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.