South Seas Distilleries and Breweries Private Limited, a legacy Alcobev company launched ‘Crazy Cock’ – their first retail whisky brand with 2 expressions the Double Oak and Dhua. An ode to the mythical rooster sporting a monocle, the name symbolizes a new era for home grown whiskies, celebrating the Indian subcontinent, and distilling its best flavors for whisky enthusiasts across the globe. South Seas Distilleries founded in 1984 by Mr Viraf Chinoy, is located in Dahanu on the northern coast of Maharashtra and has become synonymous with crafting exceptional luxury whiskies and spirits. The company's journey is a remarkable story of entrepreneurial vision across 4 generations of a Parsi family, enabled from pioneering distilleries set up since 1929, through the trials and tribulations of prohibition, to a rebirth in 1975, and the setting up of South Seas in 1984 - a fitting illustrious successor to extend one of the oldest distillery legacies in India. Known for setting up the countries biggest copper pot stills and maturation house, South Seas who has been producing the malt for others finally launches its own. Crazy Cock stands out as an exceptional single malt whisky crafted from 6-row Indian barley, carefully selected from the pristine plains of North India. The barley undergoes malting and distillation using the traditional method in copper pots. The whisky is matured in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, for a full-bodied, complex flavor. Specially smoked batches add a rich, peaty dimension reserved for Crazy Cock Dhua. "In the dynamic landscape of global spirits, Indian whiskies are currently enjoying a spotlight. Our esteemed clientele includes some of the world's leading alcohol beverage giants, a testament to our longstanding partnerships. Shifting from corporate engagements to catering to individual connoisseurs of luxury, our distillery has been honing the art of distillation for over three generations. This initiative is a celebration of our enduring craftsmanship, as we joyfully continue our legacy by crafting a new array of exceptional whiskies under the banner of Crazy Cock.” Said Mr. H.V. Chinoy
The MRP in Mumbai for the Double Oak expression is 8900/- and Dhua is 12500/- per 750 ml bottle. Anggel's Share, a prominent importer specializing in exquisite wines and spirits launches Tequila Rose the revolutionary and globally top-selling strawberry cream liqueur in Mumbai.
In 1996 Tequila Rose emerged as the first-of-its-kind drink to challenge convention by pairing cream with something other than Irish whiskey. Tequila Rose is an exciting alcohol liqueur that is a unique blend of strawberry-flavoured real dairy cream mixed with a splash of Mexican tequila. Strawberry cream provides sweetness, softness and roundness with a hint of Tequila that gives the spirit liqueur great body, depth and structure. Price - Rs 4800 for 700ml (Mumbai) Baagh is not your traditional gin. Unlike most gins which are juniper forward, Baagh boasts a citrus-forward profile that combines the zesty tang of Nagpur orange and the crispness of lime, complemented by subtle hints of spice. But Baagh also goes beyond being a great tasting gin. A portion of profits from Baagh, will be dedicated to agrobiodiversity and re-wilding initiatives in Assam, in partnership with The Balipara Foundation. The distillery also sources ingredients from local farmers, ensuring that the land and its people benefit from the production process. All of which is captured in its tongue in cheek line, ‘No Planet No Party’.
