Over 60% of India’s alcohol market is dominated by whisky, with only around 10% shared by white spirits like vodka and gin. As suggested by new market reports and the entry of gin labels in the domestic market, it is safe to conclude that India is exploring and accepting other spirits over the much-preferred whisky.
While many craft gin labels like Stranger & Sons and Greater Than are distilling the spirit to bring an authentic taste to Indian enthusiasts, some labels like Jin Jiji and Jaisalmer are distilling to cater to the international market.
Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, a spirit from the house of Radico Khaitan (formerly known as Rampur Distillery) is distilled in Northern India for international markets like France, the UK and the US. Distilled in small batches with a single batch producing only around 700 bottles, Jaisalmer gin carefully packs the royalty and spectacularity of the princely city it is named after. From its flavour to aroma, one can absorb elegance in every sip.
The gin is a product of 11 botanicals, out of which seven are handpicked from all over India – coriander and vetiver from the north, orange peel from the Central, cubeb pepper and lemongrass from the South, Darjeeling tea from the East and lemon peel from the West. The other four ingredients include juniper berries, angelica roots, liquorice and caraway seeds.
Jaisalmer gin is a triple-distilled neutral grain spirit that uses copper pot stills to acquire its unique character. The flavour profile dances around juniper, coriander and orange whereas the aroma touches notes of lemongrass, tea, coriander and caraway.
The gin, which is bottled at 43% ABV, is retailed at a price of £35.45 in Europe and $46 in the US. Having won at The Gin Guide Awards in 2019, the spirit has created quite a market in the regions.
If you would like to get a taste of Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, you can purchase a bottle from Delhi Duty Free stores!
