- Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin, initially successful in Meghalaya, has now launched in Guwahati, Assam, introducing its unique blend of local botanicals and sustainable practices to a broader audience.
- Crafted with rainwater and 12 native botanicals, this gin features a distinctive flavor profile with citrus notes, a smooth juniper base, and a hint of smoke, aiming to appeal to both local and global palates.
- The gin is bottled in innovative, reusable military-grade stainless steel as part of a commitment to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability in the spirits industry.
What Sets Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin Apart in the Craft Spirits Market?
Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin brings a refreshing wave to the craft spirits scene in Assam with its debut in Guwahati. Born in the rain-soaked terrains of Cherrapunji, this gin is distinguished by its incorporation of local elements and sustainable manufacturing processes. The gin is made using purified rainwater and a blend of 12 native botanicals sourced from across Northeast India, including Kaji Nemu from Assam, Khasi Mandarin from Meghalaya, smoked tea from Manipur, cardamom from Sikkim, and juniper from the eastern Himalayas.
This craft spirit is a brainchild of a collaboration between a local master distiller and a Dutch expert, designed to create a sipping gin that respects its roots while appealing to a global audience. The unique use of regional botanicals, which had never previously been used in gin production, offers a novel taste experience that highlights the rich biodiversity of the region.
In addition to its unique flavor profile, Cherrapunji Gin is pioneering sustainability in the industry. It is one of the few spirits worldwide to use rainwater instead of groundwater, reducing dependency on local water resources. The distillery also uses advanced, energy-efficient stills from the Netherlands that cut energy use by 70%, underscoring its commitment to environmental responsibility. Furthermore, the choice of a reusable stainless steel bottle over traditional glass represents a significant innovation in packaging, aiming to reduce the product’s carbon footprint and encourage recycling.
The packaging of the gin itself tells a story of Cherrapunji’s cultural and natural heritage, beautifully illustrated by Portland-based designer Reshidev RK. The imagery captures the essence of the region with symbols like the colonial-era Bedford bus, red pandas, and bamboo forests, adding an artistic dimension to the gin that celebrates the spirit of Northeast India.
Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin not only offers a unique product but also sets a precedent for how craft spirits can integrate local tradition with global appeal and environmental stewardship. Its launch in Assam promises to captivate the senses of gin enthusiasts and environmentally conscious consumers alike, offering them a taste of Northeast India’s unique flavors and a model of sustainable production.
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