Tuesday, July 24, 2018

H Famous Swedish Gin Brands

The Most Famous Gin and Tonic Brands from Sweden

Sweden, a country celebrated for its design, innovation, and nature, has in recent years become a serious player in the world of gin and tonic. While Sweden’s global reputation has long rested on vodka (thanks to brands like Absolut), the Scandinavian nation has embraced gin with a distinct Nordic touch. Swedish gin distillers draw inspiration from their environment, using botanicals such as lingonberry, elderflower, spruce, dill, and coriander to create spirits that reflect the country’s landscapes and traditions. Alongside gin, Sweden has also nurtured premium tonic water brands, making the gin & tonic a staple of contemporary Swedish bar culture.

Famous Swedish Gin Brands

1. Hernö Gin – The Pioneer and Global Star

Founded: 2011, Härnösand (Ångermanland)

Hernö Distillery is the crown jewel of Swedish gin and arguably the most famous in all of Scandinavia. It was founded by Jon Hillgren and quickly rose to international fame.

Recognition: Hernö is the most awarded craft gin producer in Europe, earning accolades from the World Gin Awards and IWSC.
Flagship Gins:
- Hernö Dry Gin: A classic London Dry style with Nordic elegance.
- Hernö Old Tom Gin: A slightly sweeter style that has won global “World’s Best” awards.
- Hernö Navy Strength: A bold, higher-proof gin with intense botanicals.
Botanicals: Juniper, meadowsweet, lingonberry, and fresh lemon peel define Hernö’s signature flavor.
Influence: Hernö put Sweden on the global gin map, proving that Nordic craft distillers could compete with historic British houses.

2. Stockholms Bränneri – The Urban Innovator

Founded: 2016, Södermalm, Stockholm

Stockholms Bränneri is Sweden’s first urban craft distillery, based in a renovated Jaguar workshop in Södermalm. It has become a cultural icon in Stockholm’s cocktail scene.

Philosophy: Minimalist Scandinavian design and organic production methods.
Popular Variants:
- Dry Gin: Classic juniper-forward with fresh citrus.
- Pink Gin: Infused with rhubarb and rose petals for a floral twist.
- Oak Gin: Aged in Swedish oak casks, creating a whiskey-gin hybrid.
Cultural Identity: Its branding captures the Scandinavian aesthetic—clean, modern, and elegant.

3. Spirit of Hven – Island Distilling Excellence

Founded: 2008, Hven Island (between Sweden and Denmark)

Spirit of Hven Backafallsbyn Distillery is one of the smallest independent distilleries in Europe, producing both whisky and gin.

Signature Gin: Organic Gin, made from certified organic grains.
Botanicals: Swedish wheat spirit infused with lemon peel, cardamom, and local herbs.
Distilling Style: Uses traditional copper pot stills, focusing on small-batch artisanal quality.
Reputation: Known internationally for its dedication to sustainability and craftsmanship.

4. Norrbottens Destilleri – Arctic Innovation

Located in northern Sweden, Norrbottens Destilleri specializes in creating spirits that reflect the Arctic landscape.

Notable Product: Norrbottens Dry Gin, featuring cloudberries, lingonberries, and northern botanicals.
Identity: Brings the essence of Sweden’s forests and tundras into the gin world.
Recognition: Increasingly popular with mixologists who want to experiment with Nordic terroir in cocktails.

5. Hellström Gin – Östergötland Purity

Founded by Peter Hellström, this brand emphasizes local botanicals and a traditional distilling approach.

Botanicals: Swedish juniper, coriander, elderflower, and lingonberries.
Style: A dry gin with a balance of citrus and floral notes.
Cultural Role: Strongly marketed as a “Swedish gin for Swedes,” it has become popular in local bars and restaurants.

6. Röda Kapellet – The Experimental Collective

A newer brand with strong ties to Swedish bar culture, Röda Kapellet is known for its limited editions and playful approach to gin-making.

