Det Norske Brenneri, formerly Puntervold / Agder Brenneri, produces spirits and stores its casks in Grimstad, southern Norway. Here, among other products, various aquavit brands and apple spirits have been produced since the Norwegian alcohol production monopoly was dissolved in 2005. We were the first private distillery in Norway after more than 80 years of monopoly. When it comes to the production of fortified wines, Grimstad has a history dating back to the 1880s, through the brand Fuhr. We now produce gin, aquavit, whisky, and other spirits.
Our products are hand-crafted following old traditions. At Det Norske Brenneri we are uncompromising. We are always in search of the best quality and we use the finest natural ingredients from Norwegian nature. Our products are multi-award-winning in some of the world’s most prestigious international spirits competitions.
Det Norske Brenneri was established in 2011. The two founders, Odd J. Nelvik and Stig Bareksten, , wanted to create a new Aquavit in which cask-ageing would create a smoother and complex result. And so, Arvesølvet Aquavit was born. In January 2014, Det Norske Brenneri merged with Puntervold AS and Agder Brenneri and continues their proud tradition started by Ole Puntervold.
Ole Puntervold is a pioneer of Norwegian spirits production. He received the very first production license in Norway following the easing of the distilling regulations. Ole Puntervold has a Master of Science in organic chemistry, specializing in biochemistry. It was his father who founded the business in 1952. Ole Puntervold’s watchword for his business was: Nil satis nisi optimum – only the best is good enough!
Meet the staff
Andreas Hagen
– the most smiley guy in all of south Norway, structured thinker, expert, and self-starter.
Sigbjørn Haugereid
Experience in the beverage industry, Nøgne Ø/Arendals Bryggeri/Ølbrygging, technical expert and problem-solver, working in production and logistics.
Anita Johannesen
With 10 years of experience in the industry, working in production and logistics. She never sees problems only solutions!
Grethe Håbestad
With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, working in production and logistics. She is a force to be reckoned with!
Robin Gundersen
The apprentice who became the master: distiller with the longest experience and the youngest age in the department.
Martin Hallberg
Structured, king of excel, engaged, and creative Swede with a green finger and a Norwegian sense of humour.
Jon Bertelsen
– master blender at Grimstad. Jon is the creator of the cognacs that bear his name.
Fabian Widmer
oss of the Distillery, former cheese producer, solution-oriented Swiss man.
Nils Johan Aaserud
Dedicated distiller and barrel manager.
Odd J. Nelvik
Founder, limitless visionary, teller of stories, and manager.
Jarle Nereng
Engaged, creative, manager, responsible for export, distribution, and marketing.
Wenche Knudsen
Head of the production line! She has total control of all situations!
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