Gin in Georgia: Growing Imports and a New Wave of Local Production

Gin is a distilled spirit primarily flavored with juniper berries. Its origins trace back to the Netherlands, but it became most famous in the United Kingdom, where it evolved into one of the most popular alcoholic beverages over the centuries. Today, gin is widely consumed globally, particularly in cocktail culture, where it serves as an essential ingredient.

In Georgia, gin gained popularity relatively late, but its imports have grown significantly over the past decade. According to data from the National Statistics Office of Georgia, the country imported just $362,000 worth of gin in 2015, while by 2024, this figure had risen to $1.9 million. This nearly fivefold increase indicates a shift in Georgian consumer preferences and demand for alcoholic beverages. However, gin still lags far behind more established imported spirits like whiskey, which sees annual imports ranging between $10 million and $20 million.

In recent years, Georgia’s bar and cocktail scene has expanded rapidly. Classic cocktails like gin and tonic, Negroni, and martini have become increasingly popular, a trend further fueled by tourism. International visitors seeking a familiar European drinking culture often prefer gin-based drinks. Import data reflects this shift, particularly from 2021 onward, when gin imports nearly doubled.

Globally, gin’s popularity has surged over the past decade. By 2022, global gin sales had exceeded $16 billion, with projections indicating continued growth through 2030. The UK, Spain, and the Netherlands lead in both production and exports, but consumption has also risen in the US and Asia. The rise of premium and artisanal gin brands has set new standards, increasing both product quality and variety.

Alongside rising imports, local gin production in Georgia has also begun to develop. In recent years, several Georgian companies have started producing gin, marking a new phase for the industry. Local producers are using juniper berries and other natural ingredients to create uniquely Georgian gin, catering to both domestic and international markets. This trend reduces dependency on imports while opening new opportunities for exporting Georgian-made spirits.

Although gin imports have grown significantly, they still remain well behind whiskey and other popular imported spirits. However, the expansion of cocktail culture, increasing tourism, and the emergence of local production suggest that the market is poised for further growth. In the coming years, both the import and domestic production of gin in Georgia could increase further, positioning the country as a new player in the gin industry.