Adrián Michalčík, Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2022, will be embarking on a 10 day tour of Asia to showcase new and delicious ways to enjoy Single Malt Scotch Whisky in collaboration with The Singleton. The tour, which kicks off on Wednesday 15th March, will begin in Seoul before continuing onto Manila, Ho Chi Minh and Taipei with a final stop in Tokyo. The region will be the first to showcase Adrián’s journey with The Singleton, following an exclusive preview at Adrián’s bar, Pier 42 at the Amerikalinjen Hotel, in Oslo at the end of last month.
In each market, Adrián, alongside The Singleton Global Brand Ambassador Ervin Trykowski, will be hosting a series of events, providing local industry with an opportunity to work with the World’s Best Bartender through seminars, cocktail cartography, and guest shifts. Prior to the guest shift, Adrián will be visiting local suppliers, exploring regional ingredients and fresh produce that will be used to inspire a unique cocktail menu to be served that evening, made in collaboration with Adrián, The Singleton, and the bar team. 
Alongside the trade events there will also be exclusive ticketed events for consumers, where guests will be invited to enjoy a host of cocktails made exclusively with The Singleton alongside special pairing dishes designed in collaboration with Adrián and inspired by the cultural terroir, pushing the boundaries where mixology and gastronomy collide. 
Among Adrián’s successes at the World Class Global Finals this year, he was named the winner of The Singleton challenge for his cocktail, Equality, inspired by The Singleton’s incredible flavour that disrupts expectations about Scotch Whisky, how and who it should be enjoyed by. The Singleton is proud to be supporting Adrián’s journey to make beautiful Single Malt Scotch cocktails enjoyed by the many, not the few. 
Adrián Michalčík, Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year 2022, says: “I am honoured to partner with The Singleton on this journey to explore the unexpected ways that Single Malt Scotch Whisky can be enjoyed, and to have the opportunity to share these experiences together with the amazing mixology community across Asia. I cannot wait to also explore the outstanding offerings of these great cocktail cities and meet with the bartenders that make it happen.”
The Singleton Global Brand Ambassador Ervin Trykowski said: “The vibrancy of scotch cocktails in Asia is a testament to the region's innovative spirit and enthusiasm for experimenting with new tastes, making it the perfect place for us to bring this unique concept.  We’re looking forward to inspiring cocktail lovers in each city to discover a new way to enjoy The Singleton with the Best Bartender in the World.” 
In addition to his role as Diageo World Class Global Bartender of the Year in 2022 Adrián is Director of Mixology at the award-winning Pier 42 at the Amerikalinjen Hotel in Oslo, Norway. Adrián has a passion for whisky and in particular whisky aperitif cocktails. He also has a keen interest in the relationship between gastronomy and mixology and combines these passions to carefully balance flavours to create simple yet sophisticated drinks delivered with warm hospitality.
World Class x The Singleton Asia Tour Agenda
15th-16th March - Seoul
17th - 19th March - Manila 
19th - 21st March - Ho Chi Minh 
21st - 22nd March - Taipei 
22nd March - 24th March - Tokyo
(Excerpt from a release)

​This March, sip on Sabatini as you welcome the summer! Leading Importer of Wines and Spirits Anggel’s Share takes the team behind the award winning family-owned Tuscan brand Sabatini Gin on a 3-city tour of India.  Immerse yourself in the Spirit of Tuscany as Sabatini’s very own Co-Founder Enrico Sabatini and Mattia Lotti – Sabatini’s Global brand Ambassador take you through a gin-filled week filled with refreshing guest shifts and masterclasses across the country to be-GIN summer on the right note from Tuesday, 14th March to Saturday, 18th March 2023 across Mumbai, Delhi and Bangalore.
Leading the tour across India is the Italian Co-Founder Enrico Sabatini who will be meeting with guests and introducing them to the first gin that combines classic London Dry Gin distilling techniques with Tuscan botanicals and herbs into a stunningly designed bottle resembling the Tuscan landscape.
Come experience exclusive cocktails created by the global brand ambassador Mattia Lotti specially for the tour made using Sabatini Gin like Sabatini Mule which blends the gin with Lime Juice and Ginger beer topped off with a garnish of sage leaf; Tuscany Negroni which mixes the gin with sweet vermouth, dry vermouth and red bitter liqueur and Beetini’s Knees which mixes Sabatini Gin with Lemon Juice and a honey mix. Gin Lovers, A must try is the Last Word is Sabatini an intriguing creation of Sabatini Gin with Green Chartreuse Maraschino Liqueur and Lemon Bitters beautifully decorated with a Lemon Zest and Maraschino Cherry among other creations you can expect!
SCHEDULE FOR THE GIN TOUR :
Wednesday, 15th March 2023 | 8 PM onwards: Guest Shift by Mattia Lotti at Koko, Mumbai
Thursday, 16th March 2023 | 8 PM onwards: Guest Shift by Mattia Lotti at The Library Bar at The Leela,  Chanakyapuri, New Delhi  
Friday, 17th March 2023 | 8 PM onwards: Guest Shift  by Mattia Lotti at Ophelia, The Ashok, Chanakyapuri
Saturday, 18th March 2023| 7.30 PM onwards: Guest Shift by Mattia Lotti at Daysie – All Day Casual Bar, Bangalore
Coming from the recent success of winning the Silver medal in the World Gin Award 2023 in the London Dry Gin category, Sabatini Gin can best be described as a London Dry Gin with a Tuscan soul. Since 2015, the Sabatini Family has been devoted to developing a unique product that is capable of bringing the best of Made in Italy to the world. In a labor of love for their land, the family’s work transmits the story of the natural beauty of the Tuscan hillside, complete with its scents and incomparable views. Four members of the Sabatini family are responsible for creating the Sabatini Gin - Ugo, his two sons Enrico and Niccolò, and Ugo’s cousin, Filippo. 

The Sabatini Gin is a fruit of a perfect union of flavors and aromas, suggestions and history, that of the Sabatini’s who conceived and created it with passion, in love with their land, proud of their origins. There are nine strictly Tuscan botanicals present in Sabatini Gin: obviously juniper, but also coriander, iris, wild fennel, lavender, olive leaves, wild thyme in the Tuscan version called savory, lemon verbena and sage, most of which come from wild plants collected in the gardens of the villa.
“We at Anggel’s Share are thrilled to associate with Sabatini Gin. Our shared commitment to offering gin lovers high-quality handcrafted spirits has made this partnership a natural fit. We’re excited to enhance everyone’s gin experience with Sabatini Gin, and we believe that our collaboration will not only bring a new flavor experience to gin aficionados but also showcase the importance of artisanal craftsmanship in the world of spirits. We look forward to continuing a long and fruitful partnership with Sabatini Gin and can’t wait to introduce gin lovers to the Italian crafts spirits scene” says Vaishali Shah, Partner at Anggel’s Share.
Come sip on Sabatini with us as we welcome the summer together – Tuscan-style!
(excerpt from a release) ​

