The story
First Written Mention of the Village of Hniezdne
The first written mention of the village of Hniezdne dates back to 1286, confirming its long and rich history in the northern Spiš region. Over the centuries, the village developed into an important craft and trade center that played a significant role in the everyday lives of local inhabitants. Thanks to its favorable location and preserved traditions, Hniezdne has maintained its unique historical character to this day.
Hniezdne Granted the Status of a Free Royal Town
In 1412, the Hungarian King Sigismund of Luxembourg granted Hniezdne the status of a free royal town, giving it significant privileges and a stronger position within the region. Among the granted rights was the tavern and distilling privilege, which allowed local inhabitants to produce and sell beverages, thereby supporting trade activities and the prosperity of the town. This period brought considerable growth to Hniezdne and strengthened its importance in the Spiš region.
Confirmation of Town Rights by the Polish King Sigismund II Augustus
In 1562, the Polish King Sigismund II Augustus confirmed the historical rights of the town of Hniezdne and called for their strict observance. One of the most important privileges was the tavern and distilling right, which played a major role in local trade and the economy. This confirmation of rights helped reinforce Hniezdne’s position as an important regional center and supported its further development.
Expansion of Distilling in Hniezdne
Historical records from 1828 state that as many as 110 owners of copper vessels intended for alcohol distillation operated within the territory of Hniezdne. This fact highlights the strong tradition of spirit production, which was an important part of the local economy and daily life of the inhabitants. The developed distilling industry also contributed to Hniezdne’s good reputation as a center of craftsmanship and trade activities in the region.
Establishment of BGV, s.r.o. and the Creation of Nestville Distillery
In 2001, the company BGV, s.r.o. was established, continuing the rich distilling tradition of the Hniezdne region. As part of its development, the modern Nestville Distillery was built and became a significant producer of high-quality spirits in Slovakia. The establishment of the company created new job opportunities, supported the development of tourism, and contributed to the revival of the historical traditions of spirit production in the region.
First Whisky Distillate Laid Down in Oak Barrels
The year 2008 represented an important milestone in the history of Nestville Distillery, when whisky distillate was laid down in oak barrels for maturation for the first time. This process is an essential part of producing quality whisky, as during maturation the distillate acquires its characteristic taste, aroma, and color. The beginning of whisky maturation symbolized another step in the development of traditional distilling and the ambition to create a unique Slovak whisky product.
Launch of the First Slovak Nestville Whisky
In 2012, the first bottle of Nestville Whisky with 40% alcohol content was officially launched on the market, making history as the first Slovak whisky. After years of maturation in oak barrels, a unique product was created, combining traditional distilling craftsmanship with modern production methods. The launch of Nestville Whisky represented an important milestone not only for Nestville Distillery, but also for the development of domestic spirits production.
Nestville Whisky Awarded in the Prestigious Whisky Bible
In 2019, Nestville Whisky Master Blender 2017 8yo received a significant international award from the world-renowned whisky expert Jim Murray in his publication Whisky Bible. This Slovak whisky was named the Best European Whisky of 2019, achieving extraordinary success on the global stage. The award confirmed the high quality of production at Nestville Distillery and positioned Slovak whisky among respected world-class brands.
