Gin Dreams, Bitter Truths: TGCC's Spirited Take On Gin Day And Bitters Mastery In June 2025

The month of June 2025 was nothing short of spectacular at The Good Craft Co. (TGCC) in Bengaluru. Known for being a dynamic hub for spirit enthusiasts, mixologists, and industry leaders, TGCC continued to build on its reputation with a well-curated calendar of events. This month, the spotlight was firmly on gin and botanical creativity, with two standout sessions that elevated the art of cocktail-making: the International Gin Day Workshop with Nao Spirits on 14 June, and an exclusive Bitters & Infusions Masterclass led by the esteemed Neil Alexander on 21 June.

Let’s take a look back at the experiences that stirred the spirits of everyone who walked into TGCC this month.

A Botanical Bash: TGCC x Nao Spirits International Gin Day Workshop

On 14 June, TGCC transformed into a fragrant playground for juniper-forward innovation as it played host to a special International Gin Day Workshop in collaboration with Nao Spirits, the makers of India’s first craft gins, Greater Than and Hapusa. 

Nao Spirits, who have championed the gin renaissance in India, brought with them an experience that was equal parts educational and indulgent. A line-up of signature cocktails, immersive mixology demos, and guided tastings set the tone for an unforgettable day. The space at TGCC was beautifully decorated with citrus displays, copper bar tools, and botanicals that gave attendees a real feel of what modern Indian gin culture looks and tastes like.

From classic G\&Ts to flavour-packed concoctions like a turmeric-infused gin cocktail and a grapefruit-forward spritz, the drinks showcased the versatility of Indian craft gins. The bartenders and brand experts from Nao Spirits shared stories behind their botanical choices, offering guests a deeper understanding of how native ingredients like gondhoraj lime and Himalayan juniper are redefining the spirit.

The most engaging part of the day? That was definitely the serving of pre-batched cocktails that highlighted the notes of a variety of gins, and also the flavours of Indian ingredients the team at TGCC has been developing for months. As captured in the vibrant visuals on TGCC’s social media, the event wasn’t just about gin—it was about community. From young professionals to seasoned bartenders, everyone left with a deeper appreciation for how far Indian gins have come.

Also Read: Spirited Away: The TGCC Experience You Should Not Miss

Bittersweet Symphony: Masterclass By Neil Alexander

While gin took centre stage mid-month, it was the quieter yet equally intense world of bitters and infusions that wrapped up TGCC’s June programming with flair. On 21 June, renowned mixologist Neil Alexander led a dedicated workshop that gave attendees a deep dive into one of the most essential yet often overlooked elements of cocktail craft.

Neil, known for his methodical approach and encyclopaedic knowledge of flavour, curated a session that went beyond the basics. The workshop began with a primer on the history and role of bitters in mixology, tracing its roots from medicinal tinctures to their present-day role as cocktail powerhouses.

Participants were given tasting kits that included house-made bitters with unusual infusions like cacao-nib, curry leaf, lavender, and black pepper. Each sample was paired with a specific spirit to help guests explore how bitters influence aroma, texture, and overall drink structure.

More than just a talk, this was a hands-on experience. Attendees got to try their hand at building their own bitters blends using an array of alcohol bases, botanicals, and even dried roots. Neil encouraged experimentation, reminding everyone that cocktail-making is as much about instinct and storytelling as it is about precision.

The social media post from the event captured the focused energy in the room. From scribbled tasting notes to aha-moments when a lavender bitter transformed a standard gin into something sublime, the workshop was a rare opportunity to learn from one of the best.

Reflections on the Month: Creativity, Community, and Craft

What set June 2025 apart at TGCC wasn’t just the impressive lineup of events but the thoughtful curation that balanced education with celebration. Whether it was exploring how indigenous botanicals elevate gin or understanding the nuanced power of a few drops of bitters, every event was about deepening connections—to flavour, to heritage, and to one another.

TGCC has positioned itself as more than just a venue—it’s a movement that nurtures India’s evolving drinking culture. 

If you missed the June lineup, don’t worry. With a calendar that continues to surprise and inspire, TGCC promises many more spirited experiences in the months to come. And if June was any indication, the bar—both literally and figuratively—is only getting higher.