Three CMB Merit awards at Spirits Selection 2026
During Spirits Selection 2026, the international panel of experts judged the participating spirits on their aromas, taste, balance, complexity and overall harmony, among other criteria.C-Gin – Inspired by the Sea | 88.2/100 – CMB Merit 2026
Our C-Gin – Inspired by the Sea is a refined Belgian gin, inspired by the Belgian coast. Sea buckthorn and carefully selected aromatic herbs create a fresh and distinctive flavor profile. The international jury noted, among other things:- Fruity aromas with notes of raspberry.
- Spicy nuances of white pepper, nutmeg, coriander and thyme.
- Well-integrated alcohol and a pleasant balance.
Mastentoppen Jenever | 88.0/100 – CMB Merit 2026
Our Mastentoppen Jenever is a distinctive Belgian jenever with a strong connection to the nature of Domein Heihuyzen. Pine cones from the estate's forests, among other ingredients, are used in this creation. Aging in oak gives the jenever extra depth and character. The international jury noted, among other things:- Warm aromas of caramel and chocolate.
- Notes of roasted coffee.
- A soft, velvety texture.
M-Gin – Inspired by Nature | 87.6/100 – CMB Merit 2026
Our M-Gin – Inspired by Nature draws inspiration from the forests and nature of the historic Domein Heihuyzen. With botanicals such as pine cone, galangal and blackberry, this Belgian gin reflects the natural character of the Antwerp Kempen. The international jury noted, among other things:- Aromatic notes of pine resin and juniper berries.
- Spicy nuances of rosemary and verbena.
- A soft flavor with a long finish.
What does a CMB Merit award mean?
The CMB Merit award is an international quality recognition for spirits that achieve a score of at least 86 out of 100 and fall just outside the top 33% worldwide. According to the organization, this recognition confirms the exceptional quality of a product, judged by an international panel of experts. That three spirits from Domein Heihuyzen received this award is a special confirmation for us of the quality of our Belgian gin and jenever. More information about the international competition can be found on the official website of Spirits Selection by CMB.Inspired by Nature – the story behind Domein Heihuyzen
We find the inspiration for our spirits at the historic Domein Heihuyzen in Oostmalle, in the heart of the Antwerp Kempen. The extensive forests, nature and the estate's unique history form the basis of our philosophy: Inspired by Nature. For several of our creations, botanicals and natural ingredients are carefully selected and partially harvested by hand on the estate. In collaboration with the Belgian distillery Sterkstokers in Sint-Lenaarts, we translate these ingredients and our own recipes into distinctive Belgian spirits with a recognizable Heihuyzen identity. In this way, we combine the nature and heritage of our estate with Belgian craftsmanship.International recognition for Belgian quality spirits
The results of Spirits Selection 2026 represent important international recognition for Domein Heihuyzen. What began with a passion for nature, heritage and distinctive flavors has grown into our own range of Belgian quality spirits. With our C-Gin, M-Gin and Mastentoppen Jenever, we want to not only offer original flavors, but also share the story of Domein Heihuyzen and the Kempen nature with a wider audience. These three awards motivate us to continue investing in quality, authenticity and original flavor combinations.Discover our award-winning spirits and the Heihuyzen range
Want to discover for yourself why our Belgian gin and jenever received international recognition at Spirits Selection 2026? Meet our three awarded creations:- C-Gin – Inspired by the Sea – 88.2/100
- Mastentoppen Jenever – 88.0/100
- M-Gin – Inspired by Nature – 87.6/100