Be more Gustav

Be more Gustav

The distinguished looking chap on a bottle of Brixton Gin is Gustav Grais, born Gustav Eichler in Marienburg, West Prussia on 1 December, 1860, the son of Carl and Louise Eichler. In England, he changed his name to Grais and ran a circus of baboons and zebras. He was also an accomplished trapeze artist, juggler and an all-round showman. A pioneer of the parachute, he undertook daredevil jumps from gas filled balloons all over the world.

Legend has it, Herr Gustav had three local "wives" and at least 10 children.


This image shows Grais riding along Brixton High Street, close to where he stabled his zebras. Brixton has always been home to maverick characters. Now it has a gin that’s just as bold.

Image source: http://www.urban75.org