Many young and passionate gin lovers in Hong Kong have gone as far as to set up their own micro-distilleries; crafting their own brand of gin that’s unique, nuanced and intrinsically local. We are truly blown away by their creativity in encapsulating the essence of Hong Kong in a drink.
Gin enthusiasts take note, this one’s for you. If you’re already thinking of what your next bottle should be… Let us shed some light on these 6 up-and-coming Hong Kong gins!
1. Bauhinia Gin – Inspired by Hong Kong’s emblem
Inspired by the Bauhinia Bakeana, Hong Kong’s national flower, Bauhinia Gin is as patriotic as it gets. This artisanal small-batch gin is made unique by the flavours of the flower; lending a subtle floral nose to the distilled spirit. Crisp, refreshing and brimming with the spirit of the city that inspired it, you will derive great joy upping your nightly G&T with this gin.
Apart from juniper berries—a critical component of all gins—what makes Bauhinia gin unique is the addition of Bauhinia flowers, along with angelica, orris, lemon peel, chamomile, almond, jasmine, coriander, ginger and more.
2. Gweilo Gin – Brought to you by the same folks behind Gweilo Beer
The Gweilo team—the same folks behind Hong Kong local craft beer, Gwei-lo Beer—collaborated with The London Distillery Company some time back. They have produced a gin using Mosaic, the lead hop that plays an important role in their well-known signature Pale Ale, which imparts a combination of tropical and stone fruit aromas. Complementing that is yuzu, mango, pine and other forms of citrus. Bright with a fruity, hoppy complexity, it is best drunk with a splash of tonic.
3. NIP Gin – Created via a traditional gin-making technique
NIP Gin is a highly refined spirit that’s smooth and nuanced. It is made the traditional way using an artisan Carl copper – the same one that’s being used by other prominent gin brands.
The 21 botanicals used in the manufacturing of this craft gin feature a myriad of native ingredients, creating a product that distinctly embodies Hong Kong with every sip.
Tea leaves such as Longjing and Shoumei plays a pivotal role in this along with aged tangerine peel, goji berries, fresh ginger and osmanthus flower. The result is a floral gin that’s accented with slight citrusy and sweet undertones.
4. Perfume Trees Gin – An award-winning gin
A gin born out of a desire to encapsulate Hong Kong’s beauty and vibrancy; Perfume Trees Gin is the brainchild of Joseph and Kit Cheung, two passionate imbibers—one a seasoned mixologist and the other, a law graduate. Since its inception as Hong Kong’s first gin, Perfume Trees Gin has gone on to win several accolades! It even won the most internationally awarded gin in the Pan-China region. Key components that make up this beautiful product are white champaca flowers, sandalwood, 15-year-aged tangerine peel, Long Jing green tea and Chinese Angelica.
5. Porcelain Gin – Possibly one of the prettiest Hong Kong gins
Meticulously handcrafted using the highest quality ingredients and distilled in small batches, this “Shanghai Dry Gin” is one that perfectly marries rich Chinese craftsmanship and elegance. The gorgeous porcelain bottle it comes in is designed by Hong Kong ceramic brand Loveramics.
Ingredients used in the making of this premium Hong Kong gin include Mongolian juniper berries, and a range of Chinese spices and berries i.e. Sichuan peppercorn, cardamom, coriander seeds, almonds, hazelnuts, orange, lemon, grapefruit, as well as lavender and rose, plus six other secret ingredients.
6. Two Moons – One of the first HK gin distilleries to accept visitors
Two Moons Distillery is nestled in the heart of Hong Kong’s concrete jungle and is the first of its kind to accommodate visitors.
Two Moons made its debut in December 2019 as one of Hong Kong’s first gin distilleries. Founded by two local gin enthusiasts Dimple Yuen and Ivan Chang; they take special care and precision to make every 100-bottle batch completely by hand. Sourcing only the best botanicals from around the world and crafted in small batches, this 100% local premium gin gin is truly well deserving of its prestige.
Enjoyed this guide to Hong Kong gins? Check out Zhen Gin, Asia’s first climate-positive gin.
No Comments