Asia Gin Collective (AGC) unveils Malaysia's first gin, marking the start of an exciting journey in craft spirits.
In September, Asia Gin Collective (AGC), a movement dedicated to exploring and celebrating the finest gins across the region, introduced Gin Malaya at the Locker & Loft. Made in collaboration with Crossbill Distilling from Barras in Glasgow, Scotland, the gin blends Scottish techniques with Malaysia’s rich variety of ingredients and terroir.
Gin Malaya is just the beginning of many such collaborations under AGC’s mission to "partner with world-class mixologists and distilleries, infusing their craftsmanship with the unique tapestry of Asian botanicals". AGC aims to bring the flavours of Asia to the world, using locally sourced ingredients that highlight the diverse ecosystems across the continent.
Craftsmanship Meets Local Terroir
Crossbill Distilling is known for its focus on simplicity and traceability. Using only two botanicals – rosehip and fresh juniper berries harvested from a 100-year-old juniper bush protected by the Scottish government – the distillery’s gin is a pure expression of quality and nature. This small-batch spirit stands out for its clean, bright flavours, showcasing the beauty of a minimalist approach.
When AGC founders Paul Dass and Deepak Gill first tasted Crossbill Gin, they were struck by its vibrant pine forest aromas and crisp palate, unlike other gins with a lengthy list of botanicals often needing a tonic to balance them out. Crossbill Gin, by contrast, shines on its own – perfectly suited for sipping neat or over ice.
Collaboration and Craft
Paul and Deepak, both avid spirits enthusiasts, teamed up with Eu Jin from That’s The Spirit, a distribution platform delivering quality drinks across Peninsular Malaysia. Together, they formed AGC with the belief that high-quality spirits wouldn’t leave one with a painful hangover. Their philosophy revolves around partnering with reputable distilleries to create small-batch liquors made from traceable, top-tier ingredients, all while maintaining an accessible price point.
A Unique Taste of Malaysia
Gin Malaya is AGC's first major release, and the lineup includes Gin Malaya Original and Gin Malaya Kantan. Gin Malaya Original, made with juniper berries and distilled with pandan, Bentong ginger, and lemongrass from a farm in Segamat, is best enjoyed on the rocks. Gin Malaya Kantan, which features juniper berries and Bunga Kantan (torch ginger flower), offers smooth, floral notes unique to this tropical ingredient, perfect on its own or with a splash of soda.
"Asia has so much to offer the world, especially in terms of botanicals," Paul explains. "The region has incredible potential, and now is the time to showcase the quality spirits we can produce. AGC is excited to work with both regional and international distilleries, spotlighting Asian botanicals and making our mark as the ‘Gin House of Asia.’”
A World of Collaboration
Gin Malaya is just the first chapter in AGC’s larger vision. The collective plans exciting collaborations with Rocklands Distillery (Sri Lanka), along with distilleries from India, Vietnam, and Thailand. These projects will begin rolling out in 2025, introducing new gin expressions on a regular basis.
After its debut at the Kita Food Festival on 7 September, Gin Malaya is now available on That’s The Spirit and select bars across the Klang Valley.
For more information about Asia Gin Collective, visit their website.
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