India’s First Rainwater Gin, Packaged In Sustainable Steel Bottles, Cherrapunji Wins Double Gold At SIP Awards 2025

Cherrapunji Gin

Image Courtesy: Cherrapunji Craft Gin/Instagram

The market for Indian craft spirits is booming like never before, with new spirits being introduced and receiving accolades for their quality. At the 2025 SIP Awards in California, Cherrapunji Gin made history by winning a Double Gold Medal! The celebration and recognition of this craft spirit at the global stage is a significant moment for the gin makers as well as all of Northeast India.

Cherrapunji Gin Wins Big At SIP Awards 2025

Out of over 1,200 spirits from 60+ countries, only a small number received this top honour. And Cherrapunji Gin was one of them! Instead of being judged by critics or experts, these awards are decided by real people. Over 300 regular consumers tasted each spirit blindly; there were no labels or names to influence them. This authenticity in the deciding factors makes Cherrapunji Gin’s win even more special.

Made in Meghalaya, every ingredient used in the gin is thoughtfully chosen from nearby regions. The makers have kept this spirit as local and fresh as possible. It boasts locally sourced botanicals like juniper berries, Khasi mandarins, smoked tea, and Kaji lime. These ingredients give Cherrapunji Gin its unique citrussy, smoky, and truly one-of-a-kind flavour.

Also Read: What Is Pathimugam, The Antioxidant-Rich Pink Drink That’s Been Healing Kerala For Centuries?

Turning Rainwater Into Something Beautiful

Even though Cherrapunji and Mawsynram are among the rainiest places on Earth, drinking water becomes scarce during winter. The founders of Cherrapunji Gin considered this challenge an opportunity to push boundaries and create something unique. They noted that rainwater is naturally distilled by nature, and it could be used to make high-quality spirits.

Cherrapunji Gin is different, not just in terms of how it’s made but also in how it’s packaged. Adding to its charm, it comes in a military-grade stainless steel bottle that weighs just 155 grams. Yes, the bottle looks unique and spectacular, but it’s also a conscious step towards reducing carbon footprint. The bottle is reusable, recyclable, and built to last. 

Winning the Double Gold at the SIP Awards is definitely a momentous occasion. However, for the team behind Cherrapunji Gin, the even more special factor is that so many people loved what they’ve created. It shows that a gin made from the rains, fruits, and stories of Northeast India can stand proudly on the world stage.

Cover Image Courtesy: Cherrapunji Craft Gin/Instagram

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Mallika Khurana: Fuelled by chai and curiosity, I live for slow mornings, endless binge-watching sprees, and the joy of doing absolutely nothing. But hand me a plate of something delicious, and I’ll write you a whole love letter about it.