Sat Jun 14 08:34:09 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a summary and rewritten news article based on the provided text, framed from an Indian perspective:
**Summary:**
A Meghalaya-based distillery, Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin, has become the first alcohol label from Northeast India to be exported. Their gin, named after the region, is now available in parts of the EU and plans to expand to Japan, Thailand, and the UK. The gin uses rainwater and local botanicals from the Cherrapunji area (one of the wettest places on earth) and is packaged in a reusable stainless steel bottle, promoting sustainability. The brand emphasizes its local origin and storytelling, riding the global wave of gin’s resurgence and the growing popularity of Indian craft gins.
**News Article:**
**Northeast India’s Cherrapunji Gin Makes Global Splash, Marks Milestone for Indian Craft Spirits**
**GUWAHATI, June 14, 2025** – A new chapter has been written in India’s burgeoning craft spirits industry with Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin becoming the first alcohol brand from the Northeast to break into the international market. The Meghalaya-based distillery, celebrating World Gin Day today, announced that its signature gin is now available in select European Union countries.
The gin, aptly named after the famed rain-drenched region of Cherrapunji (also known as Sohra), sources its primary ingredient – rainwater – from the area around Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, known as the wettest places on Earth. Distilled in small batches using traditional copper stills, the gin incorporates locally sourced botanicals like kaji nemu (Assamese lemon), Khasi mandarin, Sohmarit pepper, smoked black cardamom, and pine-smoked tea, offering a unique flavor profile deeply rooted in the Northeast’s terroir.
“This is a moment of pride not just for us, but for the entire Northeast region,” said Mayukh Hazarika, CEO of Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin. “We wanted to create a product that tells a story about where it comes from, and we are seeing that story resonate far beyond our expectations. The global spirits market is increasingly valuing authenticity and provenance, and we believe our gin captures the spirit of Meghalaya.”
Beyond the EU, the company plans to expand its reach to Japan, Thailand, and the United Kingdom later this year. The gin’s unique packaging also sets it apart: it comes in a durable, reusable stainless steel bottle, promoting sustainability.
The rise of Cherrapunji Gin mirrors the broader resurgence of gin worldwide and the growing popularity of Indian craft gins. Over the past five years, Indian-made gin has transitioned from a niche product to a staple in urban bars and home collections, with brands focusing on regional ingredients and local narratives.
Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin has already garnered international acclaim, winning 13 awards, including a ‘Master’ medal at the Global Spirits Masters 2023. The company credits government support, particularly from Meghalaya, as crucial in enabling their export ambitions. This venture highlights the potential of Northeast India to contribute to the global market, driven by local resources and innovative spirit.
First Piper 