The Most Famous Gin and Tonic Brands from Uruguay
Uruguay is most often associated with wine (especially Tannat), grappa, and yerba mate, but in recent years it has also joined the global gin boom. Though smaller in scale compared to neighboring Argentina or Brazil, Uruguay’s craft distillers have begun producing artisanal gins that highlight the country’s Atlantic climate, fertile soils, and local botanicals.
In Montevideo, Punta del Este, and Colonia del Sacramento, the gin & tonic has become a trendy, cosmopolitan cocktail, embraced by locals and international visitors alike. Uruguay’s gins tend to combine classic juniper with native botanicals like yerba mate, eucalyptus, citrus, and herbs from the Pampas.
A Short History of Gin in Uruguay
Gin was introduced to Uruguay through European immigration in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly from Spain and Italy. For decades, gin in Uruguay meant imported bottles — Gordon’s, Beefeater, and Larios were the most common.
The change came in the 2010s, as Uruguay’s booming wine and craft beer scenes inspired a new wave of small-batch distillers. These producers began making gins that reflected Uruguay’s terroir, much as winemakers do with Tannat. Today, Uruguay may not have dozens of gin labels, but its artisanal brands are distinctive and gaining recognition.
Famous Uruguayan Gin Brands
1. Gin Mate – A Tribute to National Identity
Distillery: Montevideo
Gin Mate is inspired by Uruguay’s most iconic beverage — yerba mate.
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Botanicals: Juniper, yerba mate, citrus peel, eucalyptus, and coriander.
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Style: Herbal, earthy, with a bitter-green finish reminiscent of mate.
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Reputation: A uniquely Uruguayan gin, celebrated for tying national culture to global gin trends.
2. La Isla Gin – The Coastal Spirit
Distillery: Maldonado (near Punta del Este)
Produced on Uruguay’s Atlantic coast, La Isla Gin emphasizes maritime botanicals.
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Botanicals: Sea fennel, citrus, rosemary, and wild herbs.
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Style: Fresh, coastal, and aromatic.
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Reputation: Popular in beach bars and resorts, known as “the gin of Punta del Este.”
3. Destilería Oceánica Gin – Small-Batch Innovation
Distillery: Canelones
A boutique distillery producing gin with Atlantic botanicals.
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Botanicals: Juniper, lavender, lemon verbena, and pink pepper.
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Style: Fragrant and floral, with Mediterranean influence.
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Reputation: Loved by mixologists for its balanced, elegant style.
4. Montevideo Dry Gin – Urban Craft Expression
Produced in small batches in Uruguay’s capital.
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Botanicals: Juniper, citrus, anise, and herbal notes from the Pampas.
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Style: Classic dry gin with a South American touch.
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Reputation: Found in bars and restaurants across Montevideo, pairing well with premium tonics.
5. Other Emerging Gins
Several micro-distilleries are experimenting with gins infused with plum, peach, eucalyptus, and mate flowers, but distribution is still very limited.
Imported Gin Brands in Uruguay
Imported gins remain important, especially in urban and tourist markets:
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Beefeater, Gordon’s, Tanqueray – The most widely consumed international brands.
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Bombay Sapphire – A staple in cocktail bars.
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Hendrick’s – Popular in upscale venues, often garnished with cucumber or herbs.
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Spanish Gins (Larios, Gin Mare, Nordés, Puerto de Indias) – Strong presence due to cultural ties with Spain.
Tonics in Uruguay
1. Schweppes Tonic Water
The most widely available tonic, found in supermarkets and bars.
2. Fever-Tree (Imported Premium)
Highly popular in Montevideo’s mixology bars and in Punta del Este’s luxury resorts.
3. Local Alternatives
Some bartenders use soda water with citrus or herbal infusions, reflecting Uruguay’s improvisational style and connection to yerba mate culture.
Uruguay’s Gin & Tonic Culture Today
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Montevideo Scene: Cocktail bars in the capital feature G&T menus with both imported and local gins.
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Punta del Este Luxury: Beach resorts serve elaborate gin & tonics in Spanish-style balloon glasses, catering to tourists.
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Serving Style: Large glasses, lots of ice, premium tonics, and herbal garnishes.
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Garnishes: Citrus slices, eucalyptus leaves, rosemary sprigs, or even yerba mate leaves.
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Cultural Identity: Uruguayan gin bridges mate culture, coastal influences, and cosmopolitan cocktail trends.
Conclusion
Uruguay may not yet rival Argentina or Brazil in terms of gin production, but it has created distinctive artisanal gins that highlight its culture and landscape. With unique brands like Gin Mate, coastal expressions like La Isla Gin, and boutique labels like Destilería Oceánica and Montevideo Dry Gin, Uruguay is building its own gin identity.
Paired with Schweppes or Fever-Tree, and garnished with mate leaves, citrus, or herbs, a Uruguayan gin & tonic offers a refreshing and authentic South American twist.
For gin enthusiasts, sipping a G&T in Uruguay is both a cosmopolitan experience and a celebration of the country’s natural flavors and traditions.
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