Bali's Award-Winning Gin Earns Double Gold at International Spirits Competition

Bali's growing reputation as a hub for premium craft spirits has received another boost with East Indies London Dry Gin securing a Double Gold Medal at the 2026 Asia World Spirits Competition (AWSC). The accolade represents a significant milestone for Spice Islands Distilling Co., the Keramas Beach-based distillery behind the acclaimed expression.

Craftsmanship Meets Indonesian Identity

East Indies is produced in small batches using Gede, a 550-litre copper still hand-crafted by CARL of Germany, a distillery equipment manufacturer with over 140 years of heritage. The choice of equipment reflects the distillery's commitment to quality, with the traditional German-built still considered essential to producing premium spirits.

The gin's botanical composition represents a deliberate balance between classical gin tradition and Indonesian terroir. High-quality Macedonian juniper forms the backbone of the spirit, delivering the characteristic piney notes expected of a London Dry Gin. This foundation is then complemented by a curated selection of Indonesian botanicals, citrus, and spices that distinguish it from European competitors.

All character derives entirely from botanicals added during distillation, with no artificial flavourings used in production—a philosophy that underscores the distillery's focus on authenticity and provenance.

Versatility for the Modern Bar

Beyond its competition pedigree, East Indies is designed with practical versatility in mind. The gin performs equally well in a traditional gin and tonic, served with ice and a citrus garnish, as it does in a classic Martini or contemporary cocktails where its balanced botanical profile can serve as a sophisticated foundation.

This adaptability makes it particularly appealing to both home mixologists and professional bartenders, positioning it as more than a trophy winner but a genuinely functional spirit for diverse drinking occasions.

Expanding Regional Footprint

Distribution has expanded beyond Bali's hospitality sector, with East Indies now available through selected trade and hospitality partners across Asia and internationally. The geographic reach reflects growing international appetite for Indonesian craft spirits and Bali's emerging identity as a production centre for premium drinks.

For visitors and residents seeking locally-made products with credible international recognition, East Indies represents an increasingly common phenomenon in Bali's beverage landscape—local craftsmanship with global standards.

More information is available at eastindiesgin.com or via @eastindiesgin on social media.

Originally published by NOW! Bali