Flavors: Often incorporates unique seasonal botanicals, from spruce tips to apple blossoms.
Reputation: Not as internationally famous as Hernö or Stockholms Bränneri, but beloved among Swedish bartenders for experimentation.

Famous Swedish Tonic Water Brands

1. Ekobryggeriet Nordic Tonic – The Organic Leader

Founded in Sweden, Ekobryggeriet specializes in organic tonics crafted with Scandinavian flavors.

Flavors: Elderflower, Rhubarb, Spruce Shoots, and Classic Indian.
Design: Sleek bottles and cans that match the Nordic minimalism of Swedish gin brands.
Pairings: Often used with Hernö or Stockholms Bränneri gins to create truly local gin & tonics.

2. Oh Deer (Popular in Sweden and Denmark)

Although originally Danish, Oh Deer Tonic has carved out a strong presence in Sweden. Its variety of flavors and youthful branding appeal to younger gin enthusiasts.

3. Global Premium Tonics in Sweden

Swedish bars also frequently stock international tonic leaders like Fever-Tree and Fentimans, which pair seamlessly with craft gins such as Hernö or Spirit of Hven.

Sweden’s Gin & Tonic Culture Today

The gin and tonic in Sweden has become a symbol of modern Nordic lifestyle—clean, natural, and refined.

Design Influence: Bottles are minimalist, reflecting Sweden’s global reputation for design.
Botanical Identity: Local plants—lingonberries, elderflower, spruce, and meadowsweet—are a point of pride, grounding gin in Swedish nature.
Bar Culture: Cities like Stockholm, Gothenburg, and Malmö now host gin festivals and cocktail competitions, often highlighting Swedish gin brands.
Global Appeal: Swedish gins like Hernö are now exported worldwide, where they compete with the best from the UK and Spain.

Conclusion

Sweden may be a latecomer compared to England or Holland in the world of gin, but its contribution is now impossible to overlook. With Hernö Gin leading the charge as one of the world’s most awarded distilleries, supported by innovators like Stockholms Bränneri, Spirit of Hven, Norrbottens, and Hellström, Swedish gin has found its place on the international stage.

Paired with local tonics such as Ekobryggeriet Nordic Tonic, the Swedish gin & tonic has become a cultural export, combining purity, Nordic nature, and Scandinavian design. For gin lovers, exploring Swedish brands is a journey into both craftsmanship and the landscapes of Scandinavia, one glass at a time.

Wednesday, July 18, 2018

R A Short History of Gin in Brazil

The Typical Brazilian Gin Tonic – A Tropical Reinvention

Brazil is famous worldwide for its cachaça and caipirinha, but in recent years, gin has captured the imagination of Brazilian bartenders and drinkers alike. The “gin tônica”, as it is called in Portuguese, has become one of the trendiest cocktails in São Paulo, Rio de Janeiro, and Brasília, where rooftop bars and beach lounges have embraced gin culture with a distinctly Brazilian twist.

What makes a Brazilian gin tonic stand out is its vibrant use of tropical fruits, herbs, and spices, turning a simple drink into a colorful and aromatic experience.

A Short History of Gin in Brazil

Gin entered Brazil mostly through European imports, but the real boom came in the 2010s, when international gin culture exploded worldwide. Brazilians, known for their creativity with cocktails, quickly adapted the classic British gin and tonic into something livelier, reflecting the country’s biodiversity and tropical lifestyle.

Today, Brazil not only consumes imported gins like Tanqueray, Beefeater, and Bombay Sapphire, but also produces its own artisanal gins infused with native botanicals such as açaí, cupuaçu, catuaba bark, pink peppercorn, cacao, and Amazonian herbs.

Essential Elements of a Brazilian Gin Tonic

A typical Brazilian gin tonic emphasizes freshness, color, and tropical aromas.

