Our story

Founders

Sas Distilleries is a family distillery, founded in 2014 by Prof. Dr. Benedikt Sas and MSc. Katia De Henau.

Benedikt is the master distiller. He has a PhD in organic chemistry and also possesses in-depth knowledge of flavour and nutritional substances, and immerses himself in the study of alchemical works. At the University of Ghent, he teaches about business strategy and innovation management to future bio-engineers.

Katia holds a master's degree in chemistry and various specialisations in quality, safety- and environmental management in the food industry. She also immerses herself in the study of alchemical works and herbal knowledge.

The Sas family can trace their ancestors back to 1393, within the Duchy of Brabant.

For more than 3 generations of chemical knowledge

After Dr. Sas obtained his doctorate in organic chemistry, he started in the nutraceutical sector, where he was able to further specialise in the chemistry of taste substances. During this period, he also began to delve into the medicinal properties of plants and herbs. In his free time, he reconstructed a Kempish recipe for double barley beer and further explored the biochemistry behind brewing, and the function of different types of yeast and enzymes.

Katia, after obtaining her master's degree in chemistry, worked for several years as a manager in the QESH department of an important malting company.

More History

Bringing historical recipes to life

Prof. Dr. Benedikt Sas has worked for years on flavour compounds,

flavour chemistry and the bioactive substances in plants and herbs. At the same time, he has always had a great love for history, historical records and local history.

In archives and old manuscripts, he found recipes for elixirs, tinctures and

medicinal drinks that had been forgotten for centuries.

There I saw the opportunity to bring two worlds together. What the alchemists of old described in symbols and coded language, we can today understand with modern chemistry.

described in symbols and coded language, we can today understand with modern chemistry. Understanding and aligning ancient alchemical insights and processes with contemporary science: that is for me the core of our work.

Reuniting the technical scientific with the spiritual insights,

to restore harmony and natural balance.

Katia shared that passion. She is a chemist, knows the malting and food industry from the inside and, like me, delves into herbs and alchemical preparations.

Thus, we founded Sas Distilleries together in 2014. Prof. Dr. Benedikt Sas is also a member of several ancient knightly orders, in which alchemy plays an important role.

Since 2021, I have been carrying the torch to continue that centuries-old tradition.

That knowledge flows, with respect for what should remain secret, into every bottle that leaves our distillery.

Vision

The reference for artisanal distilleries, with quality and exclusive spirits that are appreciated by connoisseurs worldwide.

Mission

By studying old recipes, traditional distillation techniques and installations, combined with creative and innovative scientific knowledge, Sas Distilleries renovates traditional preparations, but will also develop new products for connoisseurs.
All products are made artisanally in small quantities, by using a copper still and mainly local raw materials.

Goal

Sas Distilleries brings tradition and innovation together in one glass. With respect for authentic Belgian distillation techniques and a fresh perspective on local ingredients, they develop unique, artisanal spirits. Their goal? To breathe new life into existing traditions while creating surprising flavours that continue to innovate the craft of distilling.

The Family

Benedikt Sas

Co-Founder & Master distiller

Lucas Sas

Sales & Marketing

Katia DeHenau

Co-Founder

Alexander Sas

Distiller