I’m originally from Australia but lived long term in the Netherlands, with dual nationality to both countries. 

It’s always a lovely surprise to stumble across unexpected connections between my two countries.

Yesterday I attended the reopening of the store De WijnKooper in the Zeeheldenkwartier in The Hague. 

This store has been a “slijterij” since 1897! It was recently taken over by new owners.

De WijnKooper voor al uw kwaliteitswijnen sinds 1897 en andere dranken zoals bier, likeur, whisky & meer. Kom langs in onze winkel in het Zeeheldenkwartier

At the opening was a stand by a Dutch distillery – Landward.

We had the chance to sample their unique drink “Viona” which not only has an interesting story, it’s a delicious drink. Most remarkably – it was presented with Australian Bundaberg Blood Orange!

We met the creators Hans and Anna Landwaart who insisted that this was the best mixer they had found for Viona – “a marriage made in heaven”.

Here is their story…

Viona – created during Corona lockdown

Landwaart Distillery is a family business based in South Holland.

We are Hans and Anna Landwaart and our idea to start producing our own alcohol originated during the lockdown.

Where many doors had to close during the lockdown, we thought in terms of possibilities and a new door opened for us. The door towards a unique alcoholic beverage, with properties that are particularly flavourful both pure and in mix combinations.

Because our product was ‘born’ during corona, it therefore bears the name ‘Viona’, a nice pun between VIrus and corONA.

Thus, during a difficult and, above all, bizarre period for everyone, something wonderful was created for us.

The craft drink Viona has an alcohol content of 40% and is composed of 14 subtle herbal blends. Viona is made with naturally fermented dried fruits, such as apricots and plums, among others. After several rounds of distillation, it is diluted with osmosis water from 92% to 40%.

The multiple distillation and filtering over gemstones, makes Viona smooth and unique in taste.

Using 100% natural ingredients has created a subtle flavour with a delicious aftertaste. The origin and flavour of the natural herbs makes each batch original.

Besides curiosity and the desire to finally be able to really start producing this already perfect end product Viona for us, we had to be very patient to get all things right. We have come a long way in particularly sad times.

When the door to our own distillery was then really allowed to open after lockdown, we are now able to produce and share our product with passion and above all with a lot of love.

A celebration, and now not only for us, but also for you, the customer.
Viona, for endless variety.

Cheers Hans & Anna

Find out more about Viona and their other product, La-Gin on their website (in Dutch): https://www.landwaart-distillery.nl

Distribution points are currently limited but watch this space for expansion as it’s a beautiful drink produced by a lovely couple!