1. The Glass

Like in Spain, Brazilians favor the balloon-shaped copa glass, ideal for holding ice, fruit, and herbs.

2. The Ice

Large ice cubes, often filling the glass to the top, to keep the drink refreshing in Brazil’s warm climate.

3. The Gin

Brazil has both imported and domestic gins, but popular choices include:

Amazzoni Gin – An award-winning Brazilian craft gin made with Amazonian botanicals (cacao, Brazil nuts, maxixe, and pink pepper).
Arpo Gin – Known for its citrus-forward and herbal character.
Virga Gin – Crafted in São Paulo, highlighting tropical flavors.
International Brands (Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s) remain widely used as well.

4. The Tonic

Schweppes is the most common tonic across Brazil.
Fever-Tree and 1724 Tonic Water are popular in upscale bars.
Some local soda makers have also launched craft tonic waters flavored with citrus or herbs.

5. The Garnish

Brazilian garnishes are bold and tropical, often doubling as flavor enhancers:

Fruits: passionfruit (maracujá), mango, pineapple, açaí berries, orange slices.
Herbs: mint, basil, rosemary.
Spices: pink peppercorns (a signature Brazilian touch), cinnamon sticks.

A Typical Brazilian Gin Tonic Recipe – Step by Step

Ingredients:

50 ml (1.7 oz) Brazilian gin (e.g., Amazzoni, Arpo, or Virga)
150 ml (5 oz) chilled tonic water
Balloon glass filled with large ice cubes
1 slice of orange or a few passionfruit seeds
Garnish: sprig of rosemary or a few pink peppercorns

Preparation:

Chill the Glass
Fill the copa glass with ice cubes to the top, stirring briefly to chill the glass.
Add the Gin
Pour 50 ml of gin over the ice.
Add Fruit
Drop in a slice of orange, or a spoonful of passionfruit pulp for a tropical kick.
Pour the Tonic
Slowly add 150 ml of tonic water, letting it flow gently down a bar spoon to preserve carbonation.
Garnish
Finish with a sprig of rosemary or a few pink peppercorns to add aroma and visual appeal.
Serve Fresh
Enjoy immediately — vibrant, aromatic, and unmistakably Brazilian.

Flavor Profile of a Brazilian Gin Tonic

Tropical and Fruity – Passionfruit, orange, and mango flavors stand out.
Herbal and Aromatic – Rosemary, basil, or mint provide freshness.
Balanced Bitterness – Tonic’s quinine balances the fruit’s sweetness.
Refreshing and Colorful – Designed for warm weather and festive occasions.

Why the Brazilian Gin Tonic Stands Out

Tropical Ingredients: Using fruits like passionfruit and mango gives it a unique identity.
Visual Appeal: Bright colors and garnishes make it Instagram-ready.
Cultural Identity: Reflects Brazil’s love for vibrant, refreshing, and social drinks.
Versatility: Served in beach clubs, city rooftops, and casual home gatherings alike.

Conclusion

The typical Brazilian gin tonic is more than just a cocktail — it is a celebration of Brazil’s tropical abundance and creative spirit. Whether prepared with local craft gins like Amazzoni and Virga, or with international classics like Tanqueray, the Brazilian version of the gin & tonic shines with bold garnishes, exotic fruits, and aromatic herbs.

Served in a balloon glass, packed with ice, and finished with passionfruit, orange, rosemary, or pink peppercorns, the Brazilian gin tonic captures the essence of the country’s vibrant culture.

For gin lovers, it is a refreshing reminder that even the most classic cocktails can be transformed by local flavors and a touch of Brazilian energy.

R A Short History of the Spanish Gin Tonic

The Typical Spanish Gin Tonic – A Mediterranean Reinvention

The gin and tonic may have originated in Britain, but it was in Spain where the drink was transformed into an art form. Known simply as gin-tonic (without the “and”), the Spanish version of this cocktail has become a global reference point for its theatrical presentation, Mediterranean ingredients, and refreshing character.

