Saentis Malt (Braeuerei Locher): History, Whisky Range and Visitor Guide
Updated: 6 days ago
Brauerei Locher began producing Säntis Malt in 1999, building upon more than 130 years of brewing history at the foot of the Alpstein mountains. The Locher family had historically matured beer in oak barrels, which became a distinctive resource when it began distilling whisky.
The whisky brand takes its name from nearby Mount Säntis. Different editions make use of casks previously used for beer, including former beer barrels that were repurposed for malt whisky maturation.
In this guide
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Saentis Malt (Braeuerei Locher) at a glance
Quick fact | Details |
|---|---|
Location | Appenzell, Switzerland |
Country | Switzerland |
Region | Appenzell Innerrhoden |
Founded | Whisky distillation began in 1999 |
People | Brauerei Locher, Appenzell family brewing business |
Featured whisky | Säntis Malt Himmelberg |
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Distillery history and ownership
Brauerei Locher began producing Säntis Malt in 1999, building upon more than 130 years of brewing history at the foot of the Alpstein mountains. The Locher family had historically matured beer in oak barrels, which became a distinctive resource when it began distilling whisky.
The whisky brand takes its name from nearby Mount Säntis. Different editions make use of casks previously used for beer, including former beer barrels that were repurposed for malt whisky maturation.
People and business ownership
Brauerei Locher, Appenzell family brewing business. Ownership may have changed from the founder and should be checked with the most recent company information.
Whisky production and maturation
The family distillery produces malt whisky using brewing equipment and copper stills. Water from the Alpstein mountain region and malted barley connect the operation to its beer brewing roots.
Many Säntis Malt expressions finish in barrels from sherry, port, wine or spirits. Himmelberg is commonly bottled at 43% ABV and combines beer cask influence with further wine cask character.
Whisky bottle range
Säntis Malt Edition Himmelberg
Swiss malt whisky 43% ABV, matured in beer-seasoned and wine casks.
Säntis Malt Edition Sigel
An Alpine whisky expression with a lighter cask-influenced profile.
Säntis Malt Edition Föhnsturm
A separate bottling inspired by the alpine wind.
Säntis Malt Snow White Editions
Limited six-year-old versions with fruit brandy cask finishes, such as the pear finish.
This is a real whisky bottle or, for Braunstein, the genuine whisky range pictured inside the distillery. The image is not a generic glass.
Awards and notable milestones
The producer celebrates award-winning malt whisky since the early 2000s. Individual cask-finish medals should be verified by release and year.
Visiting Saentis Malt (Braeuerei Locher)
Brauerei Locher and Säntis Malt production are based in Appenzell. Specific tours and production visit availability should be confirmed with the producer; do not assume the brewery always offers whisky tours.
Visitor openings, booking and pricing may change. Check the official operator before travelling.
Frequently asked questions
Where is the distillery?
Appenzell, Switzerland
When was the business established?
Whisky distillation began in 1999
Who owns or runs it?
Brauerei Locher, Appenzell family brewing business
What whisky does it make?
Säntis Malt Edition Himmelberg, Säntis Malt Edition Sigel, Säntis Malt Edition Föhnsturm, Säntis Malt Snow White Editions. Release details vary.
Can you visit?
Brauerei Locher and Säntis Malt production are based in Appenzell. Specific tours and production visit availability should be confirmed with the producer; do not assume the brewery always offers whisky tours.
Explore more Switzerland distilleries
Rugenbräu Distillery — Canton of Bern (Bernese Oberland)
Continue exploring whisky distilleries from Switzerland.
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Sources and photo credits
Research last checked 23 October 2026. External links and image credits appear at the bottom.
About the author
Whisky Clan researches the people, production, distilleries and bottles behind whisky with sources and reader corrections.
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