CEO and Founder Jatin Dev Bobb along with his founding partners Mohamed Rizwan and Manu Chandra established Chhota Hazri Spirits in a post-Covid world. The name takes inspiration from the traditional refreshment consumed by troops stationed in Northern India during the 19 th century, as well as the morning rituals followed in certain army regiments and boarding schools to this day. This gin is incredibly smooth and enjoyable to drink even when sipped on its own. Crafted with the Indian palate in mind, it’s delightful notes of fresh citrus and impeccable smoothness are truly enhanced when paired with tonic and soda, complemented by a refreshing citrus slice. Baagh is available in select retail outlets, restaurants, and bars in Mumbai at a recommended retail price of Rs 1995. Join us in raising a glass to the planet while enjoying a great-tasting gin. (excerpt from a release) For the first time in France, players from the global rum ecosystem will meet for three days to
discuss the major challenges and opportunities that shape the future of the sector. Buyers and public institutions from more than 20 producing countries, as well as players from the entire rum value chain, will be expected in Paris. The World of Rum 2024 is a dynamic forum for announcing new initiatives in the Rum Ecosystem and sharing experiences and innovative ideas. This first edition will have no less than 50 exhibitors and 22 countries representations. As a partner of the event, Business France will be supporting a group of 20 companies in its Overseas pavilion. The opportunity to discover exceptional artisanal rums, with more than 25 brands: agricultural rums, arranged rums, amber rums, white rums, old rums and many more. A pioneering event: rum beyond tasting Unlike traditional events focused on tasting, the World of Rum stands out for showcasing the entire Rum Ecosystem: producers, distributors, manufacturers, harvesters, international buyers, influencers, manufacturers of bottles, casks, yeast, etc. A unique opportunity to discover young French distillers, new 100% ecological packaging solutions, the prowess of artificial intelligence in serving the Rum Ecosystem and the virtues of sugar cane for the benefit of the pharmaceutical industry. For Patrick LOGER, event organiser: “Given the worldwide craze for rum, this first international edition in Paris is an opportunity for all the players in the Ecosystem, from all horizons, to explain and understand the strong international growth of the market for this spirit.” France and rum: an artisanal revolution underway At the heart of this taste revolution, France is a pioneer for the rum industry. The creation of new distilleries right in the heart of the metropolis is testimony to this rise, propelling the country to the forefront of the international scene. Young French entrepreneurs are starting to create spirits and embody a revival in French-style artisanal excellence. From Saint Pierre to Miquelon, via Brest, rum has the wind in its sails and is asserting itself as the only spirit to record growing demand for the 26-49 age group. A trend that highlights the flourishing innovation that characterizes the French rum landscape. An exploration of trends and mixology The World of Rum acts as a catalyst for emerging trends in the world of spirits. International speakers and professionals will share their success stories in the Wines and Spirits industry. With in particular Japan and its high-quality whiskeys, Mexico and its tequila and of course France with its champagne. The new French rum players will join the discussion to highlight their innovative production practices and their relationship to sugar cane cultivation. Internationally renowned bartenders will decipher the exciting evolution of mixology, which contributes to the development of rum, particularly in Asian countries. (Excerpt from a release) Paul John Indian Single Malt announces the launch of the limited Paul John Christmas Edition 2023, the 6th release of the exclusive Paul John Christmas Edition series. Made at the award-winning distillery of John Distilleries in Goa, India, and with just 8,682 bottles released across all
markets this unpeated single malt of 46% ABV is a much awaited Collectors Whisky. Matured in ex-bourbon casks, finished in a Single Vintage Colheita Tawny Port Cask, and with no added colours or flavours, the Paul John Christmas Edition 2023 stands as a testament to the brand's dedication to crafting unforgettable whisky experiences. Aromas of creamy vanilla custard, dark chocolate, and rich dry fruit lead to deep flavours of sweet oak, velvety mocha, warm caramel, vanilla, and a subtle hint of spice on the palate. The finish is exuberantly fruity and delightfully long. ‘Our first Christmas Edition was released in 2018 with a very limited number of bottles, and ever since we have found this annual release to be much awaited across all markets,” remarks Paul P John, Chairman, John Distilleries Pvt Ltd, “This anticipation always inspires us to create even more special and exclusive editions every year, and this year we’re hoping to add more joy to the festive season and have chosen to release the Paul John Christmas Edition 2023 earlier than usual." (Excerpt from a release) Spaceman Spirits Lab of Samsara fame have set foot in the Rum game with the launch of Sitara. They have come up with 2 expressions, a white and a spiced. The Maiden Voyage, is a blend of the finest rums distilled on the tropical shores of the Indian Peninsula.
The first release from the Maiden Voyage, is a barrel aged white rum, a blend of column & pot distilled Indian rums that are aged in Virgin American Oak barrels and then charcoal filtered to achieve a clear and delicious rum. The second release, a Botanical Spiced Rum is also a blend of column & pot distilled Indian rums, however, this expression is aged for a longer duration and then blended with seven botanical distillates to create a spiced rum with a distinctively Indian personality. SĪTÄRĀ Barrel Aged Rum (INR 1200) and SĪTÄRĀ Botanical Spiced Rum (INR 1350) are now on shelves across Goa with other select states to follow soon! Himmaleh Spirits, India’s first traceable distillery focused on artisanal spirits, today announced the launch of its first product, Kumaon & I - a provincial dry Gin that celebrates the unique terroir and rich flavours of Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region.