From tapas bars in Madrid to seaside lounges in Barcelona and luxury rooftop bars in Ibiza, the Spanish gin tonic is celebrated not just as a drink, but as an experience.

A Short History of the Spanish Gin Tonic

Spain’s love affair with gin began in the 20th century, with the influence of British culture in Gibraltar and along the Mediterranean coast. However, the true gin-tonic revolution took place in the 1990s and 2000s, when Spanish chefs and bartenders began experimenting with the cocktail in new ways.

Rather than serving it in a narrow highball glass with a lemon wedge, Spaniards reinvented the gin tonic with balloon glasses, premium tonics, elaborate garnishes, and artisanal gins. This approach turned the simple G&T into a gastronomic experience, aligning with Spain’s culinary creativity.

The Essential Elements of a Spanish Gin Tonic

A typical Spanish gin tonic is defined by its presentation, balance, and the use of fresh, aromatic ingredients.

1. The Glass

Served in a large balloon-shaped copa de balón glass.
The shape allows the aromas of botanicals and garnishes to circulate, much like a wine glass.

2. The Ice

Large, crystal-clear ice cubes, filling the glass to the top.
This ensures the drink stays cold and dilutes slowly.

3. The Gin

Spaniards love variety, and Spain has one of the largest selections of gin brands in the world.
Common choices include:
- Gin Mare – Mediterranean gin with olives, rosemary, and basil.
- Nordés – Galician gin made with Albariño grapes and botanicals like hibiscus.
- Puerto de Indias – Andalusian gin famous for its strawberry flavor.
- Larios 12 – A classic Spanish gin with citrus-forward notes.
- International gins (Tanqueray, Bombay Sapphire, Hendrick’s) are also popular.

4. The Tonic

Spain pioneered the premium tonic movement, elevating the mixer to equal importance as gin.
Typical brands:
- Fever-Tree
- Schweppes Premium Mixers
- 1724 Tonic Water (crafted with Andean quinine, popular in high-end bars)

5. The Garnish

This is where Spanish gin tonics truly shine. Instead of just a lemon wedge, bartenders use aromatic garnishes that match the gin’s botanicals:

Citrus (lime, lemon, orange peel, grapefruit)
Herbs (rosemary, thyme, basil, mint)
Fruits (strawberries, apple slices, pomegranate seeds)
Exotic touches (juniper berries, pink peppercorns, cucumber, hibiscus petals)

The Typical Spanish Gin Tonic Recipe – Step by Step

Ingredients:

50 ml (1.7 oz) premium gin
150 ml (5 oz) premium tonic water (chilled)
Large balloon glass filled with ice
Garnish of choice (to match gin botanicals: citrus peel, rosemary, berries, or cucumber)

Preparation:

Chill the Glass
Fill the balloon glass with ice and stir gently to chill it. Discard any melted water.
Add the Gin
Pour 50 ml of your chosen gin over the ice.
Add Aromatics
Place your garnish inside — for example, a strip of grapefruit peel and a sprig of rosemary for Gin Mare.
Pour the Tonic
Slowly add 150 ml of tonic water by letting it slide down a bar spoon. This preserves the carbonation and prevents overmixing.
Stir Gently
One slow stir is enough — the tonic should remain crisp and fizzy.
Serve Immediately
The gin tonic should be fresh, aromatic, and visually stunning.

Flavor Profile of a Spanish Gin Tonic

Refreshing: Crisp from the tonic and chilled glass.
Botanical: Herbs and garnishes amplify the gin’s natural botanicals.
Aromatic: The balloon glass captures scents, making aroma part of the experience.
Balanced: Less sweet than many cocktails, relying on bitterness, freshness, and subtle citrus.

