Gin and juniper-flavored spirits are an important part of the spirits industry of the Netherlands; Dutch soldiers in the 16th century were given genever to help them in their battles against opposing forces. The Dutch gins are very flavorful and elegant, often made with ingredients from countries as varied as Italy, Morocco and Indonesia. Genevers, produced long before the more commercial gins in the country, tend to be even spicier and more distinctive.

There are a few large distillers in the Netherlands that make fruit and nut liqueurs that are exported to many countries around the world. Flavored vodkas are also made here and exported; these are moderately priced vodkas for mixing.