The Most Famous Gin and Tonic Brands from Argentina
Argentina is internationally renowned for its wine, Malbec in particular, but in recent years it has also emerged as one of South America’s most exciting gin-producing countries. Inspired by the global gin renaissance and fueled by Argentina’s vibrant cocktail culture in Buenos Aires, Rosario, and Córdoba, local distillers have begun crafting gins that combine European distilling traditions with distinctly Argentine ingredients. From Patagonian herbs to citrus from the north and yerba mate, Argentine gins are forging a strong identity on the international stage.
A Short History of Gin in Argentina
Gin was introduced to Argentina by European immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, primarily from Italy, Spain, and Germany. For decades, imported gins like Beefeater, Tanqueray, and Gordon’s dominated the market. But by the 2010s, with the craft spirits boom and a growing bar culture in Buenos Aires, local distillers began creating artisanal gins that reflected Argentina’s diverse landscapes.
Today, Argentina is considered the gin capital of Latin America, with dozens of small producers and several internationally recognized brands.
Famous Argentine Gin Brands
1. Principe de los Apóstoles Mate Gin – The Argentine Icon
Distillery: Sol de los Andes, Misiones
Founded: 2013 by bartender Tato Giovannoni
This gin is the most internationally famous Argentine gin and a true reflection of the country’s identity.
-
Botanicals: Yerba mate (Argentina’s national infusion), pink grapefruit peel, peppermint, eucalyptus, and juniper.
-
Flavor Profile: Herbal, fresh, and slightly bitter, with a distinctive yerba mate backbone.
-
Reputation: Widely exported and considered Argentina’s flagship gin, praised by bartenders worldwide.
2. Bosque Gin – The Patagonian Spirit
Distillery: Patagonia
Bosque Gin was created to capture the essence of Patagonia’s pristine landscapes.
-
Botanicals: Juniper, Patagonian berries, lavender, coriander, and citrus.
-
Variants: Bosque Dry Gin and seasonal editions.
-
Identity: Clean, crisp, and aromatic, reflecting Patagonia’s forests and mountains.
3. Restinga Gin – The Atlantic Coastal Gin
Distillery: Mar del Plata
Restinga is inspired by Argentina’s Atlantic coast and is known for its balance and freshness.
-
Botanicals: Juniper, coriander, orange peel, lemon, and sea herbs.
-
Reputation: One of Argentina’s most awarded gins, recognized internationally.
-
Pairing: Often served with tonic and a slice of grapefruit, highlighting coastal flavors.
4. Heráclito & Macedonio Gin – The Experimental Artisan
Distillery: Buenos Aires
This boutique gin project blends Argentine creativity with European techniques.
-
Variants:
-
Heráclito London Dry – Classic style with local twists.
-
Heráclito & Macedonio Botanic – Infused with Patagonian herbs and spices.
-
-
Reputation: Popular in Argentina’s cocktail bars for innovative flavor combinations.
5. Príncipe Valiente Gin – The Rising Star
A newer craft gin brand with bold marketing and modern identity.
-
Profile: Juniper-forward with floral and citrus notes.
-
Reputation: Gaining attention among young consumers and mixologists.
6. Others Emerging
Argentina’s gin boom has led to dozens of small distillers across the country — from Córdoba to Mendoza — experimenting with botanicals such as lemon verbena, native peppers, and Andean herbs.
Tonic Waters in Argentina
While gin is booming, tonic water has also seen a surge in premium options.
1. Pulpo Blanco Tonic – The Local Favorite
A boutique Argentine tonic water designed to pair with local gins like Apóstoles.
-
Profile: Crisp, balanced bitterness, with subtle herbal notes.
2. Tónica Benjamín – A Craft Mixer
Produced by small-batch beverage makers, this tonic emphasizes natural quinine and low sugar.
3. Imported Premium Tonics
Fever-Tree, Schweppes, and Britvic are also widely available in Argentina’s upscale bars and restaurants, often paired with international gins but increasingly used with local brands.
Argentina’s Gin & Tonic Culture Today
-
Serving Style: Inspired by Spanish gin-tonic culture, Argentina’s bars serve G&Ts in balloon glasses with elaborate garnishes.
-
Garnishes: Grapefruit slices, rosemary sprigs, yerba mate leaves, and Patagonian berries are common.
-
Bar Culture: Buenos Aires is the epicenter, with gin & tonic menus offering dozens of variations.
-
Consumer Trend: Younger generations have embraced gin & tonic as a fashionable alternative to wine and beer.
-
Export Success: Brands like Principe de los Apóstoles and Restinga are now appearing in Europe and North America.
Conclusion
Argentina has transformed itself into the gin capital of Latin America. With iconic brands like Principe de los Apóstoles Mate Gin, regional stars like Bosque Gin from Patagonia and Restinga Gin from the coast, and innovative projects like Heráclito & Macedonio, the country is producing gins that blend local identity with international quality.
Paired with tonics such as Pulpo Blanco or global favorites like Fever-Tree, Argentine gin & tonics are fresh, aromatic, and unmistakably tied to the country’s landscapes and culture.
For enthusiasts, drinking an Argentine gin & tonic is like sipping the essence of the Pampas, Patagonia, and Buenos Aires nightlife — all in one glass.
