As eco-conscious consumers increasingly opt for sustainably-produced tipples, the popularity of organic spirits has steadily grown in recent years. But what defines an organic spirit, and what are the benefits?
Earning Organic Certification
For a spirit to display the Soil Association’s iconic symbol, at least 95% of its agricultural ingredients must be farmed without synthetic chemicals for a minimum of two years. The remaining 5% ingredients go through a rigorous approval process. In the distillation process, organic producers make efforts like recycling water and using renewable energy to minimize environmental impact.
Popular Organic Spirits from the UK and Around the Globe
The range of organic spirits now spans multiple cultures and base ingredients far beyond Western vodka, gin and rum:
UK Organic Spirits:
- Brighton Gin – Uses organic wheat and 27 botanicals to produce its award-winning gin. Mix with premium tonic and orange peel.
- Teeling Small Batch Irish Whisky – Ages its malt and grain whiskies in rum casks for a warming flavour. Sip neat or on the rocks.
Global Organic Spirits:
- Baijiu – This traditional Chinese spirit made from sorghum receives organic certification from several Chinese agencies. Sample Guilin Sanhua Jiu’s certified organic baijiu with floral rice notes.
- Awamori – Distilled from indica rice, this coconut-infused Okinawan spirit is certified organic by the Okinawa Prefecture.
- Cachaça – Brazil’s famous fermented and distilled sugarcane spirit also comes in organic certified versions, like those from Mangaroca Andrade using vines treated with natural compost.
- Mezcal – Crafted from organically grown agave in Oaxaca, Mexico, Montelobos Espadín mezcal makes a fine organic addition to any bar.
With their lower environmental impact and distinct flavours, organic spirits deserve a closer look from eco-conscious imbibers. When shopping, why not reach for the organic option? Your tastebuds and the planet will cheers to that choice.