Mosaic of China The Gin Peddler (Fergus WOODWARD, Peddlers Gin)
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Sep 13, 2022 Fergus Woodward, co-founder of Peddlers Gin, shares his journey creating craft gin in China with unique botanicals like Sichuan pepper and Buddha's hand. The episode explores cultural perceptions of busyness, culinary adventures in China, and the entrepreneur community in Shanghai. Discussions also include managing a beer brand, life changes during a pandemic, and the cozy bar scene in Shanghai.
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Sourcing Unique Ingredients Journey
- Fergus Woodward and his team traveled extensively by cheap trains across China to discover quality ingredients like Sichuan pepper and Buddha's hand for their gin.
- They relied on networking and persistent local outreach often starting from casual conversations in bars to find the best farms and suppliers.
Gin's Niche in China's Spirit Market
- In China, 98% of spirits sold are Baijiu, leaving only 2% for all other spirit categories combined including gin.
- The rise of cocktail culture in tier one cities is driving a slow but growing consumer interest in gin and other spirits.
Garage Start and Naming 'Peddlers'
- Fergus started distilling in a garage in Pudong, rigorously testing recipes and hand-delivering boxes of gin on a scooter in Shanghai.
- The brand name 'Peddlers' reflects this hustle and the trading history of Shanghai, embodying the spirit of personal and commercial persistence.