With a strong focus on farm-to-bottle and sustainable sourcing, Himmaleh Spirits is a family-owned and independent artisanal spirits distillery founded by Ansh Khanna and Samarth Prasad. The company aims to encourage consumers to drink better by shaping not just a legacy of spirits but also a legacy of social and environmental responsibility. Its hyperlocal approach drives it to work only with botanicals from Uttarakhand, fostering sustainable progress for the region. About Kumaon & I – India's First Provincial Gin A careful curation from the house of Himmaleh Spirits, Kumaon & I is an all-natural Himalayan dry Gin made from fresh Himalayan spring water. It embodies a unique selection of 11 regional botanicals that are slowly distilled at source for 9 hours, to extract the maximum flavour and lend a distinct texture to the spirit. Among its standout botanicals are Timur, a berry-like Szechuan pepper that infuses a delightful fusion of fruitiness and spice, and Black Turmeric, cultivated at an altitude of over 10,000 feet, endowing it with an extended growth cycle and a richly concentrated flavour. This is complemented by coriander seeds and two distinct citrus fruits – Galgal, a local citrus variety, and Kinu, which introduces nuanced sweet undertones. Label & Bottle Design The logo and bottle design draw inspiration from the traditions and culture of the Kumaon community. The black circles symbolise the circularity of sustainable farming, while the lines embody the commitment to traceability through local sourcing and the dedication to the ‘farm to bottle’ ethos. The colours (white and red) trace their roots to Aipan, a local hand-painted art form drawn on a smooth surface of wet ochre mud (Geru), which is red. A white paste (Bisvar), made by grounding cooked rice in water, is used by women to draw patterns on this surface. Ansh Khanna, Co-Founder of Himmaleh Spirits, said, “Having witnessed the incredible wealth of natural resources in India, we decided to delve deeper into using a hyperlocal approach to spirit production. We are thrilled to introduce Kumaon & I, India’s first premium provincial Gin crafted from unique Himalayan botanicals like Timur and Black Turmeric, along with local citrus fruits like Galgal. These ingredients create an earthy essence and an unmistakable mouthfeel that encapsulate the flavours of Uttarakhand.” Current Availability: Rs 2,700 (Uttarakhand), Rs 2,896 (Goa), RS 3000 (Gurgaon) (Excerpt from a release) Mumbai, Maharashtra, India East Side Distillery, Goa-based craft spirit company, announces a prestigious win for its latest venture, Portal Gin. Portal Gin has bagged the prestigious Silver Award at the 2023 Asian Gin Masters held in Hong Kong. This remarkable achievement follows in the footsteps of DOJA Gin, the world's first Indo-Japanese Gin, also crafted by ESD, securing the same accolade at the highly regarded Asian Gin Masters in 2022. Portal is a London Dry Gin, meticulously crafted using an array of botanicals including juniper berries, coriander, lime, orange, angelica root, thyme, liquorice root, black pepper, green cardamom, and ginger root. Each botanical is intricately measured and blended to achieve the perfect symphony of flavours, culminating in a gin that stands unparalleled in terms of both taste and quality. As a result, this gin exudes a harmonious and refreshing profile, possessing a complexity and sophistication that belies its remarkably affordable price point. Reflecting on this win, Victor De Benito, Head Distiller & Global Brand Ambassador, East Side Distillery and Member of the Gin Guild said, "Our journey at East Side Distillery is about more than just creating beverages; it's about creating experiences. Each bottle we produce is a fusion of tradition and innovation, encapsulating the rich tapestry of global influences that inspire our craft. This win reinforces our belief that quality should be accessible to all, and Portal Gin, with its intricate botanical blend, is a testament to that vision.”
( Excerpt from a press release) HAMILTON, Bermuda- -Bacardi Limited, the largest privately held international spirits company in the world, announced today the completion of a transaction that makes the family-owned company the sole owner of ILEGAL Mezcal®, a leading super premium artisanal mezcal. The transaction follows a successful relationship in which Bacardi partnered with ILEGAL since 2015. The super premium plus mezcal category is growing at a fast pace and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 16% over the next five years according to IWSR. Between now and 2027, the agave category – which includes both mezcal and tequila – is expected to be the sixth largest category globally, and it recently overtook American Whiskey to become the second largest category (by value) in the U.S. At 86% of global market share, the United States dominates the super premium mezcal category. (Source: 2022 IWSR). “We believe that ILEGAL has the credentials to own and lead the super premium mezcal category at a global level. ILEGAL perfectly complements our portfolio and bringing it into our business sets the brand up for even greater growth as mezcal captivates more and more consumers,” says Barry Kabalkin, Vice Chairman of Bacardi Limited. “Bacardi and ILEGAL have a shared commitment to communities, quality, and environmental sustainability that we will build upon together as we look to invest for the long term. As a family-owned business for seven generations, we are always building for the future to maintain the legacy that is Bacardi,” says Mahesh Madhavan, Bacardi Limited Chief Executive Officer. ILEGAL, recognized globally for its lifestyle branding, also prides itself on being a responsible and sustainable business. They work with fourth-generation maestros mezcaleros in Santiago Matatlán, Oaxaca, Mexico. ILEGAL Mezcal is double distilled in small batches using 100% Espadin agave. ILEGAL Mezcal is 100% natural and uses no artificial colors, yeasts, flavors, or additives. It is certified as artisanal mezcal by the Consejo Regulador del Mezcal (CRM).
