Every year on October 19, gin lovers celebrate International Gin and Tonic Day, also known as World Gin and Tonic Day. The drink has a long history in India, where British officers in the 19th century mixed gin with quinine-rich tonic water to make the bitter medicine more palatable. Today, India has moved beyond its role in the G&T’s history to become a producer of premium craft gin. Indian gin brands are bringing local ingredients into the spirit, from Himalayan juniper and Nagpur oranges to kokum, turmeric and mahua flowers. These botanicals give Indian craft gin a distinct character, rooted in the country’s diverse flavours and landscapes.
A good gin and tonic needs just four essentials and that are quality gin, tonic water, plenty of ice and a fresh garnish. With so few ingredients, choosing the right gin makes all the difference. This International Gin and Tonic Day 2026, here are five premium Indian gins worth trying on October 19.
Mohulo is made by Smoke Lab and is promoted as India’s first sipping gin. Its story begins with the mahua flower, a plant treasured by the Baiga tribe of central India for generations. The flower sits beside juniper, coriander, orange blossom, basmati rice and a touch of honey. The gin is made in small batches in copper pot stills. The taste is floral, lightly sweet and gently smoky. For a simple Mohulo and tonic, use a light tonic, lots of ice and a thin orange peel. It is a bold, meaningful way to celebrate India’s own spirit heritage.
Launched in 2018 by Goa-based Nao Spirits, Hapusa takes its name from the Sanskrit word for juniper. The gin uses Himalayan juniper alongside Indian botanicals, including turmeric, to create a distinctive profile with piney notes, earthy warmth and a gentle spice. One of India’s best-known craft gins, Hapusa brings local ingredients to a classic spirit. For a refreshing gin and tonic, pair it with a classic tonic water, plenty of ice and a slice of lime or a few thin strips of ginger.
Greater Than holds a special place in Indian gin history. It was launched in late 2017 is often called India’s first craft gin. It follows the London dry style, which means it is distilled in a copper pot still and made with natural botanicals. Alongside juniper, it uses Indian ingredients such as coriander, lemongrass, ginger and chamomile. The taste is crisp, clean and balanced, with a lively citrus lift. It makes a classic, refreshing G&T. Pour it over ice with a good tonic and a wedge of lemon for a timeless serve.
Cherrapunji Gin takes its name from one of the wettest places on Earth, in the hills of Meghalaya. The brand draws on botanicals from North East India and is meant to reflect the region’s rainfall, greenery and sense of place. It is also often linked with ideas of sustainability and regional pride. The gin offers a fresh, nature-led flavour that feels different from the usual juniper-heavy styles. This makes it a good choice for drinkers who like to try something new. Keep your G&T simple with a neutral tonic, lots of ice and a twist of citrus peel.
AER Gin draws inspiration from Mumbai’s coastal character, bringing a fresh take to the Indian craft gin scene. Its botanical profile includes ingredients such as tamarind, kokum and mangosteen, adding tangy, fruity and mildly tart notes to the spirit. The result is a bright, contemporary gin that offers an alternative to more juniper-forward expressions. For a refreshing gin and tonic, serve AER with tonic water, plenty of ice, fresh lime and a sprig of mint.