Far from an ordinary distillery, the origins of SLYRS hark back to 779 AD when monks from Ireland and Scotland established a monastery by the Schliersee. Yet, the groundwork for what the distillery has become today, would not be laid until centuries later. In 1928, Josef and Amalie Lantenhammer founded their own distillery in the quiet village of Hausham, located just a short distance from the Schliersee. What started as a modest venture developed into a successful destination for exquisite spirits.
When their grandson Florian Stetter joined the family business in 1985, he brought with him a spirit of innovation that would set new standards for premium brandies crafted from the finest fruits. Inspired by a transformative trip to Scotland, Florian expanded the distillery’s horizons in 1999 and combined his heritage with a newfound vision: creating a Bavarian single malt whisky.
Today, SLYRS embodies its rich heritage, capturing the essence of Bavaria in every bottle, crafted where towering mountains meet winding streams, and where tradition and innovation come together to create a unique tasting experience.
As the vision of SLYRS began to take shape, Hans Kemenater became a driving force behind its realization. Following his training at the Lantenhammer Distillery in the early 2000s, Kemenater was at the heart of the early production of SLYRS Bavarian Single Malt, guiding the first batches to fruition and carving out the brand as a pioneer in German whisky.
The whisky begins its journey in the fertile fields near Munich, where local barley is carefully cultivated. After the malting process, the barley takes on a subtle, smoky character that is unmistakably SLYRS. Paired with the pure, mineral-rich waters of the Bannwald spring, these ingredients lay the groundwork for a whisky deeply rooted in its Bavarian homeland.
When all the elements come together, the whisky enters a phase of patient fermentation, a process that is carefully monitored to allow the flavors to fully emerge. Each step is guided with intention, ensuring that the spirit develops the complexity and depth that have come to define SLYRS. The distillation that follows is equally meticulous, capturing and preserving the essence of these carefully nurtured ingredients, resulting in a whisky that is rich and layered in its taste.
To achieve the unmistakable taste of SLYRS, the aging process in the distillery’s cellars is crucial, with the choice of barrel serving as a key to defining its character. Each barrel, made out of American white oak from Missouri, becomes a time capsule of flavor and aroma, where the organic compounds in the alcohol mingle with the oak. As the whisky rests, the cool Bavarian air and shifting seasons work in concert with the wood, gradually weaving depth and complexity into the spirit over time.
For those who seek more than just a taste, SLYRS offers an invitation to step into the heart of its whisky distillation process. The distillery frequently opens its doors, allowing visitors to embark on a journey through its “Erlebniswelt” („World of Experience”), where the art of whisky-making unfolds before your eyes. From the rich aroma of aging barrels to the meticulous craft of distillation, every detail reflects the passion and heritage that make SLYRS truly unique. As you walk through the halls where tradition and innovation converge, you can witness the craft of whisky-making while connecting with the enduring legacy of Bavaria – a story that continues to unfold, deeply rooted to its origins.
