India’s Diverse World of Craft Spirits
India has a long history with herbs and spices, and this heritage is now inspiring exciting new drinks. One standout brand is Peak Spirits, known for its Jin Jiji dry gin. This gin is special because it blends local ingredients like Darjeeling tea and wild Himalayan juniper, highlighting India’s rich botanical diversity.
The Journey of Peak Spirits
Ansh Khanna founded Peak Spirits after traveling to Italy and Uttarakhand. His love for wine grew during these trips, leading him to study wine management in the U.S. While working in Californian wineries, he saw the potential for quality spirits in India. In 2018, he teamed up with Master Sommelier Ken Fredrickson to start Peak Spirits.
They chose Uttarakhand for its abundance of local botanicals. After developing around forty recipes, they launched their first products—a single malt whiskey named Kamet and the well-loved Jin Jiji gin. They began by exporting to the U.S., navigating various challenges like supply chain issues and customs regulations to establish their brand internationally.
Jin Jiji: A Unique Taste
Jin Jiji is made in small batches using copper pot distillation. It features a blend of Indian botanicals, including wild Himalayan juniper, tulsi (holy basil), chamomile, coriander, angelica root, and cashew nut. The addition of Darjeeling tea gives it a distinctive flavor, combining smoothness with subtle spice and floral hints. The name “Jin Jiji” is derived from “Jijivisha,” a Hindi term that means the longing for life.
With an alcohol content of 43%, this gin is crafted from 100% wheat-based neutral grain spirit sourced from West Bengal. It proudly avoids artificial colors or additives, ensuring a pure drinking experience.
Recognition on the Global Stage
Jin Jiji received significant acclaim, winning the Spirit of the Year award and a Gold Medal at the London Spirits Competition in 2025. It quickly climbed the ranks to become one of the world’s highest-rated gins. Peak Spirits has reached over one million customers since launching, aiming to elevate the drinking experience in India with more crafted beverage options. What started as a small team of three has grown to 25 employees, reflecting their rapid progress in the industry.
The Future of Indian Craft Spirits
The rise of Peak Spirits highlights India’s potential in the craft spirits market. Their focus on local ingredients and high-quality production sets an inspiring example for other startups. Ansh Khanna and his team remain dedicated to pushing the boundaries of Indian spirits, weaving stories that resonate both locally and globally.
As Indian craft gins gain popularity, Jin Jiji stands out as a premium choice, capturing the essence of India’s culture and vibrant spirit.
Recent statistics indicate a growing trend in craft alcohol consumption globally, with interest in unique, locally-produced spirits on the rise. This shift is driving more consumers to seek out distinctive flavors, making it an exciting time for brands like Peak Spirits to thrive. The craft spirits movement, fueled by a desire for authenticity and quality, continues to reshape market trends.
To learn more about the craft spirits revolution, check out resources from the American Distilling Institute, which provides insights and statistics on craft distillation trends.
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