The newly introduced award for Best Work in Sustainability was won jointly by two Pune bars, Malaka Spice and Cobbler & Crew. Noted restaurateur Riyaaz Amlani was honoured with the Industry Icon award, while Mumbai's three-decade-old Toto's Garage took home the Timeless Bar Award. Other big winners of the evening include Pune bars Elephant & Co. (People's Choice Award for Best Bar) and TOIT Pune (People's Choice Award for the Best Microbrewery/Taproom).  
Among the major cities, Mumbai made the most significant strides in new bar openings and the strength of beverage programs, with 8 bars making it to the Top 30 and four Pune bars taking away awards in individual categories. Cities such as Kolkata and Jaipur also emerged as markets to watch due to the growth of quality cocktail bars and a discerning audience. 
30BestBarsIndia's 2022 ranking is based on a jury poll of more than 250 members across the country. The bars were judged on various parameters, including service, design, ambience, bar menu, bartending team, etc. This year, bars also had the option to self-nominate themselves, and 500 nominations were received from 15 cities. 
The Top 30 bars in India for 2022 are listed below in order of rank*:   
#1 - Sidecar (New Delhi), 2 - Copitas - Four Seasons Hotel (Bangalore), #3 - HOME (New Delhi), #4 - Lair (New Delhi), #5 - The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai), #6 - Comorin (Gurgaon), #7 - Americano (Mumbai), #8 - Slink & Bardot (Mumbai), #9 - Hideaway (Goa), #10 - The Living Room by Masque (Mumbai), #11 - Miguel’s (Goa), #12 - Hoots’ (New Delhi), #13 - Masque (Mumbai), #14 - Cocktails & Dreams (Gurgaon), #15 - The Grid (Kolkata), #16 - Raahi Neo Kitchen and Bar (Bangalore), #17 - Bastian - Worli (Mumbai), #18 - Byg Brewski Brewing Company - Hennur (Bangalore), #19 - Windmills Craftworks (Bangalore), #20 - PCO (New Delhi), #21 - Sanctuary Bar & Kitchen (Hyderabad), #22 - Elephant & Co. (Pune), #23 - AER Lounge - Four Seasons Hotel (Mumbai), #24* - The Library Bar - The Leela Palace (New Delhi), #24* - Whisky Samba (Gurgaon), #25 - Bar Palladio - Narain Niwas Palace Hotel (Jaipur), #26 - Sorano (Kolkata), #27 - Ekaa (Mumbai), #28 - Joseph’s Bar (Goa), #29 - Olterra (Kolkata), #30 -Room Two (Hyderabad). 
*Rank #24 is shared by two bars and hence the number of bars total to 31. 
Speaking on the occasion, Vikram Achanta, Co-Founder of 30BestBarsIndia, said, “Keeping current factors in mind for every edition, last year we focused on the COVID responsiveness of bars and this year we introduced a new category to promote sustainability in the bar industry. Establishing categories ahead of what the industry is building towards will continue to help raise the standards in the country. This year, the introduction of thematic menus and the usage of more Indian ingredients in beverage programs is inspirational and aspirational. The emerging vibrant bar culture coming out of cities like Pune, Jaipur and Kolkata is also encouraging to see.” 

“We are providing a platform for bars across the country to elevate the standards of India’s bar programs. The ranking has become a coveted industry standard, and having five bars from last year’s Top 30 list in Asia’s Top 50 bars is a great testament to our efforts. It’s exciting to see bar teams constantly re-invent and push boundaries – whether it’s by paying more attention to their menus or innovating with ingredients to create hyper localized cocktails,” added Radhakrishnan Nair, Co-Founder of 30BestBarsIndia. 
​(excerpt from a release)

OSTUNI, BR, Italy
Altamura Distilleries, a producer of premium spirits made from the unique wheat of Altamura, Italy will introduce its spirits into the Indian market beginning in January 2023 through a partnership with SS Impex, a New Delhi-based spirits importer and distributor.
​
"We believe the quality and unique smoothness of Altamura vodka will be very well received throughout the Indian market," said Sharat Agarwal, partner at S.S. Impex, "While our initial distribution will be in the northern Indian states, we intend on quickly expanding to the rest of the nation."
"We view India as one of the most important markets in the world for our brand," stated Frank Grillo, managing director of Altamura Distilleries. "India is the third largest spirits market in the world, with rapidly emerging mixology scene and a strong affinity for Italy and Italian products."
"The Indian market is moving swiftly to appreciate premium liquors and consumers here are seeking a more diverse mixology experience," said Gopal Joshi, Altamura's Market Director for India, "Vodka sales are at the forefront of these trends with sales increasing nearly 30% especially in the premium segment. This is exactly where our vodka is positioned."
"We will be bringing Mixology Master Classes led by some of the most renowned Italian bartenders to India," Grillo commented. "And we look forward to jointly sponsoring some of India's best mixologists to visit Italy and conduct guest shifts at some of the most famed Italian venues."
The Altamura Vodka will be available in the Uttar Pradesh & Uttarakhand regions beginning in January 2023. In addition, Altamura and SS Impex plan to introduce Altamura's London Dry Gin into the Indian marketplace in early 2023.

Based in Ostuni BR, Italy, Altamura Distilleries is what can happen when three Americans decide to act on their lifelong dream of moving to Italy. Our love of warm weather, beaches, and life led us to Puglia, a special region in the south of Italy. Our love of food led us to discover Pane di Altamura, a traditional bread from the Puglia region. And our love of all things distilled led us to realize that an amazing loaf of bread is just an amazing bottle of vodka, gin, or whiskey waiting to happen. We believe that our origin is in Puglia and we are there to live our dream. For more information visit https://www.altamuradistilleries.com/en/
(excerpt from a release)

