Meghalaya's Rain-Kissed Gin Makes Global Debut

Shillong:A distinctive craft gin sourced from the rain-drenched hills of Meghalaya has become the first alcoholic beverage from Northeast India to make its mark on the global stage. The spirit, which captures the essence of the region’s lush environment, has entered select markets across the European Union, with expansion plans targeting the United Kingdom, Japan, and Thailand later this year.Crafted near Cherrapunji and Mawsynram—two of the rainiest locations on Earth—the gin is distilled in small batches using traditional copper stills. The result is a product deeply rooted in its place of origin, both in taste and identity.Mayukh Hazarika, founder and CEO of the brand behind Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin, sees this as a turning point not just for the company but for the broader region. “This gin tells the story of our landscape, culture, and biodiversity. It’s incredible to see how that story is being embraced beyond India,” Hazarika shared.What sets this gin apart is its innovative blend of locally sourced botanicals. Indigenous ingredients like Kaji Nemu (a native lemon), Khasi mandarin, Sohmarit pepper, smoked black cardamom, and pine-smoked tea contribute to a layered, aromatic flavour that connoisseurs find both exotic and refined.Adding to its uniqueness is the eco-conscious packaging—reusable military-grade steel containers replace traditional glass bottles. This design choice not only reduces environmental impact but also echoes the utilitarian aesthetics of Northeast Indian heritage.The launch comes as the global gin market experiences a revival, with increasing demand for artisanal labels that celebrate local ingredients and cultural narratives. India’s craft spirits industry has been catching up, especially in urban centers where premium domestic brands are gaining traction.Supportive government policies and a growing ecosystem for agro-entrepreneurs have helped navigate the challenges typically faced by producers in remote regions like Meghalaya. Industry experts believe this success could pave the way for other underrepresented Indian regions to bring their unique offerings to international audiences.With over a dozen international awards under its belt, this gin exemplifies how local innovation and storytelling can capture the imagination of the global palate.