​Beverage News from India & the World

The 2024 Spirits-International-Prestige (SIP) Awards at California, USA, judging identified super outstanding selection of top-ranked single malt whiskies and blended Scotch whiskies world-wide. The Indian origin ‘Kadamba Single-malt whisky’ won Gold medal - a testament to its finest Indian craftsmanship and world-class quality that Kadamba whisky delivers for its commitment to purity, precision and finest ingredients. 

The SIP Awards are the world’s only internationally recognized spirits competition which hosts real consumers on the judging panel. To the brand's appreciation, Kadamba Single-malt competed with more than 1,300 brands from 56 countries, judged by whopping 302 spirit enthusiast panelists on the basis of best quality aroma, taste and the finish. This scientifically judging rigorous method ensures accurate and consistent results, highlighting the finest products in each of the categories.

In addition to this, recently Kadamba Single-malt won 'Gold medal' for its exceptional quality, at the 2024 New York International Spirits Competition, an international competition that serves as the ultimate seal of approval in the spirits industry globally. The judging panel chaired jurors of spirits industry experts, with commercial buying responsibility, to ensure that the competition winners were exactly the type of spirits preferred by trade as well as the end consumers.

Commenting on their phenomenal success at these international competitions, Dr. Mohan Krishna, founder of Cheers group stated that, “It’s a moment of great pride for our Kadamba Single-malt whisky to receive grand Global recognition at both SIP Awards and New York International Spirits Competition".

“These awards are a true honor and testament to the very reason Kadamba Single-malt was launched in India and in International markets - to be a brand of choice for all, while continuing to offer a premium experience to our Indian and International consumers. We are extremely delighted that at both the recent International Competitions Kadamba Single-malt bagged 'Gold medals' and performed so well at these global award platforms,” says Ashwin Balivada CEO of Cheers group.
(excerpt from a release) 
Kadamba is available in Goa at Rs 2200.

12th June’24, New Delhi: In an extraordinary collaboration bridging the realms of Westeros and the realm of fine spirits, Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky, in partnership with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, proudly introduces its latest masterpiece inspired by the Game of Thrones franchise - the 'House of the Dragon’ Exclusive Edition. Crafted in homage to the highly anticipated return of the HBO Original Series, House of the Dragon, this exclusive edition stands as a unique partnership, the first of its kind in India's single malt market.
The two exquisite expressions are inspired by the iconic councils of Westeros:
House of Black: Representing the fiery spirit of the Black Council from House of the Dragon, this single malt whisky entices with notes of sweet toffee, creamy vanilla, and subtle peat on the nose. The palate unfolds a symphony of flavours, from sweet chocolate and toffee to hints of earthiness, dates, figs, and vanilla. The finish leaves a lingering impression of sweet richness intertwined with a gentle peatiness, promising a thrilling journey for the adventurous palate.
House of Green: In tribute to the refined tastes of the Green Council, this single malt whisky exudes elegance and sophistication. On the nose, hints of ripe bananas, vanilla, toffee, honey, raisins, and pineapple create an inviting aroma. The palate is delicate yet complex, offering a bouquet of sweet, fruity, floral, and nutty flavours, complemented by elegant spice, chocolate, and dried fruits. As the journey concludes, a subtle sweet finish with lingering fruitiness leaves a lasting impression, reminiscent of the luxurious courts of Westeros.
“Partnering with Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky for their House of the Dragon inspired - series is thrilling. It's a fusion of craftsmanship and storytelling, extending their influence into the lives of fans. We are excited to curate products inspired by Warner Bros. Discovery’s' vast entertainment universe, and this collaboration promises to captivate enthusiasts of both Indri and the Game of Thrones franchise," enthused Vikram Sharma, Head of APAC Consumer Products at Warner Bros. Discovery.
The Indri single malt whisky whispers a tale—a symphony of flavours that dance upon the palate, invoking the senses and stirring the soul. Every sip of this exclusive edition is an invitation to embark on a journey through the ancient annals of Westeros, where legends are born and destinies are forged. With each expression, whisky enthusiasts and fans of the acclaimed series alike can raise their banners and choose a side.
Speaking about the collaboration, Siddhartha Sharma, Founder, Piccadily Distilleries, expressed his excitement, stating, "We are thrilled to embark on this epic journey with Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products to celebrate HBO's House of the Dragon, bringing the rich legacy of Westeros to life through the artistry of our single malt whisky. This innovative partnership sets a new standard for collaboration and creativity, further solidifying Indri's position as the leading whisky brand from India.”
The ‘House of the Dragon’ Exclusive Edition by Indri will be available in select premium outlets in India and exclusively at Delhi Duty Free with price ranging between INR 6000 – 11,500 depending upon the state available in.
 (excerpt from a release)

Amidst the growing renaissance of rum, "Those Good Distillers" introduce IDAAYA in India. A premium sipping rum from the heart of the Himalayas crafted by blending Indian rum and 12 year old Bourbon aged Latin American rums. 

The creation of IDAAYA is inspired by the methodologies of Arthashastra, where in the forgotten pages of our ancient scriptures, a drink was made by fermentation and distillation of sugarcane juice. The mountains are intrinsic to the character of our rum, high mountain altitude, crisp cool air and Himalayan spring water and bring forth a unique character to our rum. 12 YO rum that has been aged in Bourbon casks, blended in a Solera system in Sal wood casks with Indian Rum, using ancient methodologies whilst treating the casks all add to the depth of flavour, with rich aromas to nose.

This craftsmanship brings together a smooth, well-rounded 100% rum with no added sugar and no added flavour. Vibrant deep amber colour that to nose reveals notes of jaggery, vanilla and all-spice. On the first sip, it slowly unravels the caramel notes followed by delicious notes of dark chocolate, jaggery, tropical fruits, dried fruits, all-spice toasted vanilla and oak. 

​IDAAYA has received international acclaim by winning a Double Gold at the International SIP Awards 2024, the only internationally recognized consumer judging spirits competition based in Los Angeles, California. Additionally, it earned a Silver award for Rums made in Asia at The Asian Spirit Master 2024 chaired by The Spirits Business and Bronze at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2024, further solidifying its status as a world-class spirit.

Founder and Chief Everything Officer of IDAAYA, Karishma Manga Bedi further adds, “IDAAYA strives to capture the essence of discovering  a moment of reflection and the spirit of exploration in every bottle. We aim to offer our customers more than just a premium rum; we provide a unique experience that takes them through a doorway of limitless discovery with each sip.By prioritising quality, authenticity, and innovation, we ensure that every bottle of IDAAYA represents our unwavering commitment to excellence in the spirits industry.”
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Currently available at duty free shops in Delhi, Mumbai and Bangalore, this homegrown rum will soon be available in India’s premium restaurants and bars. 
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(includes excerpts from a release)