The News
Waterloo Gin Company announced expanded distribution into seven new states—California, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Pennsylvania (on-premise), and Tennessee—bringing its total market presence to 25 by May 2026. The brand, inspired by Texas Hill Country botanicals and owned by John Paul DeJoria, received a 94-point “Superb” rating from Wine Enthusiast in 2026.
The Takeaway
- Market Expansion: Waterloo Gin is now in seven new states including California, Hawaii, and Tennessee, expanding to 25 markets by May 2026. This move shows the brand’s strategic push for national reach with help from wholesale distributors who understand local tastes.
- Brand Credibility Boost: The 94-point “Superb” rating from Wine Enthusiast gives Waterloo Gin a strong third-party endorsement, helping it stand out in a crowded gin market. This recognition supports its claim as a quality, citrus-forward spirit that’s both approachable and distinctive.
- Regional Identity Matters: Despite national expansion, Waterloo Gin is keeping its roots in Texas Hill Country, using local botanicals to maintain authenticity. That balance between growth and heritage could resonate with consumers looking for craft spirits with a story.
Original Press Release
AUSTIN, TEXAS (APRIL 1, 2026) — Waterloo Gin Company, the first gin brand distilled in Texas and inspired by the botanicals of the Texas Hill Country, today announced expanded distribution into seven additional states: California, Hawaii, Maine, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Pennsylvania (on-premise), and Tennessee. With this expansion, Waterloo Gin has significantly broadened its national footprint and will be available in 25 markets nationwide by the end of May 2026. This strategic scale-up further aligns the rapidly growing brand with growth-focused wholesale distributors to reach a wider audience.
Under the ownership of John Paul DeJoria, co-founder of Paul Mitchell and Patrón Spirits (later sold to Bacardi), Waterloo Gin continues to grow its national presence while maintaining its commitment to quality and regional identity. DeJoria’s experience in building globally recognized brands brings both strategic vision and a dedication to authenticity, enabling Waterloo Gin to expand its reach without compromising its craft and heritage.
The expansion follows a wave of critical acclaim for the brand that is defining the American gin category with its distinctive, citrus-forward profile. In 2026, Wine Enthusiast awarded Waterloo Gin No. 9 Gin 94 points, a “Superb” rating, and a “Best Buy” designation. Kara Newman, spirits editor for Wine Enthusiast, reviewed the flagship gin, saying, “Mix martinis with this citrusy, savory gin. Whiffs of dried oregano and lime peel lead into warming flavors of olive leaf and bay leaf; a hint of toasted almond emerges on the exhale. Botanicals include lavender, grapefruit, and pecan.” The magazine also gave high marks to the Waterloo Barrel Aged Gin, scoring it 92 points, and Prickly Pear & Rose Gin, rated 88 points and a “Best Buy” designation.
“Excellent reviews and top ratings for each of our gins have led to strong demand from both consumers purchasing in retail and on-premise partners across the country,” says Waterloo Gin CEO Justin Meigs. “Since the relaunch of the brand in 2025, we’ve focused on building a distinctive American-style gin rooted in Texas botanicals and premium quality. Expanding into seven new states is a significant milestone in our national growth strategy.”
The continued strength of cocktail culture is fueling demand for premium gin. According to Business Research Insights, the global premium gin market is set to rise from $5.61 billion in 2026, on track to hit $11.45 billion (USD) by 2035, growing at a CAGR of 8.1% between 2026 and 2035. This projected growth is driven in part by consumers trading up to super-premium and craft expressions for their mixed drinks and craft cocktails.
To support its growth, Waterloo Gin has secured partnerships with leading distributors, including Reyes Beverage Group, RNDC, Johnson Brothers, and the Army & Air Force Exchange Service (available in their top 50 U.S. military bases). These partnerships significantly expand Waterloo Gin’s retail and on-premise footprint nationwide. As its national footprint continues to grow, Waterloo Gin is also expanding internationally, making its products available to UK consumers through its online store and select retail partners, including Amazon, one of the country’s leading online retailers with a dedicated spirits division.
The additional availability comes just in time for National Gin & Tonic Day, celebrated on April 9, 2026. With its lavender, grapefruit, and pecan botanicals, Waterloo Gin is a perfect choice for a variety of classic and inventive gin & tonic recipes. Try crafting this drink recipe at home using Waterloo Gin No. 9:
Rosemary Grapefruit Gin & Tonic
Ingredients:
2 oz Waterloo Gin No. 9
1 oz fresh grapefruit juice
1/2 oz rosemary simple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Tonic water
Grapefruit slice, for garnish
Rosemary sprig, for garnish
Directions: To start, make the rosemary simple syrup by adding 1/2 cup of granulated sugar, 1/2 cup of water, and two fresh rosemary sprigs to a small saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Remove from heat and let steep for 10 minutes. Strain and cool to room temperature. Then, fill a highball glass with crushed ice. Add the gin, grapefruit juice, and rosemary simple syrup. Gently stir to combine. Top with tonic water and Angostura bitters. Garnish with a grapefruit slice and rosemary sprig. Enjoy!
Pricing and Availability
Waterloo Gin’s No. 9 Gin, Barrel-Aged Gin, and Prickly Pear & Rose retail for a suggested price of $34.99 to $44.99. The brand is currently available in: Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Kentucky, Maine, Michigan, Montana, New Hampshire, Nevada, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania (on-premise), Texas, Utah, and Washington. By the end of April 2026, Waterloo Gin will have further expanded its distribution into New Mexico and Tennessee. The brand is also on track for a Q3 rollout in the District of Columbia, Indiana, Maryland, Rhode Island, and South Carolina.
Waterloo gins are available for purchase from the company’s website with nationwide shipping. Locate retail partners or purchase directly at WaterlooGin.com.
Source: BevNET
