Rothaus Distillery (Black Forest)

Whisky distillery operated by the Rothaus state brewery, one of the Black Forest's most iconic beer brands (Tannenzäpfle). Whisky production began 2009, leveraging the brewery's 200+ year brewing heritage (founded 1791). Uses Rothaus pale ale wash and a single copper pot still. Matures in ex-bourbon and ex-wine casks in the Black Forest at 1,000m elevation — cold winters and misty conditions create slow, gentle maturation. Released as Black Forest Single Malt Whisky. The state-owned brewery backing gives Rothaus a unique position: government-funded German whisky. The Black Forest's microclimate and Rothaus's beer-making expertise produce a distinctly malty, clean spirit.