The forthcoming BBW, which will take place from 6th to 8th February 2023 at Fira de Barcelona’s Montjuic venue, will be attended by around 700 exhibiting companies, 15% more than in 2022, increasing the event’s surface area by 5%. Four months before it’s due to be held, 80% of BWW has been booked, with the participation, among others, of firms such as Protos, Matarromera, Rioja Vega, Recaredo and Freixenet and Designations of Origin (DOs) like Cava, Bierzo and Valderroas.
 With more than 60 DOs on display, the fair will promote the plurality and territorial diversity of wine in Spain more than ever before.
Under the slogan Spain, a unique mosaic of soils, BWW 2023 will offer a programme of talks, tastings and food and wine pairings conducted by around a hundred renowned experts, who’ll highlight the great wealth of soils that make up the Spanish winegrowing territory. This geological diversity and the climate make Spain one of the countries with the greatest potential for wine production.
We should highlight the tasting that will bring together four Masters of Wine turned winemakers from different areas of Spain for the first time. These include Norrel Robertson, who’s been producing wines in Calatayud since 2003, Almudena Alberca, the first female Master of Wine in Spain and now a producer in La Rioja, Ribera del Duero and Valdeorras, and Fernando Mora, who owns vineyards in different parts of Aragón. Multi-award-winning sommeliers who have become winemakers will also take part in a joint tasting.
In order to promote the international projection of Spanish wine, the fair intends to invite more than 500 key international buyers with the strategic involvement of ICEX Exportación e Inversiones. These purchasing decision-makers will come from the main importers of Spanish wine, including the United States, Germany, the Netherlands, Canada, the United Kingdom, Denmark, Colombia, Mexico, China, Hong Kong and Poland.
Spain is the world’s leading wine producer and the third largest exporter, according to the data provided by ICEX. In 2021, it exceeded €2,956 million in wine exports and was very close to its record. €3,006 million, reached in 2018.
Another of the major challenges for the sector is increasing domestic demand, which is why BWW 2023 will invite 1,300 key buyers from the domestic market (large-scale retail, wholesalers, specialised distributors, retailers and gourmet stores). A total of more than 8,000 business meetings between the fair’s exhibitors and professional buyers are expected to take place.
 The most recent BWW in April 2022 brought together more than 650 exhibiting companies, 60 Spanish Protected Designations of Origin (PDOs) and over 18,000 professional visitors. These included 470 major international buyers from strategic markets, who participated in more than 6,600 business meetings with the exhibiting companies.
(excerpt from a release)

 

Australian wine exports declined by 1 per cent in volume to 627 million litres and 11 per cent in value to $2.01 billion in the year ended 30 September 2022, according to Wine Australia’s latest Export Report released today.
While the decline is reflective of the tough market conditions over the past two years – including high deposit tariffs on bottled Australian wine imported to mainland China, the impact of the global freight challenges, and the aftermath of changing consumer habits during the COVID-19 pandemic – the figures also reflect that value is starting to stabilise.
Wine Australia Manager, Market Insights Peter Bailey said that the results were mixed in the year ended 30 September 2022, with the increases recorded in some markets offset by declines in others. “As a moving annual total result, the Export Report can demonstrate the performance of Australia’s exports and highlight some growing trends. In this report, we’re seeing the tail end of the decline in exports to mainland China having an impact on the total export figures; this is expected to wash out of the figures by the end of 2022,” Mr Bailey said.
When mainland China is excluded from the data, wine exports to the rest of the world held steady in value, declining by 0.2 per cent to $1.99 billion and increasing by 1 per cent in volume to 622 million litres. There was a decline in exports to the United Kingdom, Hong Kong and Singapore, which is a result of the return to anticipated shipment levels. This decline to the UK has been delayed compared to other markets with similar COVID-19 consumption patterns, such as the United States and Canada. Exports to the North America and Southeast Asia regions are showing growth. In particular, strong growth was recorded in exports to the US, Canada, Malaysia and Thailand. Pleasingly, the growth trend in the US and Canada was driven by both ends of the price spectrum; premium wine exports continued to grow and unpackaged commercial exports increased, as shipments of the record 2021 vintage accelerated following a slower than usual start due to global shipping pressures. Furthermore, the number of exporters to the US is at the highest level since 2008 and of the exporters to the US that ship wine at a value of $10 or more per litre free on board (FOB), 75 per cent experienced growth demonstrating that green shoots continue in the market for premium Australian wine. However, while total exports look to be stabilising, the wine sector can continue to expect market fluctuations, as rising inflation and interest rates may put pressure on margins and curtail consumer spending in key markets. On a positive note, over the past few months, the Australian Dollar has depreciated against the US Dollar, which assists Australian wineries to be more competitive in the US.

Australian wine exporters shipped to 118 destinations during the period, up from 111 the previous year. The strongest growth came from North America, up 6 per cent to $604 million, and Southeast Asia (up 15 per cent to $291 million). However, the large decline to Northeast Asia (down 46 per cent to $321 million, driven by mainland China) and to Europe (down 12 per cent to $621 million, driven by the UK’s return to more normal shipping levels) outweighed the growth to other regions.
The top five markets by value were:

• US (up 5 per cent to $412 million. 21 per cent share of total export value)
• UK (down 14 per cent to $395 million. 20 per cent share of total export value)
• Canada (up 10 per cent to $190 million. 10 per cent share of total export value)
• Hong Kong (down 21 per cent to $163 million. 8 per cent share of total export value), and
• Singapore (down 16 per cent to $132 million. 7 per cent share of total export value).

The top five markets by volume were:

• UK (down 12 per cent to 222 million litres. 36 per cent share of total export volume)
• US (up 14 per cent to 139 million litres. 22 per cent share of total export volume)
• Canada (up 26 per cent to 62 million litres. 10 per cent share of total export volume)
• New Zealand (up 14 per cent to 32 million litres. 5 per cent share of total export volume), and
• Germany (down 7 per cent to 31 million litres. 5 per cent share of total export volume).

North America
Exports to the US increased by 5 per cent in value to $412 million and 14 per cent in volume to 139 million litres. There are several drivers of the growth. One of which is that the volume of unpackaged wine shipped to the US increased by 53 per cent to 68 million litres during the period. The substantial size of this increase is because the Australian 2021 vintage was the largest on record and the shipments of this vintage had been delayed due to the ongoing global freight challenges. In the past few months, shipments of this vintage have intensified.
Secondly, packaged wine declined by 1 per cent in value to $319 million and 9 per cent in volume to 71 million litres. As volume declined more than value, the average value of packaged wine increased by 9 per cent $4.47 per litre FOB. Driving this increase in average value is the decline of packaged commercial wines (mainly the $2.50 to $4.99 price segment) and an increase in exports above $7.50 per litre FOB, up 32 per cent to $71 million.
Wine exports to Canada increased by 10 per cent in value to $190 million and 26 per cent in volume 62 million litres. The largest driver of the increase in volume was growth in unpackaged wine shipments. The volume of unpackaged shipments increased by 44 per cent to 36 million litres.
The increase in total value of exports to Canada was driven by packaged shipments, especially at the premium end. The value of packaged shipments increased by 11 per cent to $156 million while volume increased by 7 per cent to 26 million litres. Shipments valued at $5 per litre FOB and above grew by 18 per cent in value to $122 million, the highest value for this price segment since 2009.
United Kingdom
Exports to the UK decreased by 14 per cent in value to $395 million and 12 per cent in volume to 222 million litres. This decline in wine exports to the UK was expected, if somewhat delayed. There were two factors elevating exports to the UK since 2020. Firstly, the Brexit transition period saw an increase in exports ahead of the 31 December 2020 deadline. Secondly, Australian wine holds the number one position in the off-trade – a category that benefitted greatly from the closure of the on-trade during the COVID-19 pandemic, and now, as the on-trade has opened back up, there is a counter-swing in the demand for Australian wine. While this counter-swing occurred much earlier in the US and Canada, another two markets where Australia has a larger share of the off-trade than on-trade, the shift has been much slower in the UK and exports are only now starting to be affected.
Asia
Exports to Northeast Asia declined by 46 per cent in value $321 million and by 31 per cent in volume to 35 million litres. The main contributor to this decline was exports to mainland China (down 92 per cent to $21 million) and exports to Hong Kong (down 21 per cent to $163 million). Exports to Hong Kong are returning to a more normal level after an increase in shipments to the market in 2021. Offsetting some of the declines were exports to Japan and Taiwan, which rose by 18 per cent and 13 per cent respectively. Exports to South Korea dropped by 5 per cent in value to $43 million; the decline took place in exports valued below $7.50 per litre FOB (down 44 per cent), while exports above $7.50 per litre increased by 30 per cent.
Exports to Southeast Asia increased by 15 per cent in value to $291 million and 39 per cent in volume to 24 million litres. Several markets increased in value, including Thailand (up 95 per cent to $53 million) and Malaysia (up 55 per cent to $59 million). This growth was slightly offset by a decline in exports to Singapore, dropping 16 per cent to $132 million; shipments to Singapore are also normalising after an elevated level of shipments in 2021 and 2022.
​(Excerpt from a release)

