India, March 24 -- Few Indian spirits embody the word "craft" quite like Cherrapunji Gin, whose identity is rooted in rainwater, regional botanicals, and the radiant landscape of Meghalaya. We flew to Shillong to experience its newest expression, Mountain Berry & Cherry Blossom, which brings Sohiong berries and cherry blossoms together in a naturally pink spirit inspired by Meghalaya's brief but striking autumn season. Here's how it went.

The mention of the North East typically elicits a smorgasbord of reactions. A must-visit, some say. Still unexplored, others note. A wishlist for this part of the country might include everything from bhoot jolokia to bamboo artefacts. Mine, however, has long featured a particular spirit that has come t...