India’s rich heritage in herbs and spices is inspiring a new wave of premium drinks. Peak Spirits, an Indian brand, is leading this change with its popular Jin Jiji dry gin. This handcrafted gin uses Darjeeling tea and wild Himalayan juniper, making it truly special and rooted in India’s botanical wealth.
From Delhi to Uttarakhand: A Unique Journey
Ansh Khanna, the founder of Peak Spirits, discovered his passion for alcoholic beverages during trips to Italy and Uttarakhand. Inspired by old vineyards in Tuscany and India’s lush forests, Ansh pursued training in wine management in the US and gained hands-on experience in Californian wineries. Later, he realized India’s potential for quality craft spirits and teamed up with Ken Fredrickson, a Master Sommelier, to start Peak Spirits in 2018.
They chose Uttarakhand for their distillery because of the availability of local botanicals. They developed around forty spirit recipes before launching their first products—a single malt whiskey named Kamet and the signature Jin Jiji gin. Starting with exports to the US, they built a brand that celebrates India’s flavors on a global stage, overcoming challenges like supply chains and customs regulations.
Jin Jiji: A Celebration of Indian Botanicals
Jin Jiji is crafted in small batches using copper pot distillation. Its recipe showcases a mix of Indian botanicals such as wild Himalayan juniper, tulsi (holy basil), chamomile, coriander, angelica root, and cashew nut. The use of Darjeeling tea gives it a unique flavor depth, combining smoothness with subtle spice and floral notes. The name “Jin Jiji” comes from the Hindi word “Jijivisha,” meaning the lust for life.
This gin holds 43% alcohol by volume and is made from 100% wheat-based neutral grain spirit sourced from West Bengal. It stands out not only for its taste but also for its commitment to quality—no industrial colors or additives are used.
International Recognition and Growth
Jin Jiji gained global acclaim when it won the Spirit of the Year award and the Gold Medal at the prestigious London Spirits Competition in 2025. It has also received top ratings at other international competitions, soon becoming one of the world’s highest-rated gins.
Peak Spirits has served over one million customers since its launch. The brand aims to “premiumize” the drinking experience in India, helping customers move towards richer, more crafted beverages. From a small team of three, Peak Spirits has grown to 25 full-time employees across India.
Looking Ahead: India’s Craft Spirits on the Rise
The story of Peak Spirits is a testament to India’s vast potential in the craft spirits industry. The focus on local ingredients, craftsmanship, and global quality standards sets a powerful example for other startups. Ansh Khanna and his team are committed to pushing the boundaries of Indian spirits, creating brands with stories that resonate both at home and worldwide.
For those looking to explore Indian-made gins with authentic flavors, Jin Jiji offers an exciting and premium choice. It beautifully captures the essence of India’s nature, heritage, and vibrant spirit.