John Rexer created ILEGAL in 2006, after years of working with small distillers in Oaxaca to make mezcal for his bar in Guatemala. John’s goal has been to bring the finest artisanal mezcal to a global market. He has worked closely with the distillers in Oaxaca to create sustainable jobs, and to be a positive force in protecting the environment and preserving local culture. John will continue to guide the vision of the brand. “We are excited about the next stage of the journey,” says John Rexer. “Success for ILEGAL goes beyond seeing more of our bottles on shelves; it’s about building our business the right way. We will always be committed to artisanal production, the Oaxacan community, and our core values. Being a part of Bacardi will bring ILEGAL to a larger audience while maintaining our commitment to sustainability and growing the business responsibly.” ILEGAL Mezcal is available in Joven, a full-bodied agave flavor with a light smoke; Reposado, aged six months in medium-charred American oak; and Añejo, aged to taste for 13 months using a combination of new and used American oak, medium char barrels. (Excerpt from a release) Premium alcohol brands have continued to grow and sell in the face of the global cost of living crisis, reveals a Euromonitor International expert. Spiros Malandrakis, Head of Alcoholic Drinks at leading market research firm Euromonitor International, said that from champagne to ultra-premium English gin and from Tequila to prestige Dark Rum all the way to non-alcoholic spirits and aperitivo-embracing bitters, premiumization remains firmly in the spotlight. “This is premiumisation against all the odds. Aspirational momentum is overcoming the cost of living crisis. In fact, iconic segments that are now intricately associated with aspirational consumption and increasingly higher end offerings are among the top sales performers,” said Spiros.
The purchase of premium wines, spirits and non-alcoholic alternatives by consumers during the steepest inflationary spirals in modern history reflects the diverse range of consumer behaviours and motivations that exist within a population. For many consumers indulging in premium products is seen as a way to enjoy occasional luxuries or as a form of escapism. The consumption of premium wines and spirits can also be viewed as a status symbol or a reflection of personal taste and sophistication. Some consumers are willing to allocate a portion of their income to maintain their desired lifestyle, impress others and demonstrate their social standing or expertise in the field of wines and spirits. Spiros said: “The inexorable march towards ever more premium offerings has been a key theme and driver for the alcohol industry for decades and there is no category that remains impervious to the trend’s relevance and long-term appeal. As one of the steepest inflationary spirals in modern history places extraordinary pressure on drinkers’ discretionary incomes, the premiumization mantra is being put to the test and the results are proof of how solidly embedded it has now become. Contrary to expectations and parallels to previous recessionary cycles, there are no significant signs of sustained or heavy trading down - at least not just yet!” (Excerpt from a release) A new Gin brand from Goa flavoured with juniper berries, cardamom, coriander, oranges, pepper, and cucumber is now on shelves. SOCI is from the House of Good Barrel Distillery Pvt Ltd., a craft liquor platform in collaboration with Living Liquidz and is founded by Mokksh Sani & Lalit Kalani. Talking about the originality behind the name ‘SOCI,’ Lalit Kalani elaborated, “SOCI is all about shedding inhibitions and hence the Garden of SOCI and the serpent symbolise this. We are going for the animalistic vibe and drinks that make you feel alive. The jungle seems to come to life, creatures awakening from their mid-day slumbers, birds beginning to chirp incessantly, all making a move toward the watering hole for a much-needed drink. Shoulders rub, conversations unfold, and most importantly, curious discoveries make their way into the light - the true faces behind the masks are revealed. With that said, SOCI is inspired by the spirit of society, one that seeks and thrives on secrets and curiosity.”
