Indlovu Gin stands out not just for its unconventional source of botanicals but also for its smooth, earthy profile. Distilled using botanicals foraged by elephants, it's as much a conversation starter as it is a tasteful spirit. The flavour notes, intriguingly wild yet familiar, surprise the palate and evoke the essence of the African wilderness.
The gin has a harmonious balance between fresh, fragrant botanicals and a distinct, grounding depth. While not for everyone, adventurous spirits will appreciate its unique narrative and the sustainability efforts behind its creation. A gin truly reminiscent of the wild.
We asked the people behind this award-winning gin, Les Ansley and his wife, Paula a few questions.
Tell us more about Indlovu Gin. How did you started?
We recently moved the family back to South Africa after spending 15 years in the UK. We felt South Africa offered opportunities both in terms of enterprise and also being able to contribute back in some way.
Shortly after we arrived Paula had an opportunity to go to Kenya on safari and it was while she was sipping a G&T while watching a herd of elephants listening to the guide explain how particular elephants are in their browsing habits and yet how little of the plant material they actually digest that she had this crazy idea, would it be possible to make elephant dung gin? So that’s what we did.
It has taken us on an incredible journey and we feel it is important to contribute back in some way. So we donate 15% of the profits from Indlovu gin to HERD (Hoedspruit Elephant Rehabilitation and Development Trust), which supports their work in setting up and running South Africa’s first elephant orphanage.
What is the meaning behind the name and logo?
‘Indlovu’ is the word for elephant in several African languages. All of our gins have a connection to these African giants. Our Indlovu Original is made from elephant-foraged botanicals, and both the Indlovu Pink and Indlovu Citrus are made from elephants’ favourite bush delicacies. The elephant logo is reminiscent of African finger art.
How would you describe the taste of each variant to someone that has never tasted it before?
The essential ingredients in our Indlovu Original gin are derived from elephant dung that is washed and dried. The extracted botanicals are then infused into the gin, which makes it uniquely African. It offers an elegant, smooth, creamy palate with grassy flavours mixed with juniper and earthy spice.
Indlovu Pink is made from Prickly Pear and offers a fruity and refreshing flavour. It is an ideal accompaniment for a decadent Negroni with champagne.
The orange and tropical marula fruits in Indlovu Citrus combine to produce a zesty-flavoured gin perfect to enjoy in a Mojito with fresh-squeezed lime juice.
What is your favourite way to enjoy Indlovu?
With good friends, around a fire, watching an African sunset.
