The Gin Industry (with a 2025 update)

I LOVE GIN. And apparently, I’m not the only one … 

Fetch the ice and tonic – the gin industry in the UK is indeed booming, with 49 distilleries opening in 2016 alone, and £400 million spent on buying gin bottles. The trend for small batch gin is still on the increase this year with new gin lists popping up in restaurants, pubs and bars all over the county, Winchester leading the way of course (think of the amazing Twisted Nose Gin and the mouth-watering Winchester 'Round Table' Gin for example!). 

Move forward and in 2025, the gin industry is expected to continue its growth, driven by premiumization, the rise of craft distilleries, and the resurgence of cocktail culture, with a focus on innovation and sustainability. 

Here's a more detailed look at the gin industry in 2025:

Market Growth and Trends:

• Continued Growth:

The gin market is expected to continue its growth, with the market size projected to reach $14.64 billion in 2025. 

• Premiumization:

The trend of premiumization and luxury gin offerings is expected to continue, with both craft brands and multinational companies focusing on super-premium and limited-edition releases. 

• Craft Gin Movement:

The craft distillery movement continues to expand, with more local gin brands entering the market, contributing to the region's market expansion. 

• Cocktail Culture Renaissance:

The resurgence of cocktail culture is a major driver for gin consumption, with bartenders and mixologists playing a key role in promoting gin and its diverse flavor profiles. 

• Sustainability:

Embracing sustainable practices is becoming increasingly important for gin producers, with consumers increasingly seeking eco-friendly brands. 

• Innovation:

Expect to see innovation in flavor profiles and botanicals, as well as in production and packaging, with gin brands constantly seeking ways to differentiate themselves. 

Key Players and Brands:

• Leading Brands: Diageo's Tanqueray, Bacardi's Bombay Sapphire, and Pernod Ricard's Beefeater remain top brands, with Tanqueray returning to the top spot. 
• Emerging Brands: Look for the addition of No. 3 Gin to the top 10 brands in 2025. 
• Global Expansion: Global gin brands, owned by multinationals, are expected to continue expanding into growth markets, while local players are also diversifying into gin. 

Challenges and Opportunities:

• Mature Market:

The gin market is transitioning into a mature phase, which means that growth will be more challenging to achieve. 

• Competition:

The gin market is highly competitive, with both established brands and new entrants vying for market share. 

• Alternative Spirits:

Traditional high-ABV spirits, including gin and whisky, are experiencing a modest decline, while alternative segments, particularly no- and low-alcohol options, are gaining traction. 

• Emerging Markets:

Emerging markets, such as China and India, present significant growth opportunities for gin brands. 

To understand more about Gin and how to make the perfect Gin & Tonic & Garnish mix, The Hampshire Wine School offers an education, in a fun and relaxed way, on how gin is created, and how to make THE perfect Gin & Tonic by comparing 5 styles of gin, 5 premium tonics and 8 types of botanicals. A real mouth-watering and eye-opening experience for £42.50pp.

My favourite gin of the moment is Pinkster Gin, as it makes a refreshingly different G&T, with a delicate raspberry flavour appealing both to seasoned gin drinkers and recent converts. It even won ‘Overall Best Contemporary Gin’ at The Gin Guide Awards 2017!

And to celebrate VALENTINE or MOTHERS’ DAY in style, just make this pink “Je T’Aime” cocktail to your partner or mum and let her known they're truly loved …

• 37.5ml Pinkster Gin
• 15ml Chambord blackberry liqueur
• 50ml Pineapple juice

Shake hard to create the foam layer and double strain in Martini glass.

Float raspberries on top. Enjoy!