Gordon & MacPhail is unveiling a collection of exceptionally rare whiskies from closed distilleries across Scotland – a new annual series of single cask releases from its revered liquid library.
 The ‘Recollection Series’ features a trove of whiskies from distilleries lost to the mists of time, giving enthusiasts and collectors a unique opportunity to enjoy forgotten masterpieces.
 From the Private Collection range, personally selected by members of Gordon & MacPhail’s owning family, come a 1982 from St. Magdalene Distillery (Linlithgow), a 1982 from Glen Mhor Distillery (Inverness), and a 1981 from Lochside Distillery (Montrose). All whiskies are bottled at cask strength and non chill filtered.
 
The whiskies, each matured in Gordon & MacPhail’s own casks, exemplify Gordon & MacPhail’s patient approach to maturation, guided by the principle that ensuring quality is always the key motivating factor. The releases from St Magdalene, Glen Mhor and Lochside distilleries are available worldwide, with other releases in the series available in select international markets.
 
Stuart Urquhart, Operations Director at Gordon & MacPhail said: “We’re excited to release a series that revives and celebrates the spirit and character of these closed distilleries from across Scotland. Each remarkable expression is vanishingly rare and captures an unrepeatable moment in Scotland’s rich liquid heritage. Having carefully assessed the progress of each spirit down the decades, we feel now is finally the right moment to reveal these landmark single malts. We hope the annual series will excite single malt enthusiasts keen to try something different, and irreplaceable.”

Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1982 from St Magdalene Distillery [RSP £2249.99/ $3499 USD]*
The 39-year-old whisky has been matured in casks #2094 – a refill American hogshead – and will be available worldwide.

• ABV: 54.8%
• Outturn:  165 bottles
• Aroma: Baked apple aromas lead to demerara sugar and faint dried herbs. Grapefruit zest develops accompanied by white chocolate and freshly cut grass.
• Taste: Dried pineapple flavours infuse with passion fruit and crystallised violet. Lemon curd comes to the fore alongside subtle icing sugar and a faint herbal edge.
• Finish:  White pepper and charred oak linger on the finish with citrus fruit.
• About the distillery: Built in the Royal Burgh of Linlithgow in the mid-18th century by Sebastian Henderson who rented the lands of St. Magdalene’s Cross Convent from the Countess of Dalhousie to build the distillery. The operation of St Magdalene throughout the 20th century, though the distillery became one of nine permanently closed by the company in 1983. The distillery was renovated into residential flats in the early 1990s, though its malting barn and kiln, which are registered as C Grade listed buildings, remain.

 
Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1982 from Glen Mhor Distillery [RSP £2249.99/ $3499 USD]*
The 40-year-old Glen Mhor whisky has been matured in a refill Sherry hogshead and will be available worldwide.

• ABV: 50.8%
• Outturn: 174 bottles
• Aroma:  Rich Sherry influences with toasted hazelnuts and subtle milk chocolate. Morello cherry notes develop alongside sweet treacle toffee.
• Taste: Intense stewed fruit leads to pressed apple and demerara sugar. Raspberry compote combines with soft white pepper and a hint of dried tobacco.
• Finish: A full finish with citrus and summer fruit.
• About the distillery:  Designed by Charles Doig, the distillery was built in in 1892 by John Birnie and Charles Mackinlay. Unusually, the Highland based distillery remained water-powered until the 1950s and had Saladin maltings installed in 1954. It was eventually demolished in 1986.

 
Gordon & MacPhail Private Collection 1981 from Lochside Distillery [RSP £3199.99/ $4999 USD]*
The 40-year-old whisky has been matured in a refill Sherry hogshead and will be available across worldwide markets.

• ABV: 49.2%
• Outturn: 141 bottles
• Aroma: Rich Sherry aromas complement fragrant mandarin peel. Salted almonds come to the fore with raspberry compote and faint malted biscuit.
• Taste: Roasted coffee beans lead to walnuts and stewed raisins. Blackcurrant jam accompanies Seville orange peel and red apple.
• Finish: A long finish with lingering hazelnuts and cocoa powder.
• About the distillery: Lochside was a brewery from 1786 until its closure in 1957. It incorporated a white tower – a classic German brauhaus design – that was reinterpreted by Charles Doig in 1899. The site was then purchased with the new owner installing a Coffey and he set about installing a Coffey still, swiftly followed by four pot stills in 1961. The Coffey still was decommissioned and the distillery ran until the early 1990s before it was finally closed and sold to developers before being demolished in 2005. 

 
*Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties.
(Excerpt from a release)
​

 Grey Goose’s “House of Change” is a specially curated multi-faceted series that focuses on providing expertise to bartenders to help them go beyond their bartending skill sets. The program aims to set them on a journey to discover a clear, defined, and purposeful career in mixology. In its effort to give back to the community that has been supporting the brand for so long, Grey Goose is all set to revisit another series of scouting and celebrating India’s behind-the-bar talents. With its fourth edition on the horizon, the ever-evolving “House Of Change” program by Grey Goose will  collaborate with the Singapore Tourism Board to create an experience that brings the program to a higher level.
 
Adtnu Tiwari, Senior Brand Manager, Premium White Spirits, Bacardi India Private Ltd., says, “Grey Goose’s “House Of Change” initiative has come a long way. From a nascent stage to now entering its fourth edition, the program focuses on providing value to the mixology community by strengthening their foundational skills. We aim to propel, encourage, and inspire the creative geniuses behind the bar by setting forth an engaging series of experiences and providing a platform for emerging mixologists. With The Singapore Tourism Board coming on board as a collaborator, the experience will surely be elevated.”
​
Singapore, known for its lifestyle, events and entertainment scene, was a natural choice for this partnership as it is a treasure trove of vibrant bar and cocktail cultures. The city boasts of some of the top tier bars that have been on the list of Asia’s 50 Best Bars. The partnership with Singapore Tourism Board will scale up this year’s edition, making it bigger than before. With some of the best bars in India enrolling for the program, Grey Goose will appoint mentors across the bar industry that specialize in the trade of Entrepreneurship, Content Creation, Grooming and Styling, Travel and Luxury.
 
