'FILTR' Is An Indian Coffee-Inspired Gin Cocktail From Subko x Stranger & Sons

If there have been two avenues in the realm of culinary that have seen innovation in the last decade or so, it has been that of artisanal gin and craft coffee. Keeping a close eye on the shifting perspective towards indulgence, Stranger & Sons, in collaboration with Subko Coffee, has unveiled their latest creation — the FILTR Martini. Both brands are renowned in their respective fields for constant innovation and experimentation, FILTR is a unique addition to the Indian market. Marrying the bold, botanical profile of gin with the essence of South Indian filter coffee, this limited-edition cocktail bridges two seemingly distant worlds, offering a sensory experience that is as familiar as it is refreshing.

Inspired by the all-too-familiar Kaapi rituals of Udupi Darshinis, the FILTR Martini takes a page from the bustling South Indian eateries where baristas master serve up Dabaras of filter coffee brimming with rich flavours, and aroma. With this new release, Stranger & Sons and Subko Coffee reimagines the much-loved Espresso Martini into something distinctly South Asian; as a cocktail that honours tradition but speaks the language of contemporary mixology.  

At the heart of FILTR is an inspired collaboration of craftsmanship. Specialty coffee, carefully sourced and roasted by Subko, joining hands with Stranger & Sons’ gin to produce a flavour profile that feels intentional yet effortless, all while being delightfully familiar to South Indians.

According to the brand, all it takes is a few shakes of the FILTR drink with ice to see that dreamy, frothy layer, and with a flourish of vanilla flavour to finish, the resultant drink is an indulgent treat to the senses. Through the FILTR Martini, the brands are not just collaborating on a drink, they are also presenting a complex story - of both coffee and gin culture, the nuances of artisanal distilling, and the thrill of creative collaboration.  

“We’ve always been serious about cocktails,” noted Rahul Mehra, CEO and Co-Founder of Third Eye Distillery, the parent company of Stranger & Sons in talking about this collaboration. “In a world where the classic Espresso Martini has become predictable, we’re breaking the mould by taking inspiration from the humble filter coffee - a staple of Udupi Darshinis - and elevating it to its deserved pedestal.”  

Rahul Reddy, Founder of Subko Coffee, added, “This collaboration allowed us to express craft through multiple dimensions. With Stranger & Sons, we were able to merge three worlds - specialty coffee, traditional South Indian filter coffee, and premium gin. The FILTR Martini is a celebration of provenance, encapsulating the essence of the Subcontinent in every pour.”  

The FILTR Martini builds on the legacy of Stranger & Sons' ‘in cahoots series,’ following the success of the iconic Perry Road Peru, the gin-based cocktail that was created with The Bombay Canteen. The FILTR Martini is now available in Goa and Maharashtra, and will soon launch in Bangalore and Gurgaon. 

For cocktail enthusiasts and coffee lovers alike, FILTR Martini offers a playful exploration of two beloved rituals. Whether it’s enjoyed at a boozy brunch or as an unusual nightcap, the ready-to-drink blend promises to surprise, intrigue, and delight. After all, the best ideas happen when different worlds collide.  

Follow Stranger & Sons here.
Follow SUBKO here.

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