An Indian gin made using rainwater from Cherrapunji has made the country proud by winning a prestigious Double Gold medal at the SIP Awards 2025 held in Irvine, California.
The gin, named Cherrapunji Gin, is created by Raincheck Earth Co., a company founded by Mayukh Hazarika. It stood out among more than 1,200 entries from over 60 countries — and was one of the few (less than 2%) to win the top-tier Double Gold.
What makes this gin special is its unique ingredients and sustainable production. It’s crafted from harvested rainwater in Cherrapunji (one of the wettest places on Earth) and includes local botanicals like Khasi mandarin, Himalayan juniper, smoked tea from Lushai hills, and Kaji lime from Assam. The result is a citrusy, smoky, and earthy flavor that consumers loved.
Even the bottle stands out — it’s made from military-grade stainless steel that’s reusable and recyclable, showing a commitment to sustainability.
The SIP Awards are the only major spirits competition in the world judged entirely by everyday consumers, with over 300 people tasting blindly.
Mayukh Hazarika said, “This award is special because it comes from real drinkers, not critics. It proves that our gin, rooted in Meghalaya’s rain and culture, can connect with people around the world.”
The gin has been getting rave reviews online, with one user writing: “Got it in Meghalaya, loved sipping it on the banks of the Dawki river under the stars.”
This win not only shines a light on India’s growing craft spirits scene but also follows a previous honor — a medal at Gin Masters London 2023.
By TOI News