Why the Spanish Gin Tonic Stands Out

Presentation: Balloon glasses and fresh garnishes make it visually striking.
Premium Ingredients: Equal emphasis on gin and tonic quality.
Pairing with Food: Ideal alongside tapas, seafood, or cured meats.
Innovation: Spain continues to experiment, creating gin tonics that resemble gourmet dishes in their complexity.

Conclusion

The typical Spanish gin tonic has redefined the world’s perception of this classic drink. By elevating its presentation, pairing it with gourmet garnishes, and embracing premium tonics, Spain transformed a simple British cocktail into a Mediterranean icon.

Whether you choose a Gin Mare with rosemary and grapefruit, a Nordés with hibiscus and apple, or a Puerto de Indias with strawberries, the Spanish gin tonic is always more than a drink — it is a celebration of flavor, aroma, and lifestyle.

For gin enthusiasts, sipping a gin tonic in Spain is not just about refreshment — it’s about experiencing a culinary ritual, a visual spectacle, and a symbol of modern Spanish culture.

R A Short History of the Classic Gin & Tonic

The Classical Gin and Tonic – A Timeless Recipe

Few cocktails in the world have achieved the universal recognition and timeless elegance of the gin and tonic. From its colonial roots in the tropics to its modern reinvention in cosmopolitan bars, the gin & tonic remains one of the simplest yet most refreshing mixed drinks ever created. While there are countless variations today — infused with exotic botanicals, fruit garnishes, and craft tonics — the classical gin and tonic recipe remains the benchmark for balance, crispness, and sophistication.

A Short History of the Classic Gin & Tonic

The origins of the gin & tonic go back to the 18th and 19th centuries, when British soldiers and officials stationed in India faced the risk of malaria. Quinine, a bitter compound derived from cinchona bark, was used as a treatment. To make quinine more palatable, it was mixed with water, sugar, and soda, eventually leading to tonic water.

To improve the taste further, officers added gin, creating what we now know as the gin & tonic. From this medical necessity, a refreshing cocktail was born. By the mid-19th century, the gin & tonic was entrenched in British colonial life, and later became a global classic, served from London clubs to Caribbean resorts.

The Essential Elements of a Classical Gin and Tonic

A true classical gin & tonic is all about simplicity and balance. Unlike many modern cocktails, it requires only a few high-quality ingredients.

1. The Gin

Traditionally, the gin used is a London Dry Gin, known for its crisp juniper-forward profile. Classic choices include:

Beefeater
Tanqueray
Gordon’s

These gins offer the clean, herbal backbone that defines a proper G&T.

2. The Tonic Water

The tonic is equally important. Historically, tonic water was bitter due to high quinine levels. Modern versions are lighter and more refreshing. For the classic recipe:

Schweppes Indian Tonic Water is the standard traditional choice.
Fever-Tree Indian Tonic is a premium alternative.

3. The Garnish

The classic garnish is a wedge of lime. Lemon can also be used, but lime became the international standard thanks to its slightly sharper acidity and vibrant aroma.

The Classical Gin & Tonic Recipe – Step by Step

Ingredients:

50 ml (1.7 oz) London Dry Gin
100–150 ml (3.5–5 oz) Indian Tonic Water (chilled)
1 wedge of fresh lime
Plenty of ice cubes (large, solid ice is best to avoid dilution)

Preparation:

Chill the Glass
Use a highball glass (the classic vessel) or a balloon-style copa glass (popular in Spain). Place the glass in the freezer for a few minutes, or fill it with ice to chill it thoroughly.
Add the Ice
Fill the glass to the top with large, fresh ice cubes. The more ice, the slower it melts, keeping the drink crisp.
Pour the Gin
Measure 50 ml of London Dry Gin and pour it over the ice. This ensures proper strength and balance.
Add the Tonic
Slowly pour 100–150 ml of chilled tonic water into the glass. To preserve carbonation, tilt the glass or pour gently down a bar spoon.
Garnish
Squeeze a wedge of lime lightly over the drink, then drop it into the glass. Avoid muddling or over-squeezing — the lime should complement, not overpower, the gin’s botanicals.
Stir Lightly
Give the drink one gentle stir to combine, being careful not to lose carbonation.

