North Carolina’s Blue Ridge Distilling has sent shockwaves through the global spirits industry with a remarkable achievement: five prestigious awards at the Global Gin Awards, including the coveted ‘Gin of the Year’ title. More significantly, Vanha Gins, their signature Indian-inspired gin, became the first Indian-inspired gin to ever receive a global award – a truly historic milestone. The victory isn’t just a testament to a well-crafted spirit; it’s a reflection of a burgeoning, innovative distilling scene in North Carolina and a bold step forward for the wider world of gin.
A Celebration of Innovation
For years, the global gin market has largely revolved around traditional juniper-forward profiles. However, recent trends are pointing towards a seismic shift – a movement towards more complex, layered, and frankly, exciting botanical blends. This trend is powerfully embodied by Vanha Gins, and the recognition it’s receiving at the Global Gin Awards is validating this evolution. Recent reports, including a comprehensive spotlight from *Difford’s Guide*, have highlighted this growing emphasis on unique flavor combinations within North Carolina’s distilleries. Blue Ridge Distilling is leading the charge, proving that exceptional spirits can be created in unexpected places and pushing the boundaries of what consumers expect from a gin.
The Players & The Pour: Crafting a Unique Botanical Experience
At the heart of this success is Blue Ridge Distilling, a relatively new operation founded by Justin Lamp, a former marketing professional who brought his strategic thinking to the art of distilling. Lamp’s vision was to create a gin that celebrated the vibrant and complex flavors of India, moving far beyond the typical juniper dominance. Vanha Gins is the result – a carefully considered blend that expertly incorporates key Indian botanicals alongside more familiar gin ingredients.
The core of the recipe relies on the captivating flavors of cardamom, a spice known for its warmth and aromatic quality; rose, adding a delicate floral complexity; and a subtle, yet significant, touch of saffron, the prized spice known for its color, aroma, and distinctive flavor. This isn’t simply adding a few spices to a standard gin base; it’s a deliberate and skillfully executed blend designed to evoke the rich sensory experience of Indian cuisine and the vibrant flavors associated with the region.
The distillation process itself is equally meticulous. Vanha Gins is distilled in a traditional pot still, a method favored for its ability to produce richer, more complex spirits. Pot stills retain more of the oils and volatile compounds from the botanicals, resulting in a spirit with a fuller flavor profile and greater depth. Beyond the distillation, the gin is further enhancing the character by being aged in charred oak barrels. This aging process, though relatively short, imparts layers of depth and character, subtly mellowing the spirit and adding notes of vanilla and toasted wood.
Historic Achievement & A Growing Recognition
The win at the Global Gin Awards marks a pivotal moment for Blue Ridge Distilling and represents a significant advancement for North Carolina’s distillery landscape. It’s a reminder that exceptional spirits are being created in unexpected places, and that the world of gin is constantly evolving. The ‘Gin of the Year’ title is particularly noteworthy, signaling that Vanha Gins is competing – and winning – against some of the most established and respected gin brands globally.
The achievement also holds particular significance for the Indian community. Historically, Indian-inspired gin has largely been overlooked by the international spirits market. Vanha Gins’ success signifies a growing appreciation for diverse flavor profiles and a willingness to explore ingredients beyond the traditional juniper. It’s a moment of recognition, demonstrating that innovation and authenticity can resonate with consumers worldwide.
Resources:
[Passionate in Marketing – Vanha Gins Wins Five Global Awards!](https://www.passionateinmarketing.com/vanaha-gins-extraordinary-debut-five-global-awards-one-historic-indian-milestone/)
