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Distillery Cutura: Perfect craftsmanship through dedication

Marijo Cutura’s roots lie in former Yugoslavia, a region where distilling schnapps is still deeply rooted. “My granddad was a keen schnapps distiller, now I have taken over with dedication and commitment. A passion for the trade, a love of detail and a fascination with gin characterise my creations. They are intended to enrich special moments in life. I would like to bring people together and delight them with high-quality taste experiences.”

He continues this tradition today in Ilsfeld in the Swabian lowlands at the gateway to Heilbronn. The cultivated landscape is characterised by orchards and vineyards – a perfect inspiration for the products. In addition, hand-picked ingredients are meticulously prepared and often distilled multiple times in a small handmade copper still. All of this ensures that the distillates and liqueurs are imbued with a unique character and a special touch.

The Dry Gin – with an intense hint of juniper and a waft of citrus fruit – is an ideal basis for tonic waters and cocktails but can also be enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Chef Pero Adriatic Dry Gin – developed with the Croatian gourmet chef Pero Savanovic – brings together all the merits of a New Western Dry Gin and a Mediterranean touch. Modest juniper is complemented by a filigreed citrus aroma and rounded off by the floral length of hibiscus.

At the World Spirits Award, there was gold for Chef Pero Adriatic Dry Gin.

Fine Blankeneser Goods: Unity of quality and design

The intertwining traditions of trade and seafaring in the history of the Blankenese district of Hamburg were the inspiration for dedicating a gin to the ‘Jewel of the Elbe’. With the burgeoning East India trade, gin was part of the catering for seafarers, because the high alcohol content prevented the drink from spoiling during longer journeys – unlike beer or water.

Fabian Rohrwasser, distilling master at the ‘Feingeisterei’ at Gut Basthorst manor, developed the ‘Blankeneser’ recipe. Herbs and spices are used that came to Hamburg in the 17th century on merchant ships. The Premium Dry Gin is characterised by a sweet ginger tartness and a distinguishing bitter note. The aromatic support for the juniper is provided by the fruity, tart bouquet of orange peel, orange blossom and lavender, whilst coriander and Ceylon cinnamon produce a hint of spicy wood. Cardamom and green ginger together with angelica root and meadowsweet ensure the finish.

Fine Blankeneser Goods GmbH was founded in April 2018. The founder, creative head and brand ambassador is Sabina Pech. The company produces high-quality gifts and souvenirs in the areas of spirits, drinks and luxury foodstuffs. The packaging and design are important distinguishing factors, alongside the high quality. The elements are all interwoven and tell local stories. The bottle labels are based on illustrations that are enhanced every year to appeal also to collectors – all creations by Sabina Pech.

At the World Spirits Award 2025, there was Gold for Blankeneser Premium Dry Gin.