Flavor Profile

A true classical gin & tonic should be:

Crisp and Refreshing – with the effervescence of tonic.
Juniper-forward – the gin’s herbal base shining through.
Balanced Bitterness – quinine’s sharp edge softened by citrus.
Aromatic – a subtle bouquet of lime oils mingling with gin botanicals.

Serving Traditions

British Tradition: Served in a tall highball glass with ice and lime, simple and direct.
Spanish Gin-Tonic (Modern): Balloon copa glasses, elaborate garnishes, and premium tonics (a trend influencing global cocktail culture today).
Colonial Legacy: Once seen as a medicinal necessity, now celebrated as an elegant cocktail worldwide.

Why the Classical Gin & Tonic Endures

Despite endless variations, the classical gin & tonic recipe endures for three main reasons:

Simplicity: Only a few ingredients, requiring no complicated tools.
Balance: The perfect harmony of bitter, herbal, citrus, and carbonation.
Versatility: Ideal as a pre-dinner aperitif, a summer refreshment, or an all-season cocktail.

Conclusion

The classical gin and tonic is more than just a drink — it is a story of history, medicine, empire, and modern mixology. With London Dry Gin, Indian Tonic Water, a wedge of lime, and plenty of ice, it offers a timeless template for refreshment and sophistication.

While modern bartenders experiment with exotic garnishes and artisanal tonics, the classic recipe remains the gold standard — a simple yet elegant cocktail that has stood the test of time.

For anyone exploring gin culture, mastering the classical gin & tonic is the essential first step: crisp, balanced, and endlessly refreshing.

H A Short History of Gin in Serbia

The Most Famous Gin and Tonic Brands from Serbia

Serbia is internationally known for its rakija (fruit brandy), wine, and beer traditions, but in recent years it has also become part of the global gin renaissance. Driven by a new wave of craft distillers and Serbia’s thriving bar culture in Belgrade, gin has emerged as a stylish, urban spirit.

What makes Serbian gin unique is its reliance on local botanicals from the Balkans — wild juniper berries, plums, raspberries, linden flowers, mountain herbs, and even peppers. Gin & tonic has quickly gained popularity in Serbia, especially in Belgrade’s trendy Dorćol and Savamala districts, where cocktail culture is booming.

A Short History of Gin in Serbia

For most of the 20th century, gin in Serbia meant imports like Gordon’s, Beefeater, and Tanqueray, found in hotels, expat circles, and upscale bars. Local production was virtually nonexistent, as rakija remained the national spirit.

The change came in the 2010s, when Serbian entrepreneurs and master distillers — inspired by craft spirit trends in Europe — began experimenting with small-batch gins. Today, Serbia has several artisanal gins that reflect the country’s terroir, alongside international brands that remain widely consumed.

Famous Serbian Gin Brands

1. Monologue Dry Gin – The Serbian Flagship

Distillery: Monologue Spirits, Belgrade

Monologue is one of Serbia’s first premium craft gin brands.

Botanicals: Juniper, linden blossom, chamomile, wild mint, raspberry leaves, and Balkan spices.
Style: Smooth, aromatic, floral, with subtle fruitiness.
Reputation: A benchmark Serbian gin, showcased in Belgrade’s top cocktail bars.

2. Kraljevo Dry Gin – The Royal Connection

Distillery: Kraljevo region, Central Serbia

A boutique gin inspired by Serbia’s royal heritage and natural landscape.

Botanicals: Juniper, plum blossom, thyme, and local mountain herbs.
Style: Herbal and crisp, with hints of plum sweetness.
Reputation: A small-batch gin, popular among collectors and enthusiasts.

3. Juniperus Balkan Gin – Tradition in a Bottle

Produced in limited quantities, this gin focuses on wild juniper harvested in Serbia’s mountains.

