Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin was launched in 2018 by Radico Khaitan, one of the oldest whisky distillers in India and one of the largest alcohol distillers in Asia. With two facilities, one in Rampur and one in Maharashtra, Radico Khaitain has a total distillation capacity of over 13 million litres per month, although their gin is made in relatively small batches at present. Botanicals from across India are used and Jaisalmer Gin is named after the city of Jaisalmer (known as 'The Golden City') in the heart of the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. Jaisalmer is a former medieval trading centre and is best known for Jaisalmer Fort, a sprawling hilltop citadel which surrounds the ornate Maharaja's Palace and intricate Jain temples. The fort is depicted on the logo and bottle above a Blackbuck (Indian Antelope) in reference to the Jaisalmer State coat of arms.
- Botanicals: 11 including juniper, cubeb, caraway seeds, vetiver, lemongrass, sweet orange peel, lemon peel, Darjeeling green tea. Base Spirit: Rice / Grain.
- Serving Suggestions: Gin & Tonic with a garnish of Orange or Orange Peel, or in a Negroni.
- Tasting Notes: Aromas of juniper, citrus peels, aromatic spice and tea notes. Palate: piney juniper, orange, lemon and spice. Lingering, dry finish with tea notes, coriander seeds and peppery cubeb.
The Gin Guide Review: Jaisalmer Gin combines a well-constructed core of classic botanicals together with contemporary layers that connect it neatly with India, giving it character and a sense of place. When neat, it's fragrant on the nose and flavoursome on the palate, with plentiful piney juniper, citrus and spice. Peppery cubeb and citrusy coriander seeds lead into the finish with lingering dry tea and sweet citrus notes. With the addition of tonic, the impressive balance of flavours is highlighted further and brighter citrus notes emerge too. There's a pleasing level of complexity and depth to Jaisalmer Gin and it's a gin that certainly puts India firmly on the gin map.
