Shoe/Syrup/Sushi

Hello, fellow cocktail enthusiasts! Today, I’m thrilled to dive into a topic that’s close to my heart—and taste buds. Indian gin cocktails are becoming a vibrant trend in the mixology world, and as someone who loves exploring new cocktail realms, I couldn’t resist sharing my personal favorites and recommendations. But first, let’s kick things off with a few delicious Indian gin cocktail recipes that you can try at home!

Delicious Indian Gin Cocktail Recipes

1. Hapusa Himalayan Negroni

Ingredients:

• 1 oz Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin
• 1 oz Campari
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• Orange twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add Hapusa Gin, Campari, and Sweet Vermouth.
3. Stir well until chilled and diluted.
4. Strain into a chilled glass over a large ice cube.
5. Garnish with an orange twist.

2. Stranger & Sons Gin Rickey

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Stranger & Sons Gin
• 1 oz Lime juice
• 1/2 oz Simple syrup
• Club soda
• Lime wheel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a highball glass with ice.
2. Add Stranger & Sons Gin, lime juice, and simple syrup.
3. Top up with club soda.
4. Stir gently to combine.
5. Garnish with a lime wheel.

3. Jaisalmer Spiced Gin Fizz

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin
• 1 oz Lemon juice
• 1/2 oz Simple syrup
• 1 egg white (optional for frothiness)
• A pinch of ground cinnamon
• Lemon twist, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a shaker, combine Jaisalmer Gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and egg white if using.
2. Shake vigorously without ice (dry shake) to create foam.
3. Add ice and shake again until well chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled glass.
5. Garnish with a pinch of ground cinnamon and a lemon twist.

The Rise of Indian Gin

India’s gin scene has been booming, thanks to a wave of local distilleries that have infused their gins with unique, indigenous botanicals. The result? Gin that’s rich, complex, and bursting with flavors that reflect our diverse heritage. As a cocktail aficionado, I’ve spent countless evenings experimenting with these local gins, and I’m excited to share how they’ve transformed my cocktail creations.

My Top 3 Indian Gins

1. Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin – When it comes to gin with a distinctive character, Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin is my absolute favorite. Crafted with botanicals sourced from the Himalayan region, this gin offers a fresh, earthy flavor profile. Its combination of juniper, coriander, and locally foraged herbs creates a balanced yet adventurous taste. I love using Hapusa in a classic Negroni or a simple Gin & Tonic, where its nuanced flavors truly shine.
2. Stranger & Sons Gin – Stranger & Sons Gin has quickly become a staple in my home bar. This Mumbai-based gin boasts a bold, robust flavor with hints of citrus, spice, and peppercorns. Its versatility makes it perfect for both traditional and innovative cocktails. Whether it’s a zesty Gimlet or a refreshing Gin Rickey, Stranger & Sons never fails to impress with its complexity and depth.
3. Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin – Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin is another gem that has earned a special place in my collection. Produced in Rajasthan, this gin is infused with 11 botanicals, including Indian spices like cloves and cardamom. The result is a beautifully aromatic gin that pairs exceptionally well with a splash of tonic or in a sophisticated Martini. I particularly enjoy it in a spiced Gin Fizz, which highlights its warm, spicy notes.

Why Indian Gin Cocktails?

Exploring Indian gin cocktails has been a delightful adventure for me. The unique botanicals and local ingredients offer a fresh twist on classic recipes and provide endless opportunities for creativity. Whether you’re crafting a simple cocktail or experimenting with new flavors, Indian gins offer a distinct and exciting experience that’s worth trying.

I’ve had so much fun experimenting with these gins and discovering their potential in various cocktails. The diversity and richness of flavors truly make each drink a celebration of India’s vibrant spirit.

What’s Next?

I hope this guide inspires you to explore the wonderful world of Indian gin cocktails. Stay tuned for my next blog, where I’ll be taking you on a journey through some of Bangalore’s best spots for enjoying gin cocktails. From hidden gems to trendy bars, I’ll share where you can find exceptional gin-based drinks that showcase the creativity of Bangalore’s cocktail scene.

Until then, cheers to your gin adventures! 🍸✨

Feel free to share your favorite Indian gins and cocktails in the comments below. I’d love to hear about your own mixology experiences and recommendations!