The Rise of Indian Gin: A Botanical Revolution in the Craft Spirits Industry

If there’s one thing I love about Indian gin, it’s how it captures the spirit of India—quite literally. As someone who enjoys fine spirits and loves diving deep into the alcobev industry, I’ve been fascinated by the rapid transformation of the Indian gin market. Gone are the days when gin was just another spirit on the shelf. Today, we have an array of artisanal, small-batch gins infused with indigenous botanicals that make every sip an adventure.

My Journey with Indian Gin

My introduction to Indian craft gin was a revelation. The first time I tasted a well-crafted Himalayan juniper-infused gin, I knew we were onto something special. The rise of cocktail culture in India, especially in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Goa, has brought a newfound appreciation for this nuanced spirit. And let’s be honest—who doesn’t love a good gin & tonic with a twist of gondhoraj lime?

Photo by Ankita Gupta on Unsplash

What Sets Indian Gin Apart?

  1. Locally Sourced Botanicals – Indian gins incorporate ingredients like black pepper, fennel, coriander, vetiver, ginger, and even curry leaves, making them truly one-of-a-kind.
  2. Sustainability & Craftsmanship – Small-batch production ensures high-quality spirits with an emphasis on authenticity.
  3. A Cultural Experience – With a history steeped in spices and Ayurveda, every Indian gin is like a trip through the country’s diverse landscapes.

My Favorite Indian Gin Brands

  1. Greater Than Gin – The OG of Indian craft gin, clean and crisp with subtle citrus notes.
  2. Stranger & Sons – A spicy, complex gin that screams bold Indian flavors.
  3. Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin – Smooth, rich, and packed with warm spice notes like nutmeg and Darjeeling tea.
  4. Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin – Earthy and robust, this gin is a wild ride with hints of turmeric and cardamom.
  5. Pumori Gin – Balanced and elegant, perfect for a classic G&T or a creative cocktail.

How I Enjoy Indian Gin

  • The Ultimate G&T – A splash of premium tonic, a wedge of gondhoraj lime, and maybe a sprig of fresh basil.
  • Spice-Infused Cocktails – I love experimenting with saffron, basil, and even mango for something unique.
  • Neat or On the Rocks – A high-quality gin deserves to be savored slowly.

The Future of Indian Gin

As a trade marketer and alcobev enthusiast, I see Indian gin becoming a global contender. With barrel-aged gins, regional influences, and sustainable distilling on the rise, the future looks bright. If you’re new to the world of Indian craft gin, now’s the time to explore and find your perfect pour.

What’s your go-to Indian gin? Let’s geek out over it in the comments! 🍸

Leave a comment

I’m Apurva

Welcome to Shoe/Syrup/Sushi, a space where I, Apurva, blend my passions for marketing and art. This blog is a canvas for my explorations in food, fashion, and art, offering a unique perspective that challenges conventions and sparks creativity. Join me on this journey as we delve into the stories behind flavors, fabrics, and frames, and discover how they shape our experiences.

Let’s connect