South Africa has a long history in alcohol production, with an internationally renowned wine industry and breweries that have been around for generations.
It wasn’t until more recently, however, that the craft industry took off, with more and more locally-produced spirits hitting our shelves. With gin being the *ultimate* refreshing summertime drink, here are the local craft gins available at Market Liquors to sip on this season and how to enjoy them.
Chin chin!
1. Gin Society Blood Orange Gin
Blood oranges sourced from Sicily give this local bevvie its bright orange hue. Give
this drink some festive flair this summer by sipping it with cinnamon stick garnish.
2. Inverroche Amber Gin
Double-distilled in a craft distillery in Stillbaai in the Cape, this amber-hued gin is
infused with coastal fynbos. Pair the delicate floral notes with a simple orange-peel
garnish.
3. Cruxland Gin
This homegrown London-style gin is infused with truffles found in the Kalahari and
other indigenous botanicals which gives it an earthy flavour, perfect for sipping neat.
4. Six Dogs Blue Gin
This was the first blue gin in South Africa, with the colour deriving from the addition
of blue pea flower. Mix it with tonic and it will turn pink for a festive party trick!
5. Monks Mary Jane Gin
Made using hemp from the cannabis plant, this award-winning drink won’t get you
high but will hit the spot! Its earthy tones are balanced with the addition of a simple
citrus slice.
6. Musgrave Original Gin
Inspired by the ancient African Spice Route, this aromatic gin is the ideal base for an
elevated G&T. Garnish it with a slice of pink grapefruit, sprig of rosemary or a bunch
of basil.
7. 48 Ivory Gin
A premium gin that is aged in oak barrels for a smoky finish, this spirit contains hints
of vanilla and naartjie flavours. Savour it the classic way – with tonic water and
cucumber slices.
8. Inverroche Verdant Gin
With both floral and spicy notes, this sophisticated gin boasts notes of fynbos from
the Cape Floral Kingdom. Serve it with a curl of lemon zest or a dehydrated lemon
slice.
9. Six Dogs Karoo Gin
What makes this local craft gin unique are the indigenous florals, including Karoo
thorn flower, lemon buchu and wild lavender. Garnish yours with an orange rind or a
wedge of lime.
10. Musgrave Pink Gin
This pretty gin contains rose water and other sensorial notes, including African
ginger and cardamom. It is best enjoyed with some pink peppercorns and a sprig of
thyme.
