21/12/2023
FIRST ZAMBIAN CELEBRITY-OWNED GIN HITS THE MARKET ENTITLED "1964 CRAFT GIN"
Zambian-Greek DJ & Producer El Mukuka (born Eleftherios Bupe Mukuka) launches his own craft gin entitled “1964 Gin”, becoming the first Zambian celebrity to launch his own gin brand.1964 stands as a landmark of Zambian pride; the unbreakable spirit of unity and a toast to freedom.
The gin was launched in Lusaka at Onoma Restaurant in Rhodes Park on Wednesday 20th December 2023 for an invite-only audience of predominantly hospitality industry stakeholders, journalists, Zambian celebrities and socialites.
El Mukuka states that his 1964 Gin is a “symbol of Zambian excellence.” In his speech he invited Zambians to embrace this new locally owned gin brand and encouraged fellow Zambians to take ownership of their market (across all domains) in an effort to convert Zambian potential into Zambian power.
1964 gin is unapologetic and authentic in its design, crafted with a blend of juniper berries, baobab fruit and oranges. The brand is infused with personality; its rich and intense character reflects the courage it takes to be bold and pursue freedom.
1964 aims at delivering a Zambian-owned premium party gin to the Zambian party scene—a gin that is both youthful in its character yet mature in what it symbolizes. Mukuka further highlighted that there is a lack of locally owned premium alcohol brands in the country. He went on to describe a Zambia where every major establishment would stock a handful of locally owned Zambian alcoholic beverages.
El Mukuka says “the vast world of gin-making is one of the most beautiful and artistic sectors within the alcohol producing industry. Craft gin is loved by millions around the world for its detail-oriented and handcrafted approach to distilling and bottling. I personally would rather drink a gin that I know was made with passion and artistry over any commercially produced gin. It is a great honor and privilege to be able to name our gin “1964” - one that comes with great responsibility. Our detail-oriented mindset coupled with our love and passion for Zambia is what drives us to deliver a stellar product and strive for continued growth. Cheers to 1964, the spirit of freedom!”