Shedding a light on the inspiration behind creating SOCI Gin, Mokksh Sani said, “Gin, as a category, has been enjoying a steady increase in consumption over the past few years, and young Indian consumers are swaying towards gin because of its versatility. Consumers nowadays are open to experimenting and are constantly looking out for something new and are drawn towards artisanal & craft beverages. With SOCI, we want to offer younger drinkers a great quality liquid that is trendy, non-complicated, and easy to drink. A gin that helps drinkers be themselves - let go of their inhibitions and reveal their true identity to the world.” (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) 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.
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.
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.
*Prices in international markets may vary due to local taxes and import duties. (Excerpt from a release) Salud Beverages made its mark on the world's stage with all 3 of its entries into the prestigious London Spirits Competition coming away with medals. Salud G&T 2.0 Lavender won Gold, while Salud G&T 2.0 Cucumber and Salud Sonic walked away with Silver.
"This is a real honour, and validates our belief that we have had from the start that our offerings are world-class", said Founder Ajay Shetty. What makes the London Spirits Competition stand apart from other competitions is it awards spirits for their overall appeal to the drinking audience. Where other competitions focused solely on technical competence and distilling prowess, the London Spirits Competitions goes further to evaluate a spirit for its all-around excellence – in the way it tastes, looks and the value it provides. "The crafting and refining of each Salud gin refresher was done keeping an eclectic modern global palate in mind, while being an ode to the new Indian consumer whose tastes increasingly align with their world counterparts. These awards are a reaffirmation of our efforts to create spirits that uncomplicate the drinking experience and have universal appeal." Adds Master Blender, Sid Kumar. (Excerpt from a release) Salud Beverages has launched a new range of essential bitters to elevate your drink, food and social experiences. Salud has been stirring up the ready-to-drink segment in India by uncomplicating the drinking experience with its Gin Refreshers, and with its latest offering of three new non-alcoholic bitters, the brand is set to shake things up again.
Salud Bitters are made of completely natural ingredients with no artificial flavouring. Bitters are an aromatic, concentrated infusion of botanicals, herbs, fruits, spices, and roots that has become a staple in bars and kitchens across the world for their unique properties and complexity. Some of the world’s most famous and best loved drinks would be incomplete without the layers of flavour and balance achieved only with the use of quality bitters. Salud's bitters add a new dimension to more than just drinks. Salud’s selection of bitters are available in three flavours Tropical Dew Mangoes and Grapefruit from the tropics combine with Mediterranean Rosemary to create a vibrant fruit and herb infusion Summer Dust The coolness of pear with the tartness of pineapple creates a burst of summery flavour that lingers on the palate. Citrus Twist Orange, tangerine and lemon pack a citrus punch for a bright pop of flavour that's fresh and full of character. Besides its ready-to-drink Gin Refreshers and non-alcoholic Bitters, Salud has also been busy exploring essentials to help you unwind with Salud Sessions, a brand supported collection of chill deep house music produced by the best DJs and artists in the industry and Salud Merchandise, an exclusive line of clothing and accessories developed in appreciation for clean and contemporary wardrobe basics. Price: INR 499 Availability: 15th April onwards in select outlets and online stores. (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) Bengaluru, India
Salud Beverages, the makers of Ready to Drink brand G&T 2.0 is is now launching 3 more pour and enjoy variants; a Watermelon & Mint G&T 2.0, Salud Strong, and Salud Sonic. They are price at Rs 130 for 275 ml WATERMELON & MINT G&T 2.0 The oh-so-cooling vitality of watermelon and the zesty thrill of mint meet for an experience like a summer holiday in a bottle. STRONG (8% alcohol) Classic English Juniper-crafted gin gets an update with an effervescent aerated twist and a stronger kick. SONIC SOda and toNIC – a classic Japanese mix – with an Indian twist highlights this low-sugar gin refresher with just 99 calories. For more details , go to https://www.salud.co.in/ For a second time this year, Campbeltown-based Glen Scotia has been recognised for its whisky-making abilities after scooping yet another prestigious award. The distiller has been named the Scottish Whisky Distillery of the Year at the Scottish
