Soma Gin: Georgian Twist on an Ancient Ritual Drink

Soma Gin is a new artisanal gin that recently appeared on the Georgian market. It is a unique blend of corn and a variety of different plants that offers a new and different taste. Soma Gin takes its name and concept from the ancient ritual drink of "Soma" that is described in the Indian Gitas as a drink that blurs the boundaries between fantasy and reality, and the physical and ethereal worlds. It is believed that ancient Indians used to drink Soma to find God, light, and immortality.

The founders of the startup, Data Lapauri and Beka Talakhadze, created Soma Gin with the aim of not only producing a quality product but also establishing a Georgian gin culture. Despite the popularity of gin in Georgia, there is not a large amount of local gin production in the Georgian market. The founders want to change this by offering a local alternative to expensive imported gin that competes in terms of quality and taste.

Soma Gin is made on the basis of corn, which is grown on Georgian soil. The choice of corn is not accidental, as the founders want the product to be entirely local. Corn also naturally sweetens the taste palette, making it more pleasant. The gin is a result of two years of hard work, experimentation, and research. Data Lafauri, who grew up in a family of winemakers, has been interested in the production of drinks from an early age, and he drew on his experience and knowledge of distilling to create Soma Gin.

The production process is enjoyable, and the founders describe it as being like cooking and fine art. Gin is a drink that is open to experimentation, and there is no strict protocol for what real gin should be. This allows for more creativity and experimentation, as different plants can be mixed together to create unique flavors.

The branding and packaging of Soma Gin are simple and beautiful, with a minimalist label that is easy to understand. The packaging does not create a preconceived mood, allowing the taster to concentrate on the tasting and discover their own taste. The founders believe that minimalism suits gin, as it is a drink that is all about taste and experience.

Soma Gin already has plans for the future. The founders plan to expand the assortment with wine-based gin, which they believe is a very interesting product that will definitely have its customers. Several of its releases have already been tested and have received positive feedback, so the producers are thinking about establishing wine gin as a separate brand. In addition, the startup is planning to expand the team and open a small gin bar where interesting evenings, workshops, and meetings will be held.