Saigon Baigur Dry Gin 70cl

Gin as a global phenomenon

Gin is gradually becoming a global phenomenon. Year on year, the map of global gin producers is expanding to include new, far-flung countries such as Vietnam, Taiwan, India, Ecuador, Argentina and South Africa. Saigon Baigur Dry Gin is the first premium craft gin to be distilled in Ho Chi Minh City. The idea was conceived by Jochem Lisser and Florian Draaisma in 2018.

A journey through Vietnam in search of botanicals

As the pair wanted to incorporate authentic Vietnamese botanicals into the gin, they travelled the length and breadth of the country – from the street markets in urban centres to remote mountainous regions. It took two years to finalise the blend, comprising twelve regionally typical botanicals and four classic ones.

Elaborate distillation process

A handmade Carterhead copper still was specially imported from Europe for the 24-hour maceration, distillation and steam infusion of the aromatic botanicals at the District 9 Distillery. The Saigon Baigur team proudly lists the botanicals: these include Macedonian juniper, coriander seeds, angelica root, liquorice root, fennel seeds, Buddha’s hand, lotus blossoms, Saigon cinnamon, green cardamom, black cardamom, lemongrass, lemon peel, dragon fruit, star anise, bird’s eye chilli and Phu Quoc peppercorns.

A special bottle for a special gin

To highlight the uniqueness of this handcrafted gin, Jochem and Florian also sought out a very special bottle. The design – inspired by a dragon’s egg from Vietnamese mythology – was created by the Dutch designer Pim Tiemessen. They eventually found a glassware manufacturer in China who took on the challenge of producing the bottles exclusively for Saigon Baigur Dry Gin.

Market launch and international expansion

Since its launch in 2020, the founders have been working tirelessly to make the gin available throughout Vietnam and, of course, to market it internationally.

Tasting notes

Fresh and lively with dominant citrus notes, exotic spices, floral nuances and a fruity, spicy sweetness.