Botanicals: Juniper, forest herbs, pepper, and citrus peel.
Style: Earthy, robust, with a bold Balkan identity.
Reputation: Valued for its authenticity and strong connection to Serbian nature.

4. Mikser Gin – The Belgrade Urban Spirit

Created in partnership with Belgrade’s cultural and nightlife scene, Mikser Gin is aimed at younger gin drinkers.

Botanicals: Juniper, citrus, basil, and Balkan berries.
Style: Fresh and light, designed for cocktails.
Reputation: Trendy, associated with Belgrade’s modern mixology.

5. Other Emerging Serbian Gins

Several micro-distilleries in Vojvodina and southern Serbia are experimenting with gins infused with lavender, plum, raspberry, and honey. These remain niche but highlight the country’s creative potential.

Imported Gin Brands in Serbia

Imported brands still dominate Serbia’s gin market:

Beefeater, Gordon’s, Tanqueray – Widely available.
Bombay Sapphire – A premium option in Belgrade’s cocktail bars.
Hendrick’s – Popular among mixologists for cucumber-based serves.
Spanish Gins (Gin Mare, Nordés, Puerto de Indias) – Increasingly trendy in upscale Mediterranean restaurants.

Tonics in Serbia

1. Schweppes Tonic Water

The most common and widely available tonic brand in Serbia.

2. Fever-Tree (Imported Premium)

Highly popular in Belgrade’s upscale cocktail lounges and gin bars.

3. Local Craft Tonics (Emerging)

A few Serbian soda makers are experimenting with small-batch tonic waters infused with herbs like mint, linden, or raspberry, though these are not yet mainstream.

Serbia’s Gin & Tonic Culture Today

Belgrade Hotspot: The capital’s nightlife has embraced gin & tonic, with gin menus in bars like Beton Hala, Dorćol Platz, and Savamala clubs.
Serving Style: Inspired by the Spanish gin-tonic tradition, often served in balloon glasses with elaborate garnishes.
Garnishes: Plum slices, raspberries, herbs (mint, thyme, basil), and citrus peels.
Cultural Identity: Serbian gin combines Western gin-making techniques with Balkan fruits and herbs, creating a unique regional style.
Trend: Younger generations view gin & tonic as a sophisticated alternative to rakija or beer, especially in urban settings.

Conclusion

Serbia may be new to gin production, but it has already developed a distinct craft identity. With pioneering brands like Monologue Dry Gin, regional expressions like Kraljevo Dry Gin, and experimental labels like Juniperus Balkan and Mikser Gin, Serbia is building a strong reputation in the Balkans’ gin scene.

Paired with Schweppes or Fever-Tree, and garnished with plum, raspberry, or mountain herbs, Serbian gin & tonics offer a refreshing fusion of tradition and modernity.

For gin enthusiasts, sipping a Serbian G&T is not just about the drink — it’s an exploration of the Balkans’ landscapes, flavors, and cosmopolitan spirit.

Thursday, July 12, 2018

A Short History of Gin in Paraguay

The Most Famous Gin and Tonic Brands from Paraguay

Paraguay is best known for its caña (sugarcane spirit), tereré (iced yerba mate infusion), and cachaça-style liquors, but in recent years, the country has slowly embraced the global gin trend. While gin production is still small compared to neighboring Brazil and Argentina, Paraguayan distillers are beginning to create artisanal gins infused with yerba mate, tropical fruits, and herbs from the Chaco and Paraná regions.

In Asunción and Encarnación, gin & tonic has become a cosmopolitan cocktail, popular in trendy bars, restaurants, and among younger generations who see it as a sophisticated alternative to beer or rum.

A Short History of Gin in Paraguay

Gin was introduced to Paraguay primarily through Spanish and British influence, arriving via Argentina and Brazil in the late 19th and 20th centuries. For decades, gin was consumed only as an import, with Gordon’s, Beefeater, and Tanqueray dominating the shelves.