These mentors will impart a few tricks of the trade and conduct masterclasses and training sessions. The second phase of the program will evaluate the candidates through observation of skill sets acquired during the masterclasses. Finally, a selection of 8 bartenders will be rewarded with a trip to Singapore to further ignite their passions and be inspired by their counterparts and mentors from Singapore.
(Excerpt from a release)

· Offers choice of over 10,000 premium restaurants across India and Dubai
·  40% discount on specific credit cards at hand-picked premium restaurants in India and Dubai
·  Customised birthday celebration offers for premium cardholders

Axis Bank, India’s third-largest private sector bank, in partnership with EazyDiner, India’s leading table reservation, food discovery and restaurant payment platform, has announced the launch of Dining Delights, a unique and enriching dining experience for the Bank’s customers. The program will offer a host of benefits such as the option to choose from over 10,000 premium restaurants across India and Dubai, instant confirmation on table reservations, and exclusive offers on dining reservations made through the EazyDiner app.
As per EazyDiner real time data analytics, there has been a surge of ~132% in the number of
customers who prefer to discover and dine-out at premium restaurants, as compared to pre-Covid
times. This significant recovery is led by Delhi NCR, Mumbai and Bengaluru followed by Goa, which is now emerging as a stronger destination since the last two years. Additionally, customers are eating out 3.2 times a month as opposed to 2.1 times a month, pre-Covid, with significant momentum picking up across the country. This new initiative by Axis Bank and EazyDiner is aligned to serve an increasing number of customers who want choice, variety and convenience while dining out, all at one go.
In addition to the exquisite dining experience, Dining Delights will soon offer ‘Celebrations with Axis Bank and EazyDiner’ an exclusive birthday celebration experience for premium cardholders, who can enjoy personalised dining recommendations for their birthday by the culinary concierge at EazyDiner and also avail 50% off on their meal. All arrangements and bookings will be done by the personal culinary concierge. To make it a grander celebration, Axis Bank will offer a complimentary birthday cake or signature dessert.
Axis Bank Dining Delights - Click here and enter an exclusive world of dining privileges.
(Excerpt from a release)

New Delhi, India
Today, leading Australian wine brand, Jacob’s Creek announced the launch of Unvined, a non-alcoholic wine with less than 0.5% alcohol, available in two varietals - Riesling and Shiraz. Unvined, a modern expression of winemaking, is the perfect answer to occasions when one wants to enjoy a glass of wine without the alcohol content yet retaining the true character of the original styles and flavors.
​The winemakers at Jacob’s Creek use sophisticated technology which removes alcohol whilst capturing most of the original aromas and flavours of the wine. The Unvined range has 50% less calories than regular wine of the same varietal, catering to the evolved consumer base looking for varied options to suit their preferences and mood. With the introduction of these two new varietals under non-alcoholic wine category, Jacob’s Creek truly delivers on a coveted portfolio of wines that everyone around the table will want to reach for.

Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India, said: “Non-alcoholic wine may sound counterintuitive and something out of the ordinary, however sometimes it’s exactly what the evening calls for. The idea behind creation of Unvined was to ensure that everyone is able to celebrate important life moments with their friends and family in a way that fits with their lifestyle. Given Jacob’s Creek’s vast expertise in winemaking, we have created a product that has a perfect balance of taste while preserving the natural grape profile. We are proud to release Unvined in India. It is an exceptional product with less than 0.5% alcohol and a faithful expression of premium wines from Australia”.
 
Unvined Riesling offers attractive citrus, lime and floral notes that are typical of Australian Riesling. The light bodied palate of the non-alcoholic wine with refreshing fruit notes is balanced by a crisp acidity on the finish. While Unvined Shiraz has appealing plum, blackberry and spice notes distinctive to a South Australian Shiraz. Its medium bodied palate delivers sweet fruit and light toasty oak flavour supported by soft ripe tannins. Unvined can be readily enjoyed with a wide selection of foods. For the Riesling white meat, seafood dishes and salads make for a perfect companion. For the Shiraz, lighter style curries go perfectly well.
 
Unvined Riesling and Shiraz are available in select retail outlets in Delhi and Mumbai and pan-India through Amazon India at INR 900/-. (Excerpt from a release)​

The International Wine Challenge, the world’s most influential, impartial and rigorously judged wine competition, has announced the results of its 2022 competition and India also had its first taste of Gold Medal success, with a sparkling rosé wine Sula Brut Tropicale Cremant De Nashik NV produced by Sula Vineyards. The highest medal previously won by India was a silver in 2015.

Thousands of wines from over 50 countries entered the competition which was judged by an international panel of wine experts in a series of rigorous blind tastings held in London last month and France continued its winning streak as the most awarded country in each medal category, with 75 Gold, 367 Silver and 442 Bronze medals. The Champagne region alone picked up 30 Golds, with Rare Champagne claiming the prestigious Champagne Trophy for its Rare Millésime 2008. Rhône producer Maison Delas Frères succeeded in reclaiming the International Syrah Trophy from New Zealand for the first time in almost a decade for its Les Bessards 2019 and France also retained the International Pinot Noir Trophy for a seventh year in a row. The winning wine, Clos de la Roche Grand Cru Cuvée Cyrot Chaudron Hospices de Beaune 2020, from Burgundy producer, Maison Albert Bichot, was also crowned with this trophy last year for its 2019 vintage.

After being pipped to the post for two years running, New Zealand reclaimed the International Sauvignon Blanc Trophy this year, with Yealands Estate Single Block S1 Sauvignon Blanc 2021.New Zealand was also recognised for its world-class Chardonnay, being awarded the International Chardonnay Trophy for the very first time, a category that has traditionally been dominated by French wines. The top performing wine was the Gimblett Gravels Chardonnay 2020 from Hawke's Bay producer Trinity Hill Wines.

Australia was awarded an impressive 54 Gold Medals in this year’s competition, coming second only to France. South Australian producer, Pinnacle Drinks won the International Grenache Trophy for its The Ethereal One Fleurieu Grenache 2020 -  the first time in IWC history that an Australian wine has won this accolade.The Australian White Trophy also went to a Tasmanian producer, with Tolpuddle Vineyard Chardonnay 2020 also claiming both the Australian and Tasmanian Chardonnay Trophies.

Oz Clarke, Co-Chair of the International Wine Challenge commented, ‘It is always fantastic to see award-winners from countries with little to no previous experience of success in the Challenge. As well as the notable Gold Medal for India, we also saw medal winners from Kazakhstan, Wales, Sweden and Switzerland, countries that consumers might not necessarily associate with winemaking. An International Wine Challenge sticker serves as a mark of quality, and gives consumers the confidence to try wines from different countries and in different styles.’

