World Gin Day: The era of the homegrown Indian gin

‘Ginaissance' might be old news, but it is still far from being written off. While India was introduced to gin with international industry leaders like Gordon's, Bombay Sapphire and Beefeater, local gin brands adapted Indian taste preferences by incorporating traditional botanicals and flavours into their products and captured the attention of the experimental patron. If the number of homegrown gins (which seems to be multiplying) is an indication, gin is poised to bask in the Indian sun for years to come. You name the flavour profile or botanical, Indian gin-makers bottle it - from strawberry (Samsara) to coffee infusions (Greater Than), and from turmeric (Hapusa) to tulsi (Terai).

"India has a long-standing tradition of consuming spirits with whiskey and rum often dominating the market. However, gin has carved its own niche, appealing to a growing number of discerning drinkers," says marketer and brand strategist Vijeta Singh. With an experience of over eight years in the food and beverages and branding space, Singh put that expertise to good use when she started Cobbler & Crew, an award-winning cocktail-first bar in Pune's vibrant gastronomy scene.

Locally sourced botanicals
Singh says that locally sourced botanicals are a key element. "One notable aspect of India's gin drinking culture is the use of locally sourced botanicals. Indian gins often feature botanicals like coriander seeds, cardamom, cinnamon, fennel seeds and citrus peels, which lend a distinctively Indian touch to the spirit. These botanicals not only reflect the country's rich culinary heritage but also create a unique flavour profile that resonates with Indian consumers."

Getting crafty
While traditional flavours have their charm, the Indian gin scene has also witnessed a surge in contemporary gins. Singh stresses on innovation as the driving force behind the popularity of Indian gins. "Craft distilleries and innovative gin producers have introduced exciting variations, experimenting with unique botanical combinations and flavours. This infusion of creativity has expanded the horizons of gin drinkers, offering them a wide range of options to explore."

Commitment and storytelling
With a new gin brand or variant popping up every month, we ask Singh what's the formula behind success. She says, "Just because gin is a neutral spirit, easy to make, you see a new brand coming up every now and then. Most brands have outsourced distilleries which is a cheaper way of production, similar to white labelling in many cases. But these brands lack R&D and personality. "Stranger and Sons" and "Greater Than" are making exceptional products loved by the consumers. Their commitment to quality and craftsmanship is unmatched and flavour innovation and experimentation efforts are ever-evolving. I would like to give a special mention to their brand storytelling and consumer engagement too which has aided their journey."

How to drink your Indian gins
In addition to savouring gin and tonic or gin and soda, gin cocktails have also found a special place in India's burgeoning cocktail culture. It is not a surprise that as mixologists around the country experiment with ingredients and techniques, patrons are also willing to try new cocktails.

"While the gin culture in India started with London dry, we have seen a big shift from it to Indian Dry to patrons enjoying contemporary and craft gins beautifully now. With a penchant for both classic flavours and contemporary twists, gin lovers in India appreciate the versatility and botanical complexity of the spirit," says Moustapha Cassum, partner at Elephant & Co. Goa. The coastal state has become the epicentre of the gin movement in India with multiple distilleries setting base in, and offering the most diverse gins to tourists and a stream of digital-nomads-turned-settlers.

He credits his passion for curation, conversation and gastronomy in creating a space where his guests (often high-spirited tourists) can unwind and enjoy themselves whilst feeling at ease like it was their home. While he prefers a classic Gin Basil Smash or French 75, we asked Cassum to delve into the different types of gin available and explore some delightful ways to enjoy them, whether with mixers or in classic cocktails.

London Dry Gin
This classic style of gin is known for its juniper-forward flavour profile. It pairs exceptionally well with tonic water, making it the ideal choice for a refreshing gin and tonic. The crispness of the gin beautifully complements the bitterness of the tonic, resulting in a timeless and refreshing combination.
Indian gins: Greater Than

Cocktails you can make from London Dry

Gin and Tonic
A classic and refreshing choice, the G&T combines London Dry Gin with tonic water and a squeeze of fresh lime. Garnish with a slice of lime or a twist of citrus peel.

Dry Martini
Mix London Dry Gin with a splash of dry vermouth for a sophisticated and timeless cocktail. Stir with ice, strain into a chilled martini glass and garnish with a lemon twist or olive.

Negroni
Equal parts gin, Campari and sweet vermouth, the Negroni is a bold and bitter cocktail that showcases the botanical complexity of London Dry Gin. Serve on the rocks and garnish with an orange peel.

Tom Collins
A classic long drink, the Tom Collins combines gin, lemon juice, simple syrup, and soda water. Garnish with a lemon slice and a cherry for a refreshing sip.

Indian Dry Gin
Inspired by traditional Indian botanicals, Indian dry gins often feature a unique blend of herbs, spices, and fruits that showcase the country's rich flavours.
When it comes to mixing, consider experimenting with Indian flavours like cardamom, coriander, or even mango to create intriguing cocktails that pay homage to the region's vibrant culinary heritage.
Indian gins: Stranger and Sons (original), Jaisalmer, Hapusa

Cocktails you can make from Indian Dry

Indian Gin and Tonic
Enhance the Indian flavours by pairing your favourite Indian Dry Gin with tonic water, a squeeze of fresh lime, and a few crushed cardamom pods or a slice of ginger as garnish.

Indian Martini
Shake Indian Dry Gin with a touch of dry vermouth and strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon or a sprig of fresh curry leaves for an aromatic twist.

Indian Spiced Collins
Mix Indian Dry Gin with freshly squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of aromatic bitters. Top it off with soda water and garnish with a lemon wheel and a sprinkle of ground spices like cardamom or cinnamon.

Indian Bramble
Muddle fresh berries in the bottom of a glass, then add Indian Dry Gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup. Stir well, fill the glass with crushed ice, and garnish with a lemon twist and a few fresh berries.

Contemporary Gins
These gins embrace experimentation, often incorporating unconventional botanicals and flavour profiles. With contemporary gins, the possibilities are endless. You can explore a wide range of mixers, from fruity and floral to herbal and savoury, to enhance the nuanced flavours of these gins. Experiment with different combinations and find your own signature cocktail creation.
Indian gins: Samsara, Stranger and Sons (limited editions)

Craft Gins
Craft gins are meticulously handcrafted in small batches, showcasing the artistry and passion of the distillers. These gins often feature unique and locally sourced botanicals, resulting in complex and distinctive flavour profiles. Craft gins are perfect for savouring neat or on the rocks to truly appreciate their intricate flavours and aromas.
Indian gins: Jaisalmer, Pumori