The 2010s brought a shift: as Paraguay’s gastronomy and craft alcohol movements expanded, local distillers began experimenting with gin. Drawing on yerba mate, citrus fruits, and Paraguayan herbs, these gins reflect the country’s strong connection to both nature and cultural traditions like tereré.

Famous Paraguayan Gin Brands

1. Yerba Mate Gin – National Identity in a Bottle

Produced in small batches by local distillers, this gin incorporates Paraguay’s most iconic plant: yerba mate.

Botanicals: Juniper, yerba mate, citrus peel, coriander, and eucalyptus.
Style: Herbal, earthy, slightly bitter — echoing the taste of tereré.
Reputation: A true Paraguayan gin, celebrated for its cultural authenticity.

2. Asunción Dry Gin – The Urban Spirit

Crafted in Paraguay’s capital, this gin reflects the city’s growing cocktail scene.

Botanicals: Juniper, grapefruit, orange peel, rosemary, and local herbs.
Style: Fresh, citrus-forward, versatile for cocktails.
Reputation: A boutique gin found in Asunción’s mixology bars and restaurants.

3. Paraná Coast Gin – Inspired by the River

Distilled in southern Paraguay near the Paraná River, this gin highlights local botanicals.

Botanicals: Juniper, lemon verbena, pink pepper, and tropical citrus.
Style: Bright, spicy, and aromatic.
Reputation: Limited in production, but popular in border cities with Argentina and Brazil.

4. Other Emerging Gins

Small experimental gins are being developed by micro-distilleries, often infused with guava, mango, passionfruit, and medicinal herbs. These are still rare but show Paraguay’s potential.

Imported Gin Brands in Paraguay

Like many South American countries, Paraguay’s gin market is dominated by imports:

Beefeater, Gordon’s, Tanqueray – The most widely available.
Bombay Sapphire – Common in upscale restaurants and hotels.
Hendrick’s – A premium choice, paired with cucumber or citrus in G&Ts.
Spanish Gins (Gin Mare, Puerto de Indias, Nordés) – Popular among younger consumers and in Mediterranean-style venues.

Tonics in Paraguay

1. Schweppes Tonic Water

The most accessible and widely available tonic brand in Paraguay.

2. Fever-Tree (Imported Premium)

Favored in Asunción’s high-end cocktail bars, especially Mediterranean and Elderflower varieties.

3. Local Alternatives

In places where tonic is less available, bartenders sometimes substitute with club soda, bitter lemon soda, or herbal infusions (including tereré-based mixers), giving Paraguayan gin & tonics a unique twist.

Paraguay’s Gin & Tonic Culture Today

Asunción Hotspot: Cocktail bars in the capital feature gin prominently, often with creative infusions.
Encarnación & Ciudad del Este: Popular in tourist and nightlife hubs along the river.
Serving Style: Inspired by Spanish gin-tonic culture — large balloon glasses, premium tonics, and elaborate garnishes.
Garnishes: Citrus slices, mint sprigs, yerba mate leaves, guava, or passionfruit.
Cultural Identity: Paraguayan gin highlights a fusion of yerba mate traditions and modern cocktail sophistication.

Conclusion

Paraguay may not yet have the gin reputation of Argentina or Brazil, but it is steadily building a unique identity in the world of gin. With culturally rooted gins like Yerba Mate Gin, urban expressions like Asunción Dry Gin, and regional craft labels like Paraná Coast Gin, the country is blending tradition and innovation.

Paired with Schweppes or Fever-Tree, and garnished with yerba mate, tropical fruits, or citrus, Paraguayan gin & tonics offer a refreshing and distinctly South American experience.

For gin lovers, sipping a Paraguayan G&T is not just about taste — it’s a way to experience the essence of the country’s culture, rivers, and traditions in a single glass.