The World’s 50 Best Bars today announces the launch of its inaugural 50 Best Bars Scholarship, in partnership with The Blend – the global trade advocacy programme for the hospitality industry by Beam Suntory. This marks the first time in 50 Best’s storied history that the organization will offer a scholarship to an aspiring bartender. 
The 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship is open to any bartender from anywhere in the world aged 21 or over with fewer than three years’ experience. The winner will be rewarded with a trip to complete two bar stages (internships) in London and New York. The first will take place at Connaught Bar, the two-time winner of The World’s Best Bar title, in 2020 and 2021. The second will be at Katana Kitten, a previous winner of the Best New Opening Award in 2019 and currently ranked No.10 in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2021 list. The winner will then be hosted by The Blend Global Team for an experience of a lifetime in Madrid. Flights between these destinations will be included and the lucky winner will receive £500 per week living expenses to enjoy the host cities. 
The details
Applications will open on 19th May via The World’s 50 Best Bars website and close on 20th June. Applicants can find further information to help with their entry at www.theblend.world. The winner of the scholarship will be announced at the ceremony for The World’s 50 Best Bars later this year.
The launch of the 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship represents a key moment in the brands’ drive to prioritise development opportunities and experiences for aspiring bartenders across the globe. The theme of the Scholarship for 2022 is Future Positive, which comes with the ambition to cultivate practices and attitudes that will have a positive impact for the planet, for guests and the hospitality community. It will reward bartenders who take a low-waste or local approach to ingredients and push for greater diversity, better representation and balance within workplaces. Applicants will need to show a readiness to contribute to this outlook in order to be selected by the illustrious judging panel as the inaugural 50 Best Scholar (see The Selection Process below).
 
The team says
 
Mark Sansom, Director of Content for The World’s 50 Best Bars, says: “We could not be more excited to launch the 50 Best Bars Scholarship, in partnership with The Blend by Beam Suntory. It’s an initiative we have been planning for several years and it is truly excellent to be able to work with a brand such as Beam Suntory, which shares our vision to professionalise the craft of bartending and support bartenders with a future-gazing ideology. We look forward to receiving applications from all over the world as we give this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to someone that will undoubtedly set their career into overdrive.”
Agostino Perrone, Director of Mixology at Connaught Bar, says: "We at Connaught Bar are very excited to host the first-ever winner of the 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship for a learning experience with us. I look forward to assessing the applications and giving the opportunity to the deserving winner to take part in this amazing experience."
Further details, including the date and location of the awards ceremony for The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022, where the Scholarship winner will be announced, will be unveiled on 25th May.
Applications to 50 Best Bars The Blend Scholarship officially open on 19th May at 09:00 GMT+1. Enter at: Worlds50BestBars.com/scholarship 

The selection process
The 50 Best Scholar will be selected after a three-stage judging process, which will feature leading lights of the bar industry
·  Round One: Applicants will be asked to share their vision of Future Positive and what it tangibly means to them as a bartender as part of a video application and questionnaire format. A total of 25 applicants will be selected to go through to Round Two.
 
·  Round Two: The shortlisted candidates will be asked to design a drink inspired by the theme and that heroes one local ingredient as well as documenting the research, development and process that goes into making their chosen cocktail. For this second stage, 50 Best has recruited previous winners of its Sustainable Bar Award and other stalwarts of the bar industry. The guest judges include: Vijay Mudaliar (Native and Analogue, Singapore), Ashish Sharma (The Surf Club, Miami), Jean Trinh (Alquímico, Cartagena), Kelsey Ramage (The Trash Collective, USA), Claire Sprouse (Hunky Dory, Brooklyn) and Luke Whearty (Byrdi, Melbourne), to help select the top five applicants who will make it to the final round. 
 
·  Round Three: For the five finalists, the third stage will comprise a rigorous interview process with 50 Best; The Blend by Beam Suntory; a representative from B-Corp; Director of Mixology for Connaught Bar, Agostino Perrone and Masahiro Urushido, Managing Partner of Katana Kitten. 
The three finalists will be hosted at The World’s 50 Best Bars 2022 awards ceremony, where the winner will be announced. The internships will take place in 
(excerpt from a release)

One of India's top annual  bartender extravaganza, Diageo's World Cocktail competition has announced 13 finalists for the 2022 edition. 
​Here is where you can connect with these bartenders on Instagram or find them behind the bar in action at their place of work. 
Aashie Bhatnagar / @tiny_drinks / The Ritz Carlton Pune
Arati Mestry/ @the_negroni_moron / 7 Rivers Brew Co, Bengaluru
Kshitij Goel / @thecocktailtimes / The W; Goa
Kumar Mongalam / @kumar_mongalam / Farzi Cafe; Kolkata
Md Shabaz/ @md._.shabaz / The Saz; Kolkata
Navjyot Singh/@the_baldbartender / Lair; New Delhi
Prakhar Singhal/ @prakhar.singhal96 / Prost; Hyderabad
Pratik Gusain/ @pgmixologist / Elgin Cafe, 
Rohil Kalita/ @rohil_kalita / Hotel Four seasons, Bengaluru
Sahil Essani/ @sahil.essani / Tajmahal Hotel; New Delhi
Saurav Samanta / @cocktail_junction / Opa Kipos, Mumbai
Shobith Salian /@mr_liquidchef / Mato Mato, Thane
Sia Negi / @sianegi_ / The Leela Palace, New Delhi. 

Australian wine exports decreased by 26 per cent in value to $2.05 billion and 13 per cent in volume to 628 million litres in the year ended March 2022, according to Wine Australia’s latest Export Report released today.
The year-on-year figures continue to reflect the impact of the imposition of high deposit tariffs on bottled Australian wine imported to mainland China in November 2020 and of the exceptionally tough market conditions globally. Exports excluding mainland China declined by 3 per cent in volume but increased by 7 per cent in value to $2.03 billion – the highest value since 2010. Key drivers of the value growth were in markets including Singapore, Hong Kong, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan and Japan indicating that market intensification and diversification is having an impact. In the 12 months ended March 2022, Australian exporters shipped wine to 112 markets and 71 experienced value growth.
Wine Australia General Manager Corporate Affairs and Regulation Rachel Triggs said while the increase in value excluding mainland China was strong at $129 million, it did not come close to offsetting the decline in value to mainland China (a loss of $844 million). “Over the past 15 months, Australian wine exporters have had to navigate through an exceptionally challenging operating environment, largely led by the imposition of high deposit tariffs on bottled Australian wine imported to mainland China, the continuing impact of the global freight crisis, and a counter-swing in some markets after COVID-19 related stockpiling in 2020." Ms Triggs said.  
The decline in total wine export volume, excluding mainland China, was most significant to Australia’s two biggest markets of the United Kingdom (UK) and the United States of America (US). Exports to these markets surged during 2020 due to COVID-19 stockpiling for the off-premise trade, but demand has since eased as pandemic restrictions relaxed.
“Low inventory after three small consecutive vintages and delays in getting the record 2021 vintage onto ships from the ongoing global freight crisis also contributed to the decline in volume of wine exports. Shipping industry experts to do not expect these issues to resolve until the second half of 2022 at the earliest,” Ms Triggs said.
In the 12 months to the end of March 2022, the top five markets by value were:

• UK, down 2 per cent to $449 million,
• US, down 4 per cent to $416 million,
• Hong Kong, up 24 per cent to $184 million,
• Canada, down 13 per cent to $171 million, and
• Singapore, up 96 per cent to $168 million.

