It’s not news that gin is big at the moment. There are gin bars, and more and more local varieties coming to the fore. People are experimenting and trying out new gin, and while it’s still perfectly acceptable to enjoy it with tonic water, gin is being garnished, mixed, shaken and stirred. Or drunk neat, which is how I’m consuming my favourites such as the local Inverroche and Ginologist, and Malfy from Italy.

With the gin revival comes The Gin Box, a gin-delivery service that was launched last year.  Like with other subscription box services, you go online, order a box (you can choose from monthly boxes, or “occasion” boxes such as bookclub and holiday). Each box contains local craft gin along with garnishes and sometimes accessories/surprises. The gins and contents are well curated, and you’ll be able to discover new varieties, and try out wonderful ways to drink gin.

The gins come from all over South Africa, including the Karoo, Gauteng (who knew?), Phalaborwa and Stillbaai. Previous boxes have featured Westcliff Gin (inspired by the gold heritage of Johannesburg) and The Citrus Ginologist from Boksburg (yes, believe it).

Boxes start from about R750, and you can order once-off – there’s no pressure to commit to longer (though you’ll probably want to once you see what’s on offer).

Here’s what the March box (R750) looks like, with a collection from Flowstone Wild Cucumber, from the Cradle of Humankind, along with some great accompaniments.

For more info head to www.theginbox.co.za or connect with The Gin Box on Twitter: @TheGinBoxsa, Instagram @theginboxsa or Facebook TheGinBoxSA

PS: These make for great gifts!!!!! (hint hint hint to any of my friends and family, or husband, who might be reading this)