Whisky Awards, an accolade it receives just seven months after being crowned as the ‘Best in Show’ and thus Best Whisky In The World 2021 at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC) for its Glen Scotia 25-Year-Old expression. It is the first time that one distillery has won both awards in the same year, demonstrating the increasing stature and visibility of the Campbeltown whisky producer. Glen Scotia hails from Scotland’s smallest whisky-producing region. Once known as the “Victorian Whisky Capital of the World,” in its heyday, the small coastal town was home to over 30 distilleries. Today, Glen Scotia is one of just three surviving distilleries but through a programme of continued investment and local effort, Glen Scotia is growing its presence in the UK and international markets, allowing the potential of Campbeltown to once again be realised. Iain McAlister, Master Distiller and distillery manager at Glen Scotia, said: “For a long time Campbeltown was the forgotten whisky region, however, in recent years there has been a real resurgence in interest in the type of whisky we produce here. From the Victorian era until the present day, whisky has always been at the heart of this community. The techniques and craftsmanship that make our whisky so unique have been passed through generations, and I am thankful that we have managed to revive the whisky- making heritage of Campbeltown long after many of its distilleries fell away." Excerpt from a release ( Glen Scotia is represented in the sub-continent by Fermentras India) Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded Single Malt Scotch Whisky brand, has partnered with BlockBar, the premier non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace for luxury wine and spirits products, to launch a series of 15 limited edition liquor NFTs. Each NFT corresponds to a physical, exceptional bottle of a 1973 46 year old Armagnac cask finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky that is sold by Glenfiddich. The tokens are offered exclusively through BlockBar’s innovative NFT platform, which enables Glenfiddich to digitize and sell exclusive spirits products as NFTs directly to consumers, whether for personal consumption, collecting, or investment purposes. Upon purchasing the NFT, the buyer can then become the owner of the real-world physical product represented by the NFT, with the NFT serving as a digital receipt that verifies the buyer’s ownership and the authenticity of the product. The buyer has the choice at any time to resell or transfer the NFT through the BlockBar platform or to redeem it for the physical version. The benefits of purchase doesn’t stop there; BlockBar is also responsible for storing the product and, upon request, delivering it to the buyer. Glenfiddich, the world’s most awarded Single Malt Scotch Whisky brand,
has partnered with BlockBar, the premier non-fungible token (NFT) marketplace for luxury wine and spirits products, to launch a series of 15 limited edition liquor NFTs. Each NFT corresponds to a physical, exceptional bottle of a 1973 46 year old Armagnac cask finish Single Malt Scotch Whisky that is sold by Glenfiddich. The tokens are offered exclusively through BlockBar’s innovative NFT platform, which enables Glenfiddich to digitize and sell exclusive spirits products as NFTs directly to consumers, whether for personal consumption, collecting, or investment purposes. Upon purchasing the NFT, the buyer can then become the owner of the real-world physical product represented by the NFT, with the NFT serving as a digital receipt that verifies the buyer’s ownership and the authenticity of the product. The buyer has the choice at any time to resell or transfer the NFT through the BlockBar platform or to redeem it for the physical version. The benefits of purchase doesn’t stop there; BlockBar is also responsible for storing the product and, upon request, delivering it to the buyer. GlenFiddich 1973 The dram will come in a 70 cl bottle at 43.9% ABV and presented in a Baccarat Crystal decanter. Nose Sublime, rich and lusciously fruity. Dark fruits, like plums and figs, complemented by sensational sweet syrup notes that reflect the incomparable influence of the long finishing in ex-Armagnac Butts. Taste Very deep and rich with lots of tannin and robust oak notes overlaid with an elegant vanilla sweetness from its years in American oak. (Excerpt from a release) Bangalore, Karnataka, India
Salud Beverages, an Urban Lifestyle brand that was launched in Karnataka earlier this year, raised USD 1.1 million as of March 2021. Salud Beverages, an Urban Lifestyle brand that was launched in Karnataka earlier this year, raised USD 1.1 million as of March 2021. The VC fund, comprising actors and HNIs includes serial entrepreneur and leading Indian actor Rana Daggubati, and former Managing Director of Microsoft India, Srinivas Koppolu, among others backed by Prasad Vanga’s Anthill Ventures. The fund was primarily used to establish a formidable retail presence with flagship brand Salud G&T 2.0, a bottled gin and tonic cocktail, as well as to build a diverse product portfolio. This resulted in G&T 2.0 being available in over 500 retail outlets, with 250,000 bottles sold and a consumer base that is growing every passing day. After successfully launching the brand in Karnataka, bringing out the country's first RTD gin and tonic in a bottle, Salud followed it up by introducing Salud Merch and Salud Sessions. Salud Merch offers an exclusive range of fashion and lifestyle merchandise and accessories. Salud Sessions, the music label, collaborates with leading DJs from around the country creating compilation volumes of electronic beats, accompanied by music videos. Sharing his views on Salud’s journey so far and about the market at large, Ajay Shetty, Founder-Director, Salud Beverages said, "We are a focussed brand striving to put India on the global map, alongside the best countries in the world, with some of the finest spirits including bottled