Hermit Gin gains new owners

Amsterdam-based Hermit Dutch Coastal Gin has been purchased by two entrepreneurs who plan to turn it into a global brand.

Dutch entrepreneurs and brothers Noah Duijst and Siward de Groot, who have extensive experience in the wine and spirits industry, are behind the acquisition. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The duo is determined to ‘preserve the essence of Hermit Gin while introducing modern innovations to attract a new generation of gin enthusiasts’.

Duijst said: “With this acquisition, we aim to transform Hermit Gin into a global brand rather than just a local Dutch gin.

“Its exceptional flavour and the unique crafting process provide a solid foundation for expanding into new markets. In our first year, we have expanded our distribution to 12 countries worldwide, with more to come.”

The 43% ABV gin is purified with Dutch sea water and crafted with 10 natural botanicals. It is described as being ‘silky smooth’ and full of ‘surprising citrus aromas’.

Some of the botanicals used in the process include orange peel, jacmel orange peel (from a sour orange that only grows in the Caribbean) and angelica root.

Duist and de Groot believe that the brand’s ‘traditional craftsmanship, combined with an innovative approach and new collaborations, will open doors to international distribution’.

Currently, the gin is available in 12 countries – including the Netherlands, Germany, Italy and Portugal – and has an RRP of €39.95 (US$43).

The brothers are currently working on expanding to Spain, France and San Francisco, in the US.

In June, in the first tasting round of The Spirits Business’ blind-tasting competition, The Gin Masters 2023, Hermit Dutch Coastal Gin was awarded a Gold medal in the super-premium category.