Sur Gin: The Patagonian Spirit Named Best Gin of Argentina

Sur Gin has been named the Best Gin of Argentina at the The Gin Guide Awards UK, securing three medals among 1,400 entries from 35 countries. Founded by Franco D’Angelo and Ezequiel Pizzorno, the brand utilizes Patagonian wild juniper to challenge the historical dominance of imported premium spirits in the South American market.

Why is regional identity driving the premium spirits market?

Consumer demand is shifting toward “terroir,” where the specific geography of production defines the flavor profile. Sur Gin anchors its identity in the Patagonia region, using wild juniper and over 15 botanicals to create a distinct aromatic complexity. According to founders Franco D’Angelo and Ezequiel Pizzorno in an interview with LA NACION, the goal was to break the paradigm that high-quality spirits must be imported.

This move toward hyper-regionality allows local brands to compete on a global stage by offering flavors that cannot be replicated elsewhere. By placing an Argentinian shield on the label and explicitly stating “Inspired by Patagonia,” Sur Gin leverages national pride as a market differentiator. This trend suggests a future where “country of origin” is replaced by “specific ecosystem of origin.”

Did you know? Sur Gin’s recipe took nearly two years to develop. The founders began the project a decade ago, long before the current gin boom hit Argentina.

How does “premiumization” change consumer behavior in Argentina?

The Argentinian market is transitioning from standard-grade distillates to high-end, artisanal options. D’Angelo and Pizzorno observed this shift ten years ago when the local craft movement was centered almost exclusively on beer. They bet on gin as the next category to explode, a prediction validated by the current existence of over 400 local brands.

Premiumization is no longer just about price, but about the transparency of the process. The founders describe their journey as “completely self-taught,” focusing on the quality of raw materials. This shift pushes the entire industry toward higher standards, as consumers now seek “drinkability” combined with aromatic complexity rather than simple alcohol content.

For more on the evolution of spirits, see our guide on the rise of artisanal distilling in South America.

What role do international awards play in global export growth?

Third-party validation from prestigious bodies like The Gin Guide Awards UK serves as a catalyst for international trade. Sur Gin currently exports to Spain and Italy. The UK competition uses blind tastings by expert panels to eliminate brand bias, providing a verified stamp of quality that resonates with foreign distributors.

Sur Gin – El primer gin de alta gama de Argentina

The brand’s recent success shows a diversification of the premium palate. While the “Sur Clásico” previously held the honors, the brand recently earned bronze medals for “Naranja de Barrio” (Neighborhood Orange) and “Frutos Silvestres” (Wild Berries). The latter utilizes Patagonian blackberries, raspberries, and blueberries, signaling a trend toward botanical infusions that reflect local flora.

Pro Tip: To experience the complexity of a Patagonian gin, pair it with a neutral tonic—low sugar and high carbonation—and garnish with a slice of pink grapefruit and a sprig of fresh rosemary.

Comparison: The Shift in Argentinian Distilling

Feature	Traditional Local Spirits	Modern Premium (e.g., Sur Gin)
Market Target	Standard/Mass Market	High-End/Connoisseur
Ingredient Source	Generic/Industrial	Regional/Wild-harvested
Brand Identity	Mimicking Imports	Explicit National Identity

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Sur Gin different from other brands? According to its creators, the use of wild Patagonian juniper and a focus on “drinkability” and aromatic complexity set it apart.
Which awards did Sur Gin win? It was named the Best Gin of Argentina at The Gin Guide Awards UK, taking home three medals across its Clásico, Naranja de Barrio, and Frutos Silvestres lines.
Where is Sur Gin available? Beyond Argentina, the brand currently exports to Italy and Spain.
What is the best way to drink a premium gin? The founders recommend a classic Gin Tonic with neutral tonic or a Negroni for colder weather.

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