cocktails, craft spirits, non-alcoholic beverages and more. And not to stop there, but continue to innovate with products and experiences that will lead to a loyal consumer base, on the way to our big-picture goal of becoming an aspirational global lifestyle brand." Ready-to-drink (RTD) cocktails are fast becoming the drink of choice – from millennials to connoisseurs alike. Everybody is warming up to the idea of bottled cocktails, and it cuts across demographics, culture and lifestyle. Salud G&T 2.0 is currently available in three refreshing flavours - Original, Cucumber and Lavender, all of which are distilled in Goa. These bottled cocktails are made of English Juniper, botanicals sourced from Europe, and the finest Indian tonic, giving consumers a premium quality experience with affordable pricing. The Indian alcobev ecosystem has become increasingly dynamic in recent times. This is a result not only of many players entering the market but also the appetite of a consistently growing consumer base that has shown great interest in healthier, more responsible and more unique and modern drinking options. Reports indicate that the global size of RTD cocktails market is expected to clock USD 1775.1 million by 2028, and India is ripe with potential, ranking among the top 3 largest alcoholic beverage markets in the world. In the coming days, Salud will expand its footprint into other markets such as Goa and Orissa and additional domestic markets. It will also be adding new flavours to the G&T 2.0 range, as well as expanding with new offerings in both, the alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage segments. It expects to triple its current sales by the end of FY 2021-22. Entering international markets in the Middle East and Europe is also a part of the long term strategic plan that should materialise by the end of the year. (Excerpt from a release) New Delhi, Delhi, India
Seagram’s 100 Pipers, the largest selling Scotch whisky in India, continues to achieve bigger milestones and set new benchmarks in the industry. It has proven itself to be a market leader, thought leader, and innovation leader. In the last business cycle, Jul’20 - Jun’21, 100 Pipers has broken not one but two records. 100 Pipers became the first & only Scotch brand in India to cross the 1 Million+ case mark in annual sales, twice - a solid stamp on the consumers’ love for the brand. Adding to this success streak, the brand’s premium variant ‘100 Pipers Blended Scotch, Aged 12 years’ crossed 100,000 Cases in annual sales for the first time ever since its launch in 2012. A notable performance by the aged variant – it is now the largest selling 12-Year-Old Scotch in India, confirming that “Age Matters” to the discerning Indian scotch aficionado. Asserting its dominance in the Scotch whisky market, the brand had recently launched a new variant ‘100 Pipers Blended Malt Scotch, Aged 8 Years’. This is the first & only ‘100% Malt’ Scotch offering in the Standard Scotch category – a game-changing innovation by 100 Pipers. With a global footprint spanning 8 countries across Asia, Europe, Africa, Middle East & South America, 100 Pipers brings a truly international experience to the Indian consumers, with the widest range of unique Scotch variants. It is also the 2nd largest Scotch whisky in Asia. Commenting on the multiple achievements, Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India said, “100 Pipers continues to shape the Indian Scotch segment & set new records. This is driven by its increased popularity among the younger, aspirational consumers who are resonating strongly with the brand’s purpose-led initiatives due to their uniqueness, authenticity & credibility." As the largest whisky market in the world, India’s scotch segment continues to be highly aspirational for whisky consumers. With sales hitting bigger benchmarks across variants and a keen eye on leading innovation, Seagram's 100 Pipers is poised to continue as the dominant force in the market. (Excerpt from a release) The Undisputed leader in the premium whisky category, Seagram’s Blenders Pride has introduced a limited-edition pack in association with design maestro Manish Malhotra. The limited-edition pack echoes the impeccable craft of the designer and invites the consumers to ‘taste the stardom’ so one can celebrate the rich taste and unmatched craftsmanship of the pack, making a bold style statement that spells out ‘My Craft, My Pride’. The unique collectible reverberates with a contemporary design that is a true representation of the glamourous curations the designer is synonymous with. Inspired by the skillfully crafted smooth blend, the limited-edition pack is adorned with intricate patterns of his creations - with warm metallic accents and tones that build a sense of glamour, celebration, and lifestyle. Manish Malhotra’s time-honed legacy, built over 30 years, is highlighted on the pack, which embodies a seamless blend of fine craftsmanship that reflects his signature style. Blenders Pride is a premium whisky from the house of Seagram, with over 160 years of unmatched craftsmanship & expertise. It is an exquisite blend of fine-aged scotch malts from Dalmunach, Scotland, and Indian grain spirits. With a distinctive nose of malt, fruit, and spice, it’s a fine blend with a delicate aroma. The smooth blend of sweet taste and floral finish highlights the character of this elegant whisky making it a work of fine craftsmanship by our legendary master blenders.
