Punjab's OreGin, crafted with kinnows brewed in Goa, will soon be available in state
PTC Web Desk: Punjab Agro, an agri-processing entity in the state, is all set to introduce OreGin, a citrus-infused gin, to Punjab's market after receiving clearance from Goa. This unique gin, formulated using kinnows sourced from Punjab and crafted in Goa, is now ready for sale in its native state, as per a report published in 'Indian Express'
It is learnt that the 750 ml OreGin bottle will be available for Rs 1,850, marking its debut in Punjab after earning accolades at the ProWine Spirits Challenge in Mumbai, where it secured the second place in the gin taste category among prominent Asian companies.
Created in the research labs of Punjab, OreGin is a testament to innovation and collaboration. Brewed at Goa's esteemed Rhea distillery, renowned in international markets, it undergoes distillation in copper-based vessels. The concoction, envisioned by a French sommelier, underwent meticulous taste tests and evaluations before its launch in Goa earlier this year.
Punjab Agro's initiative has provided an avenue for kinnow farmers, who previously struggled to sell lower-grade fruits. By utilizing C and D grade kinnows that were often discarded as farm waste, the entity plans to procure approximately 8,000 tonne of kinnows for gin production.
Beyond the gin venture, Punjab Agro intends to explore further avenues with kinnows. Initiatives include the extraction of orange oil for cosmetics and candles and the preparation of pectin, derived from kinnow peels, used as a thickening agent in cooking, baking, and pharmaceuticals.
This pioneering move by Punjab Agro began around three-four years ago when kinnow farmers faced challenges due to a surplus of lower-grade fruits. Approximately 3,500 kinnow growers from Malwa region supply these fruits to Punjab Agro during the peak season in December. The juice concentrate is then sent to Rhea distillery for processing and packaging.
Each bottle of OreGin will feature a QR code, allowing consumers to trace the origin of the kinnows back to the specific farm through geotagging, emphasising transparency and quality assurance. With its innovative approach, Punjab Agro aims to revolutionise the utilisation of kinnows while creating new opportunities for farmers and consumers alike.
- With inputs from agencies
