What made you decide to launch your gin brands, and what inspirated them? The inspiration behind Mara Gin is the Maasai Mara, which is considered the "beating heart of traditional Kenyan culture". Its authenticity is rooted in collaboration with the Maasai community, as the botanicals used in the gin are hand foraged by Maasai artisans from the Northern Mara region. Furthermore, each bottle is adorned with a hand-beaded cap crafted by Maasai women, weaving their unique cultural artistry directly into the packaging. Ultimately, this super-premium gin is designed for the "KO.nnoisseur, with a taste for discovery", allowing them to sample a taste of authentic Maasai culture. The core creative idea is to reignite tradition with a modern twist, appealing to curious explorers who value and appreciate quality, craft, and original experiences.
What is the meaning and story behind your brand name? African Originals is more than just a name, it is a declaration of purpose, deeply embedded in the creative spirit of the African continent. While "African" proudly defines our identity and foundational mission to "celebrate African identity through craft beverages and experiences", "Originals" is our commitment to go against the grain. This signifies our role as originators, championing the pioneering spirit of the true "movers, shakers, and risk takers". This dedication to originality is at the core of everything we do, from our crafted beverages and experiences to the fearless, creative individuals we collaborate with. Can you tell us more about your distillery and your still? We work with an Arnold Holstein hybrid still, designed specifically to enhance the quality of our spirits. Its versatility allows us to infuse botanicals at different stages of the process, creating a gin that’s flavourful, balanced, and robust. This still gives us the freedom to experiment while maintaining exceptional quality in every batch.
Can you tell us more about your distillation process and botanicals? Our approach varies depending on the gin. Some, like our 58 Classic Gin, follow a straightforward distillation. Others involve more complex techniques such as maceration, which is done pre or post distillation. We source a wide variety of botanicals, including African juniper, common juniper, and African thistle, to create distinctive flavour profiles. For Mara Gin, we macerate a carefully selected mix of locally sourced botanicals before distillation, producing a rich, layered gin where every sip reveals something new. What can visitors experience if they visit the distillery for a tour/tasting? You’ll walk past jars of vibrant botanicals, breathe in their aromas, and feel their textures between your fingertips. You’ll watch our still at work, the copper gleaming as vapours rise and condense into crystal-clear gin. And of course, you’ll taste the results — guided through the flavours so you can discover every nuance. It’s a front-row seat to the artistry behind your glass
What are your favourite ways to drink your gins?
I enjoy my gin best in a cocktail. It’s the perfect way to explore its complexity and see how it interacts with other flavours. Desert Island Gins: Which 3 gins would you take with you and why?
What's next for you and your gin/distillery – any exciting plans? We’re always experimenting with new botanicals and refining our craft. Expect to see more limited editions and seasonal releases that highlight the incredible diversity of African ingredients. You Might Also Like...
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