In just two years since its market launch, Arete Puro gin has been more than just a drink – it has become an experience, a moment, and a lifestyle.
Although gin today is enjoyed everywhere, Arete Puro has stood out among those who appreciate authenticity – both in taste and in the story behind their favorite drink. As the first success of the small Zagreb-based craft distillery Aristippus Liquors, driven by the bold and unwavering vision of siblings Martina and David Lekaj to create something different in the gin market, every award or recognition carries even greater significance.
The plan is to expand the story of Arete Puro gin to the most beautiful corners of Europe, as well as to introduce several new drinks that will further build on their current success. Still, the first ones are always remembered!
We bring you the 5 most memorable moments that have marked our journey so far – and the best is yet to come!
1. Launch Party
If there wasn’t a party, did it even happen? Arete Puro gin was officially presented on April 21, 2024, at the well-known Zagreb cocktail bar Peaches & Cream, where numerous influencers, guests, and friends enjoyed this aromatic gin with Mediterranean notes, along with specially crafted cocktails.
“Aristippus Liquors distillery is at the beginning of its journey, but we have big ambitions. Now, we are focused on positioning ourselves in the Croatian market, and in the future, we plan to launch new products and expand beyond Croatia’s borders. The very name of our distillery, Aristippus Liquors, is inspired by the Greek philosopher Aristippus, who is known for his hedonistic concept of moderate pleasure as a path to long-term happiness. We wanted the name itself to reflect a passion for enjoying premium drinks,” emphasized founder Martina Lekaj at the time.
2. Humanitarian Character
In addition to its striking character, visible in its black-and-green bottle as well as its powerful aroma and taste, one of the key features of Arete Puro gin is its humanitarian spirit whenever the opportunity arises. We are especially proud to have supported the Croatian Alliance for Rare Diseases, with the event held at Zagreb’s Club Kontessa.“
We recognized the importance of the Alliance’s work, as rare diseases are often overlooked and underfunded. We believe it is important to encourage society toward care and action,” said Martina Lekaj at the time. We will continue to support important humanitarian projects while creating premium gin for those who value quality with a mission!
3. Audience Award
The end of 2024 was marked by an important award at the second ZGrappa festival, which brings together regional distillers of rakija, liqueurs, and gin. Arete Puro won the audience gold award for best gin – of course!
“We are thrilled that Arete Puro won the audience award for best gin at this year’s ZGrappa festival! It is especially impressive that this was their first appearance at our festival, and they already managed to win the hearts of visitors. This victory shows how an authentic approach, high quality, and passion for craft production always find their way to the audience,” said Marin Levaj, organizer of the ZGrappa festival. Expert recognition is a valuable guide for the future but winning the hearts of the audience – that is our constant destination!
4. Collaboration with Ozana Domić
Arete Puro further enriched its story through collaboration with mixologist and current ambassador Ozana Domić, whose character and pursuit of uniqueness perfectly complemented our brand identity. This collaboration merged the world of premium craft gin with signature cocktails from Ozana’s creative repertoire, creating a unique experience that goes beyond just the drink.
Through this creative synergy, Arete Puro once again confirmed that it is not just about taste, but about aesthetics, emotion, and a story conveyed through every detail – from the bottle to the overall experience.
5. Expanding the Arete Puro Story
Every opportunity to share our story is more than just presenting a product to us. Through events, media, participation in relevant festivals such as GinIstra and ZGrappa, and our presence on social media, Arete Puro is gradually finding its place among lovers of premium gin – not only in Croatia, but beyond.
We are especially delighted by the positive reactions from audiences after tastings and events, as well as the growing number of those who keep coming back to us.
Follow us on social media and say hello when you see us in person! Until then, read our story: https://www.telegram.hr/partneri/mala-zagrebacka-craft-destilerija-u-mediteranski-okus-unosi-rijedak-papar-s-himalaje/.