This fine blend has been awarded globally for its supreme quality, bagging the Fifty Best Gold Award, Monde Selection Gold Award & London Spirits Competition award, all in one year (2020), and is winning hearts in India as well as select markets across the globe. Blenders Pride Rare Premium Whisky is available in 7 pack sizes, including 2L, 1L, 750ml, 375ml, 180ml, 90ml, and 60ml in India. (Excerpt from a release) Beam Suntory’s International Blended Whisky Oaksmith® Gold and Oaksmith® International win Gold and Double Gold at SIP Awards and both variants win bronze at the London Spirits Competition for its blends. India’s first International Blended Whisky ‘Oaksmith® Gold’ was recently recognized at two of world’s most prestigious awards in alco-beverages. At the 13th Annual SIP Awards at California, USA, ‘Oaksmith® Gold’ and its blend variant ‘Oaksmith® International’ won Gold and Double Gold - a testament to the Finest Japanese Craftsmanship and world-class quality the blend delivers given its commitment to purity, precision, and finest ingredients. As world’s only internationally recognized spirits competition that uses real consumers as judging panel, both blend variants competed with more than 1,000 brands from 49 countries, judged on the basis of aroma, taste, and finish. Additionally, at the 4th London Spirits Competition - ultimate seal of approval in spirits industry globally, both variants won bronze for quality, value & packaging. Judging panel consisted of spirits industry experts, with commercial buying responsibility, to ensure competition winners were exactly the types of spirits preferred by trade as well as end consumer. Neeraj Kumar, Managing Director, Beam Suntory India said, “It is a moment of great pride for our whisky brands ‘Oaksmith® Gold’ and ‘Oaksmith® International’ to receive a grand recognition at both SIP Awards and London Spirits Competition. Oaksmith® is a premium Indian whisky crafted by Suntory’s Chief Blender, Shinji Fukuyo, and combines the finest Scotch Malts and smoothest American Bourbons using unmatched Japanese blending techniques, bringing best of East and West. These awards are a true honor and testament to the very reason Oaksmith® was launched in India - to be a brand of choice for all, while continuing to offer a premium experience to our Indian consumers. We are extremely delighted that both blend variants ‘Oaksmith® Gold’ and ‘Oaksmith® International’ performed so well at these global award platforms.”
After a successful launch in India in December 2019, the brand is rapidly expanding its geographies across the country while it continues to receive immense appreciation from consumers. The brand has already sold 100,000 cases in a few months since its launch in India. (Excerpt from a release) Glen Scotia 25-Year-Old Single Malt Whisky has been recognised as the ‘Best in Show’ at this year’s San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC), with judges awarding the Scotch single malt whisky from Campbeltown, one of Scotland’s smallest Scotch Whisky regions, as the overall winner of the competition and therefore The Best Whisky in The World in 2021
Iain McAlister, Master Distiller, Glen Scotia Distillery said: “To receive such outstanding recognition and be awarded as ‘Best in Show’ at this prestigious competition is an honour, and a tremendous boost to the entire team here at Glen Scotia distillery. The Glen Scotia 25-Year-Old (70cl, 48.8% ABV) is a really outstanding whisky and has collected a number of prestigious awards over the years, but this has to be the absolute proudest moment for the distillery to date.” Campbeltown, although Scotland’s smallest whisky producing region today, was in its heyday during the Victorian era known as “The Whisky Capital of the World” and home to more than 30 distilleries. Although now only three remain and Glen Scotia makes their drams in a classic maritime Campbeltown style. (Excerpt from a release) Glen Scotia is a brand from the house of Loch Lomond and represented in the Indian sub-continent by Fermentras India, a company helmed by liquor veteran Rukn Luthra. An elated Rukn said "Glen Scotia unfortunately is currently not available in India; we are in the process of picking an importer for this exquisite brand and for a couple of other Scotch Whisky brands available from the Loch Lomond portfolio." |
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The Happy High is a Mumbai based beverage consulting co founded in 2014 with a vision to raise the bars of the wine and dine scene in the country. Read more.
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