The art of distillation and the modern lifestyle

Hans Affentranger laid the foundations for modern Destillerie Willisau (DIWISA) more than 100 years ago. What began as a small distillery for spirits, liqueurs and syrup, is today the Swiss market leader for the production and distribution of premium beverages and one of Europe’s most modern distilleries.

“DIWISA has a rather eventful history, but still today remains a family-run company, which consciously and with great love for the product, skillfully combines traditional craftsmanship with ingenuity and high-tech equipment. Plus, with a keen sense for current trends, it recognises the lifestyles and needs of tomorrow’s consumers, too. From this knowledge,” says Claudio Lobosco, global export director at DIWISA, “we create beverages that stand for moments of pleasure and the joy of life.”

Beverages such as the award-winning Xellent Vodka (double gold and silver at the San Francisco World Spirits Competitions): a vodka with a strong character and rough edges – just like the people of the Lucerne hinterland where it is distilled. Pure on ice or in a cocktail – Xellent Vodka is versatile and enjoyable. “Xellent combines the finest ingredients. Made by passionate master distillers who know exactly what they are doing, it has a fruity taste, which, thanks to its nutty appeal and the light taste of rye, provides a long-lasting taste sensation. Xellent is clearly a vodka for people with a sense for the finer things, and a taste for the unusual and individual.”

Traditional indulgence or innovative lifestyle – opinions often differ when it comes to beverages. Some distilleries, however, manage to easily combine the two.

Similarly individual is Marito Verde, the mightily green Swiss aperitif. “Sure, the colour stands out, as does its taste. We use only the best Swiss herbs and process them with love and according to our very own method. Bright green, lemony fresh and fully natural – that’s how we like Marito Verde best. Its taste and colour come best into their own in a large goblet. Add ice cubes and four centilitres of Marito Verde, fill up with 14 centilitres of soda water and add a slice of lemon – done! Quickly made, incredibly tasty and convincingly refreshing.”