Indian craft gin has exploded in the last few years. Every few months, a new bottle promises local botanicals, global quality, and a premium experience. Most fade into the background.

Hapusa Gin didn’t, no sweet citrus shortcuts, no flowery Instagram-bait botanicals. Just bold, unapologetic, in your mouth Himalayan juniper.

The first sip hits you are like, Wait! This tastes like a pine forest.

Second sip hits, is this even gin, or did I just lick a mountain?

Third sip hits, Okay! I either hate this or I'm obsessed. There's no middle ground.

But with a premium price tag and a very distinct flavour profile, the big question remains that, With a premium ₹4,000+ price tag and a flavor profile that punches you in the taste buds, is it worth the hype? Let’s break it down properly.

Hapusa Gin Decoded: When Gin Stops Apologising

Hapusa is a premium Indian craft gin, often described as a Himalayan dry gin.

The name “Hapusa” comes from Juniperus macropoda, the Himalayan juniper berry that defines the gin’s character. Unlike many modern gins that hide juniper behind citrus and florals, Hapusa does the opposite, it puts juniper front and centre.

And unlike 99% of modern gins that hide juniper behind citrus and florals, Hapusa does the opposite. It puts juniper front and center.

Hapusa is gin for gin purists. The kind of people who drink Martinis and actually want to taste the gin. If that's not you? This review just saved you ₹4,500.

Hapusa Gin Alcohol Percentage: Why 43% Matters More Than You Think

Hapusa Gin has 43% ABV.

Only 3% more than standard? Does it even matter? Yes, it absolutely matters.

At 43% alcohol:

• Botanicals taste sharper (you feel every herb)
  
  
• Juniper feels more intense (the main character's energy)
  
  
• Cocktails hold structure better (doesn't disappear in mixers)
  
  
• Neat sipping feels more serious (this is grown-up gin)

Hapusa chose the latter, every single time.

Hapusa Gin Taste Profile: The Flavor Punch That Divides People

This is where Hapusa absolutely separates the crowd.

The Nose:

• Sharp Himalayan juniper (immediate presence)
  
  
• Pine forest freshness (like walking through mountains)
  
  
• Earthy, herbal tones (grounded, not airy)
  
  
• Almost Alpine character (crisp, cold, intense)

The Palate:

• Bold juniper punch (not hiding)
  
  
• Peppery spice (heat without burn)
  
  
• Resinous, forest-like flavors (tree energy)
  
  
• Minimal sweetness (dry AF)

The Finish:

• Long duration (stays with you)
  
  
• Dry exit (no sugar coating)
  
  
• Slightly bitter (in a good way)
  
  
• Lingering herbal warmth (mountain aftertaste)

How to Actually Drink Hapusa Gin and Its Mixers

Neat (For the Brave)

• Surprisingly rewarding if you like strong botanicals.
  
  
• Pour 60ml, Room temp, Sip slowly.
  
  
• It's intense. But that's the point.

Gin & Tonic 

Use neutral tonic. (Not citrus-heavy. Not sweet.)

Add:

• Sprig of rosemary (herbal harmony)
  
  
• or light citrus peel (subtle accent)

Martini 

This is Hapusa's Throne.

Recipe:

• 60ml Hapusa
  
  
• 10ml dry vermouth
  
  
• Ice, stir, strain
  
  
• NO garnish overload

This is the drink that converts people.

Hapusa vs The Indian Craft Gin Competition

How does the rebel stack up?

vs Jaisalmer Gin:

Jaisalmer: Spicier, desert-inspired, slightly smoother

Hapusa: More aggressive juniper, alpine freshness

vs Greater Than Gin:

Greater Than: Classic, safe, beginner-friendly, reliable

Hapusa: Bold, challenging, opinionated, polarizing

vs Cherrapunji Gin:

Cherrapunji: Soft, green, subtle, inviting

Hapusa: Sharp, dry, intense, demanding

Hapusa Gin Price in India: The Premium Reality

Let's talk about what your wallet's about to experience.

Approximate Prices (750ml):

You are paying for:

• Wild Himalayan botanicals (foraged, not farmed)
  
  
• Small-batch production (limited runs)
  
  
• Strong juniper-forward identity (bold choice)
  
  
• Craft integrity (no shortcuts)

It's expensive because it's committed, not because it's marketed.

Final Verdict: Is Hapusa Gin worth the Hype?

Hapusa Gin doesn't try to be everyone's favorite, and that's exactly why it stands out.

Hapusa Gin worth it, if you want: 

• A bold Indian craft gin (no apologies)
  
  
• Real juniper character (not hidden)
  
  
• A bottle that sparks conversation (guaranteed)
  
  
• Something different from sweet, citrus gins (rebellion)
  
  
• You drink gin neat or with minimal mixers
  
  
• You're a thinking drinker

It's the gin that chose authenticity over popularity, and in a market drowning in safe choices, that's the real flex.

You'll either become obsessed or realise it's not your vibe. And honestly? That's all Hapusa wants.