The rate of growth in the global gin segment is set to continue, with 19 out of its top 20 global markets predicted to expand sales to 2021, according to the new Global Gin Insights report from just-drinks and the IWSR. The forecast follows another dynamic year for gin in 2017, during which global sales, excluding low-priced products, rose by 7.4% year on year to nearly 35 million nine-liter cases. Growth was widespread, with 39 of the top 50 markets posting gains; 19 of them in double digits, and Europe remaining central. Spain coasted past 5 million cases, with flavored variants helping boost momentum and there were “positive performances” from the U.K., Germany, Italy and France. Only the U.S. among the major western markets declined, with sales dipping below 10 million cases in 2017.