The top five markets by volume are:

• UK, down 6 per cent to 246 million litres,
• US, down 5 per cent to 127 million litres,
• Canada, down 7 per cent to 51 million litres,
• Germany, down 8 per cent to 34 million litres, and
• New Zealand, up 6 per cent to 33 million litres.

Europe
The UK is the number one destination for Australian wine exports in value and volume. In the 12 months ended March 2022, exports to the UK decreased by 2 per cent in value to $449 million and 6 per cent in volume to 246 million litres (27 million 9-litre case equivalents).
A decline of 9 per cent in export value below $5 per litre FOB, to $357 million, outweighed growth within the above $5 FOB per litre segment of 36 per cent to $92 million. The strongest rates of growth came at $10 to $19.99 FOB per litre, up 51 per cent to $21 million. It is the highest value in this segment in this 12-month period since 2009 and the number of exporters in this price point increased from 236 in 2021 to 248 in 2022.
Excluding the UK, exports to Europe declined by 6 per cent in value to $233 million and 7 per cent in volume to 104 million litres. European markets to record value growth included Denmark, up 13 per cent to $40 million, Norway, up 2 per cent to $8 million, and Poland, up 71 per cent to $7 million.
North America
The US is the second ranked destination for Australian wine exports by value and volume. In the 12 months ended March 2022, exports to the US declined 4 per cent in value to $416 million and 5 per cent in volume to 127 million litres (14 million 9-litre case equivalents).
About three-quarters of the value shipped to the US was at below $5 FOB per litre, which declined by 10 per cent to $325 million. There was growth in the price points at $5 FOB or more per litre with a strong increase recorded at $10 FOB or more per litre, up 37 per cent to $53 million – the highest value in this price point in a March Export Report since 2009. There were 27 additional exporters in this price segment compared to the previous year, taking the number to 233, and there are more than 100 additional exporters to the US in this price point compared to a decade ago.
Canada is the third biggest destination for Australian wine by volume and fourth by value. In the 12 months ended March 2022, Australian wine exports to Canada decreased by 13 per cent in value to $171 million and 7 per cent in volume to 51 million litres (5.6 million 9-litre case equivalents). A decline in exports below $10 FOB per litre more than offset growth at $10 FOB or more per litre. Exports at $10 FOB or more per litre increased by 8 per cent to $26 million, the highest for this time period since 2011.
Asia
The most significant growth in overall exports in the 12 months ended March 2022 came from Australian wine exports to Southeast Asia, which grew 63 per cent to $281 million. Exports to Northeast Asia declined 70 per cent to $337 million, driven largely by the decline to mainland China.
Hong Kong is the largest destination in the region by value, and exports increased by 24 per cent to $184 million. Australian wine exports to Singapore almost doubled in value to $168 million. The value of exports to Japan rebounded strongly in the 12 months to March 2022, up 15 per cent to $51 million with strong growth at $2.50 to $4.99 FOB per litre and at $10 FOB or more per litre. Exports to South Korea and Taiwan increased by similar rates (almost 30 per cent to $45 million and $28 million respectively) with the $10 FOB or more per litre price segment driving growth to each destination. The price segment accounts almost half the value of exports to South Korea and almost 60 per cent to Taiwan. Other strong performances were to India, up 134 per cent to $15 million, Thailand, up 85 per cent to a record $38 million, Philippines, up 74 per cent to $12 million, and Vietnam, up 82 per cent to $7 million.
(Excerpt from a release)

Wine Australia has welcomed the announcement that the Australian and Indian Governments have signed the Australia–India Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (AI ECTA).
When the AI ECTA enters into force, preferential tariff treatment will be afforded to premium Australian wine imported to India, making Australia the first major wine producing country to negotiate such arrangements.
Wine Australia General Manager Corporate Affairs and Regulation Rachel Triggs said, “There is potential for growth in the sale and consumption of Australian wine in India with Australia already having the greatest share of the imported wine market. In particular, the AI ECTA will make India a more viable proposition for small to medium winemakers who have not previously contemplated entering into that market.
“The wine culture in India is maturing as consumers discover and learn more about wine. It’s exciting to contemplate Australian winemakers playing a role in that maturation, and the AI ECTA will make it easier for them to do so,” Ms Triggs said.
Through the AI ECTA, India has also agreed to extend any preferential arrangements for wine afforded to other trading partners in future to Australian wine.
“The strengthening of the relationship between India and Australia through the AI ECTA creates an excellent platform upon which we can pursue a meaningful dialogue with India about regulatory and technical matters relating to the trade in wine.
In the 12 months to the end of December 2021, Australian wine exports to India increased by 81 per cent in value to $12 million – a record value of Australian wine exports to India. Volume also increased by 71 per cent to 2.5 million litres, and 74 per cent of this volume of wine was red wine.
The common customs tariff on wine imported to India is 150 per cent, making it a challenging market for imported wine.
In accordance with the AI ECTA, tariffs on Australian wine with a cost, insurance and freight (CIF) value of over US$5 per 750ml bottle will decrease to 100 per cent upon entry into force, with a further phased reduction of 5 per cent per year for 10 years down to 50 per cent. Tariffs on Australian wine with a CIF value of over US$15 per 750ml bottle will decrease to 75 per cent upon entry into force, with a further phased reduction of 5 per cent per year for 10 years down to 25 per cent.
Wine in India – fast facts

• According to IWSR, Australian wine held a 42 per cent value share of the imported wine category in India in 2020, well ahead of Italy (14 per cent), France (12 per cent) and Chile (11 per cent).
• IWSR reports that 72 per cent of the volume of wine consumed in India is produced domestically.
• Euromonitor International reports that a rising middle class, increasing urbanisation, an inclination towards imported wine, and a shift in consumer preferences from hard spirits towards wine are expected to drive wine consumption in the forecast period, which is predicted to reach 55.5 million litres by 2025, up from 29.2 million litres in 2020.
• Euromonitor International reports that the most popular red wines in India include Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz, while for white wine Chenin Blanc and Sauvignon Blanc are popular.

