In Kolkata, where culture and heritage blend seamlessly, a homegrown gin brand has emerged to captivate the taste buds of alcohol connoisseurs. Calcutta Gin, an ‘affordable gin’ introduced in 2021, has quickly become a local sensation, with its customer base growing slowly and steadily. To celebrate World Gin Day today (June 10), My Kolkata sat down with Aayush Killa, head of new business at Calcutta Gin, and Tanay Agarwal, business development head, to uncover the brand’s inspiring journey and future growth.
My Kolkata: How has the city embraced Calcutta Gin since its launch in 2021?
The brand has garnered a favourable response from both establishments and individuals. People love the fact that they can drink the gin closest to its original form, with just ice and lemon. The drink is also generating a positive response given its neutral appeal, allowing it to blend well with all flavours. For instance if you’re stirring up an orange-based drink, Calcutta Gin would only play a role in enhancing the taste.
Aayush Killa, head of new business at Calcutta Gin, and Tanay Agarwal, business development head
Did you anticipate this response? What has made it click?
Given the global gin movement in 2021 and the rise of homegrown gin brands in India, we conducted extensive internal research. During this process, we discovered that Kolkata shares a deep-rooted history with gin. This distilled spirit was introduced by Britishers during the British Raj in Kolkata. While brands like Bombay Sapphire existed, what was missing was a brand that bridged the city’s history with gin. Also, gin was an unexplored spirit for us at Tramways Group, and therefore the decision to foray into it.
Was this venture a passion project because you (Aayush) are a restaurateur or was it a business decision for you (Tanay) seeing the gap in the market for an affordable gin?
It was a mix of both. Our fathers have been part of the alcohol industry for the last 30 years, and we are also manufacturers for Diageo, besides having our own country spirit plant. So, to step into the gin market is like us carrying forward their legacy.
Young aficionados enjoy a drink. ‘We always have said you can taste heritage with our brand, and customers have gotten around this statement,’ said Aayush and Tanay
Where in Kolkata does the production take place and what goes into making it?
We have a production unit in Howrah, and in terms of producing it, there’s a mix of certain flavours and additions that goes in. The complete process takes about five to six days.
How do you ensure profitability, with the current price of Rs 690 for a 750ml bottle?
While our primary focus has always been on ensuring that people appreciate the brand, profitability is also a crucial aspect. Once consumers enjoy your product and you foster a loyal customer base, margins come in. Also, with every new product there’s a decisive point where customers choose to either switch to a new brand or remain loyal to ours. This is where the key to success lies.
Calcutta Gin is priced at Rs 690 for a 750ml bottle
What is your market share?
We currently have the largest market share out of all gins available in West Bengal. The city bars and clubs are our biggest customers as Calcutta Gin is a great mix for cocktails.
Which clubs or bars in Kolkata register the highest sales of Calcutta Gin?
Irish House and Ozora are doing really well, while the rest of them also show promising results.
What lies ahead for you as a gin company based out of Kolkata?
Going forward, we wish to take Calcutta Gin national, and global to give everyone the taste of heritage. The northeastern part of India will be our first target.
