Texas may not be the first place you think of when it comes to gin, but Waterloo Gin, the first gin brand ever distilled in the Lone Star State, is changing that perception, one cocktail at a time. Its newest release, Prickly Pear & Rose Gin, launched nationwide on September 24th, just in time for Negroni Week, and it’s already turning heads from Austin to the East Village.
Born from the wild landscapes of the Texas Hill Country, this striking, small-batch rose-hued gin captures the very essence of the Hill Country, blending hibiscus, rose, and prickly pear with Waterloo’s hallmark nine-botanical recipe and pure limestone-filtered water. The result? A vibrant, floral-forward gin that’s equal parts sophistication and spirit.
“Prickly Pear & Rose Gin is our tribute to the spirit of Texas; colorful, complex, and undeniably captivating,” said Justin Meigs, CEO of Waterloo Gin. “Gin drinkers today want more than tradition. They want an experience. Botanical-forward gins are driving premium growth worldwide, and this beautiful new gin delivers authenticity and innovation.”
This release also marks an exciting new chapter for Waterloo Gin, which recently underwent a complete rebrand under the ownership of John Paul DeJoria, the self-made billionaire and philanthropist best known for founding Patrón Tequila and Paul Mitchell hair care. With DeJoria’s guidance, Waterloo has leaned into its premium identity, pairing gorgeous new packaging with a renewed commitment to craftsmanship and creativity. The distillery’s offerings are set to be available in 20 states by year’s end, with nationwide distribution planned by 2026, a bold expansion from its Austin roots into the national spotlight.
The Prickly Pear & Rose Gin joins Waterloo’s acclaimed lineup: Waterloo No. 9 Gin, a citrus-forward New American gin distilled with lavender, grapefruit, and pecan; and Waterloo Barrel-Aged Gin, rested two years in new charred American oak for a whiskey-like depth. Together, they represent the growing sophistication of American craft gin, spirits that honors local Texas terroir while standing up to global standards.
As Waterloo Gin expands its reach, it’s rapidly becoming a name to watch in the American craft spirits scene. At 47% ABV and priced at $34.99 for a 750ml bottle, Waterloo’s latest expression is a statement piece. It’s versatile enough for a White Negroni, a floral gin spritz, and a Southside (see this cocktail recipe below), but it is captivating on its own over ice.
The Waterloo Southside
2 oz Waterloo Prickly Pear & Rose Gin
1 oz simple syrup
1 oz fresh lime juice
4-6 mint leaves, to muddle
Lime peel to garnish
In a cocktail shaker, add the simple syrup and mint leaves. Gently muddle. Next, add the gin, lime juice, and ice. Shake until chilled. Double strain into a coupe glass. Garnish with a lime peel.
So while Texas may be a thousand miles from the closest NYC rooftop bar, Waterloo Gin’s Prickly Pear & Rose would fit right in, proof that the spirit of the Hill Country travels beautifully. For more details and cocktail inspiration, visit www.waterloogin.com.
