Iecava Spirit Distillery

WHEAT A-Z

Iecava Distillery focuses specifically on non-GMO wheat

that has been carefully selected according to stringent quality criteria.

However, this involves more than simply honouring our natural resources.

It’s about elevating them to a whole new level through the unique understanding and experience we have gained over centuries of wheat cultivation and production. At Iecava Distillery, we are rediscovering and unlocking the true potential of wheat.

Wheat forms the foundation of our culture

and we are, therefore, committed to responsible and sustainable processes that ensure the longevity of the species.

We know wheat, and we know how to use it.

Our comprehensive methods encompass an A–Z process, converting grain into high-quality ethanol and unique ingredients that help create future foods, such as wholegrain protein concentrate.

HISTORY

1788

Construction of the spirit distillery begins

Count Pahlen starts the construction of a brewery in Lieliecava Manor. A spirit distillery is also built as a part of the construction and by 1805 has expanded to begin the production of the liqueur “Eckau OO Kummel”.

1830

Iecava Distillery is purchased by former factory supervisor, E. Tidemanis

The Iecava Spirit Distillery undergoes significant modernisation and develops its manufacturing processes. Spirit production expands from grain to also include potatoes and sugar beet molasses.

1934

Iecava Distillery becomes the only location in Latvia to produce carbon dioxide

The carbon dioxide is used to provide health benefits and other treatments at the Ķemeri and Baldone Sanatoriums.

1960

Iecava Distillery becomes one of the few distilleries to produce raw spirit

The production of raw spirit is used to produce alcoholic beverages by the production union “Latvijas Balzams”.

2004

Reconstruction works begin in grain pre-processing and spirit distillation plants

There is a reconstruction of the grain pre-processing and spirit distillation plants where 99.5% strength ethanol is produced and used to manufacture biofuel.

2019–2021

A major reconstruction is undertaken to ensure the production of food grade ethyl alcohol, and protein concentrate is of the highest standard.

2022

Technological improvements are continually implemented in order to launch an innovative new product — wholegrain protein concentrate.