Kyro (Kiro) is a very young brand of gin produced by the Finnish company of the same name. The industry’s northernmost facility is located in Isokyrö, on the site of a former cheese factory. The drink is made from rye alcohol with the addition of unusual ingredients. So far, there are only two types of products in the line, but the company plans to expand the range and increase production volumes in the near future.
Historical information
The idea to start producing their own alcohol was born by the owners of the company in the sauna. After the bath, the friends relaxed over a bottle of Buffalo Trace rye whiskey. They came up with the idea to try to create their own drink based on rye grown in Finland. Young businessmen rented premises at the plant where Oltermanni cheese was previously produced and ordered equipment. After much deliberation, they abandoned the idea of producing Finnish whiskey, as they would have to wait at least three years for the products to mature.
In this situation, gin was the best solution – it could be immediately put on sale and partly offset the costs. Fortunately, the purchased equipment was suitable for these purposes, and in 2014 the first bottle of Kyro gin rolled off the lines of the factory. The products were successful not only at home, but also far beyond its borders. Jin was highly appreciated by experts at international competitions.
90% of all ingredients are grown in Finland, which is famous for its agriculture. The exception is juniper berries. It is difficult to find the required amount in the northern country, so the company buys this raw material abroad. Part of the plant components – cranberries, sea buckthorn, birch leaves – are collected by the employees of the enterprise in the forest near the plant.
Gin is made almost by hand and bottled in limited quantities, no more than 12 liters per month. In terms of production, the company is still far from the recognized British brands. The company has already begun construction of a plant next to the old plant. After the commissioning of new workshops, it is planned to increase output by three times.
Awards:
- International Wine & Spirit Competition 2015 – the world’s best gin for cocktails with tonic;
- San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2017, 2018 – gold medal
Interesting Facts
- Kyro was the first brand of gin released in Finland. After a successful start of sales, many entrepreneurs picked up the idea and now five companies have already been registered in the country that produce strong drinks based on juniper.
- Having achieved success, the owners of the company returned to the idea of producing whiskey from rye malt and in 2017 released the Juuri brand with a three-year exposure. The company positions the drink as ideal for craft cocktails.
Types of Gin Kiro
Kyro Napue, 46,3%
The composition of the gin includes not quite ordinary ingredients – sea buckthorn, cranberries and birch leaves. The aroma combines meadowsweet and citrus scents. The taste of grain, with the addition of coniferous and herbal shades. The manufacturer recommends drinking the drink with ice, tonic water, a sprig of rosemary and a small amount of fresh cranberries.
Kyro Koskue, 42,6%
An unusual gin created for whiskey lovers, aged in small American oak barrels for six months. During maturation, the drink acquires a golden color and aromas of vanilla and orange. On the palate, notes of pine needles, honey, citrus fruits and pepper are felt, woody tones are added at the finish. Perfect serving – with ice, apple juice and vanilla pod.
