. The region’s long tradition of herbal spirits, precise grain distillation, and old merchant connections helped make aquavit a fixture in North German homes, holidays, and taverns.