Stranger and Sons Gin

Why is Stranger and Sons considered India is best craft gin?

Stranger and Sons earned its reputation as India is finest craft gin through a combination of genuine innovation and exceptional quality. The botanical bill — gondhoraj lime from Bengal, black pepper, raw mango powder and other Indian ingredients alongside classic gin botanicals — creates a character that is unmistakably Indian without abandoning the gin framework. Within two years of its 2018 launch it was being listed at some of the world is best bars. The awards, the distribution in 30 countries and the critical acclaim all reflect a gin that genuinely delivers something the world had not tasted before.

What is gondhoraj lime and why is it in Stranger and Sons?

Gondhoraj lime is a highly aromatic variety of lime native to West Bengal in India. It has an intensely floral, almost jasmine-like fragrance that is significantly more complex than the standard lime used in most gins. It is deeply embedded in Bengali cuisine and has been celebrated in the subcontinent for centuries. Vidur Gupta and the Stranger and Sons team selected gondhoraj as a key botanical specifically because it represents an Indian citrus ingredient with no equivalent in European gin making — it creates a genuinely original character that cannot be replicated with imported botanicals.

Stranger and Sons vs Hapusa — which Indian gin to buy first?

If you can only buy one Indian craft gin, start with Stranger and Sons at Rs 2200 in Delhi. It is the more internationally recognised gin, has a slightly more complex character and the gondhoraj lime and black pepper botanicals create an immediately distinctive experience. Hapusa at Rs 2400 is more unusual with its Himalayan juniper and turmeric character — brilliant but more of an acquired taste. Try Stranger and Sons first and then Hapusa when you are ready to explore further. Both belong in any serious gin collection.

Is Stranger and Sons available internationally?

Yes, Stranger and Sons is exported to over 30 countries and is one of India is most successful spirit exports. It is stocked at premium cocktail bars and specialist gin retailers in London, New York, Singapore, Tokyo and across Europe. Internationally it typically retails at the equivalent of Rs 4000 to Rs 5000 making the domestic India price of Rs 2200 in Delhi exceptional value. It has become a standard reference point in global gin discussions about Asian craft spirits.

What food pairs well with Stranger and Sons gin?

Stranger and Sons pairs brilliantly with Indian food — the gondhoraj lime and black pepper botanicals create natural affinity with subcontinental flavours. A gin and tonic with Stranger and Sons alongside a plate of chaat or paneer tikka is one of the most genuinely Indian drinking experiences possible. The pepper notes complement kebab preparations. For a more global pairing, the spice and citrus character works with ceviche, Thai food and any dish where lime and pepper feature prominently.