(Excerpt from a release)

Blended Scotch whisky, Chivas, has unveiled a fresh new look for its flagship blend - the biggest redesign in Chivas’ 112-year history. Chivas 12 - one of the world’s biggest-selling Scotch whiskies - has undergone an extensive redesign of its bottle, label, and pack to usher in a striking new look that blends boldness, modernity, and status while still flexing the luxury and distinguished heritage long associated with Chivas.
 The redesign sees the iconic Chivas 12 bottle reshaped and elongated to stand taller and prouder while still retaining its recognisable rounded shoulders. A redesigned crest shines a light on the beating heart of Chivas – the ‘luckenbooth’, a symbol embodying the Chivas values of ambition, generosity and unapologetic success.
 The outer box has undergone a complete renewal with a vibrant burgundy replacing the familiar silver and gold tones as the principal colour scheme. The package retains the intricate detailing and textured finish loved by Chivas fans worldwide.
 The entire redesign project was conceived with sustainability at its heart as part of company’s target of 100% recyclable, reusable, compostable or bio-based packaging after few years. The new bottle is lighter, saving over 1000 tonnes of glass annually, while the outer packaging is now made from fully recyclable materials. The whisky in each bottle remains the same renowned smooth, rich and generous Chivas 12 blend.
 The redesign is inspired by the aesthetics of a new, style-conscious generation of Scotch Whisky drinkers who are reforming and re-evaluating what luxury looks like.
 Commenting on the new look of the iconic Chivas 12, Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India, said, “This is a colossal change for the brand, that seeks to introduce the new generation of Chivas drinkers to vibrant choices. The new design adds Boldness, Modernity and a bit of flash to the Iconic and Timeless heritage of Chivas. Through the redesign, we aim to build a stronger connect with our millennial consumer, who is unapologetic about their success and choices in life. Sustainability has been at the helm of reconceptualising Chivas 12 for a new conscious generation. The redesign also brings the brand’s commitment to sustainability to the forefront.” 
 ( Excerpt from a release)

The second edition of the annual national ranking of the best bars in the country takes one more step towards the finale with the announcement of the shortlist of the 50 top-ranked bars and 20 top-ranked microbreweries. These lists are based on the votes cast by a jury of 200 bar enthusiasts and industry experts spread across 10 cities in the country.
 
Besides the Best Bar, each jury member was asked to vote in the following six categories:  Best Hotel Bar, Best Restaurant Bar, Best Independent Bar, Best Microbrewery or Taproom, Best Cocktail Menu, Best Bar Design. A special technical jury of 25 industry professionals also voted for two additional categories - Best Bar Team and Best Bartender.
 
The 50 top ranking bars and the 20 top ranking microbreweries are now eligible for the People Choice Awards for the Best Bar and Best Microbrewery or Taproom. These awards are based on an online public poll on social media. This poll will open on January 30 and end on February 15, 2022. 
 
The Best Pandemic Response Award, which has been specially introduced for the year 2021 for a bar whose owners and managers used the best of their creativity and innovation to keep their business running during the dark days of the covid-forced shutdown. The top 100 Bars were asked to submit their entries to share the measures they implemented that saved jobs and helped the bar stay connected with the community.
 
The best bar ranking for 2021 will be unveiled at the 30 Best Bars 2021 Awards ceremony. The Gala night which was to be held on January 19, 2022, has now been rescheduled keeping in mind the ongoing pandemic. The new dates will be announced as soon as the government eases restrictions.
 
There are a total of 53 bars on the 30 Best Bars 2021 list, as three sets of bars polled the same number of votes leading to three positions in the ranking being occupied jointly by two bars each. Out of the 53 bars, as many as 32 are new entrants. Only 21 bars survive from 30Best Bars 2019 top 50 list.
 
An interesting mix of cities feature in the 50 best bars list. New Delhi & Bangalore lead the way with 9 and 8 bars respectively. Mumbai & Goa follow with 7 bars each, Kolkata with 6, Chennai & Hyderabad with 4, Gurgaon & Pune with 3. Interestingly Jaipur and Guwahati also feature on the list, with one bar each.
 
A total of 21 microbreweries make it to the top 20 ranking, with two outlets polling the same number of votes. Bangalore, expectedly leads the list of cities with the best microbreweries, with 8 outlets on the list, followed by Mumbai with 4, Pune with 3, and Gurgaon with 2. Goa, Kolkata, New Delhi, and Chandigarh contribute 1 each.
 (Excerpt from a release)

Wagram becomes the 17th wine-growing region in Austria that can apply the protected DAC designation to wines with regional typicity. Sekt with a protected designation of origin (Sekt g.U. (PDO)) will be named Sekt Austria (PDO) from now on. And the Kremstal region is gaining nine legally defined Ortswein (villages wines) origins.
THREE LEVELS OF WAGRAM DAC: GEBIETSWEIN, ORTSWEIN & RIEDENWEIN
After intensive deliberation, the Wagram region submitted a draft DAC decree, which has now been signed by the Austrian Minister of Agriculture, Sustainability and Tourism, Elisabeth Köstinger. This makes the protected designation of origin “Wagram DAC” the seventeenth of its type in Austria.
Like other regions before it, Wagram decided to subdivide its DAC wines into the categories Gebietswein (regional wine), Ortswein (villages wine) and Riedenwein (single-vineyard wine). At the Gebietswein level, the traditional range of 13 permitted grape varieties is retained, including both white and red varieties. Gemischter Satz (field blend) and cuvée blends are also allowed. With regard to Ortswein, the DAC decree establishes 27 protected designations of origin. The number of permitted grape varieties is reduced down to just seven. These wines must be monovarietal. The pinnacle of the origins pyramid is represented by Riedenwein, namely wines from a single, legally defined vineyard. The flagship white varieties of the Wagram region, Grüner and Roter Veltliner, are permitted for these wines, as is Riesling.
All wines must correspond to the definition of a “dry” wine, and the whites must under no circumstances have a dominant woody note. The decree applies to wines from the 2021 vintage onwards.

SEKT G.U. (PDO) IS REPLACED BY SEKT AUSTRIA (PDO)The collective amendment also ushers in a significant change for Austria’s sparkling wines. From now on, Sekt with a protected designation of origin (Sekt g.U. (PDO)) can only be sold in conjunction with the terms “Sekt Austria (PDO)”, “Sekt Austria Reserve (PDO)” or “Sekt Austria Große Reserve (PDO)”. The aim of this move is to ensure that the 100% Austrian origins of these Sekts (grapes from Austria made into Sekt in Austria) is communicated more clearly. Austrian Sekt is easily identified by the red-white-red banderole on the top of the bottle.
“Our Sekts are of the highest quality and are becoming increasingly sought-after on the international stage,” Yorke explains. “By employing the designation “Sekt Austria” for sparkling wines with all-Austrian origins, we are creating a clear position and profile for these premium wines, which come in three classes.”
Strict regulations apply to Sekt Austria (PDO), based on those governing the best sparkling wines in the world. For example, Sekt Austria (PDO) must be aged on the lees for at least nine months, the Reserve for at least 18 months, and the Große Reserve, for at least 36 months (replacing the previous 30). Hand-picking is compulsory for Reserve and Große Reserve. While the grapes used for Sekt Austria (PDO) and Sekt Austria Reserve (PDO) must come from a single federal state, those for the Große Reserve must be harvested within a single municipality; single-vineyard Sekts are also possible in this class.
(excerpt from a release)