 Between 16 and 18 May, VieVinum once more brought the international wine industry together at the Hofburg in Vienna. The 2026 edition of the fair allowed 500 Austrian wineries to present their wines to an international audience of industry experts. The Austrian Wine Marketing Board (Austrian Wine) invited more than 1,000 trade professionals from over 50 different countries to Vienna. These included the world’s best sommeliers, renowned international media and wine importers, as well as a number of leading figures from the global wine industry.
“The huge international turnout clearly shows that Austrian wines are in tune with current trends,” confirms CEO of Austrian Wine, Chris Yorke. “Austrian wines are known for their high quality and environmentally conscious production methods, not to mention their freshness and lightness, which is currently much sought-after among international wine consumers.” Austrian Wine welcomed an outstanding line-up of international guests to Vienna, including Raimonds Tomsons (reigning World Sommelier Champion of the Association de la Sommellerie Internationale (ASI)), Joris Gutierrez Garcia (ASI Best Sommelier of the Americas) and Reeze Choi (ASI Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific). These were joined by dozens of Masters of Wine and Master Sommeliers from around the world who enjoyed experiencing the diversity and quality of Austrian wines first-hand. VieVinum drives wine exportsOrganised by M.A.C. Hoffmann, VieVinum has been key to ensuring the long-term success of Austrian wine exports since the first edition of the fair in 1998. As Yorke explains, “Austrian wines already enjoy a very high market share in the domestic market, which leaves them little potential for growth. That’s why exports are so important for us. Every bottle sold on the international market takes the pressure off the domestic market and opens up additional perspectives for the Austrian wine industry. This, again, underlines the huge significance of VieVinum.” Terroir Talks: spotlight on Austria’s diverse originsBesides the fair itself, a first-class programme of side events provided visitors with a unique insight into the Austrian wine industry. One of the highlights was the large Austrian Wine flight tasting “Terroir Talks” that took place the day before the fair and was attended by more than 400 people. A total of 22 flights enabled participants to taste 120 internationally best-rated Austrian wines. These were split into themed categories such as “Grüner Veltliner: Shaped by Origin”, “Limestone & Slate: Shaping Structure” and “Styrian Sauvignon Reloaded”. The tastings were an impressive opportunity to explore just how much origin, soil and climate determine the character of Austrian wines. Shiva Chaurasiya, Best Sommelier of India, Sommelier at 67 Pall Mall, Singapore “I really want to thank the Austrian Wine Team for bringing me to VieVinum! It was an amazing experience and really changed my perspective on Austrian wines. With their fresh and crisp character, I think they are a perfect match for Indian and Chinese cuisine. I’m really looking forward to learn more about Austrian wines in the future – I can’t wait for VieVinum 2028!”
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 Amrut Distilleries, the pioneering force that placed Indian single malt whisky on the global stage, proudly announces the official international launch of Amrut Pravas at TFWA Singapore. Crafted exclusively for global travel retail,
Amrut Pravas: Crafted for the Global Traveller Handcrafted by Amrut’s COO and Master distiller, Ashok Chokalingam, using carefully selected casks, Pravas embodies a harmonious balance of tradition and innovation. Matured under India’s intense tropical climate, the whisky develops remarkable depth, richness, and complexity, resulting in an expression that is layered, elegant, and unmistakably Indian. “We are immensely proud to present Amrut Pravas on the global stage at TFWA Singapore. This expression is a celebration of India in every sense — diverse, vibrant, layered, and constantly evolving. Through Pravas, we wanted to create a whisky that reflects the spirit of travel and discovery while remaining deeply rooted in Indian craftsmanship and identity. As Indian single malts continue to gain global recognition, Pravas represents our ambition to showcase the richness of Indian whisky to travellers and enthusiasts across the world.” said Rakshit N. Jagdale Managing Director, Amrut Distilleries Tasting Notes Colour Deep golden honey with polished clarity. Nose A vibrant opening of lemon zest and bright citrus, grounded by delicate nuttiness. As the spirit breathes, it evolves into layers of soft dried fruits wrapped in dark chocolate, complemented by elegant notes of almond brittle and velvety vanilla cream. Palate Luxurious and richly textured, led by viscous honeyed syrup and creamy vanilla custard. The palate unfolds into almond-infused chocolate and concentrated dried fruit tones, balanced beautifully by sweet lemon tart and subtle spice. Velvety, structured, and exceptionally complex. Finish Long, elegant, and remarkably clean, leaving a sweet, lingering impression that invites another sip. (excerpt from a release) ,  TIGERFIRE Vodka, the French-crafted super-premium spirit co-founded by Sanjay Dutt and Paresh Ghelani, recently partnered with BMW Infinity Cars and BMW Navnit Motors to present an elevated interpretation of Mumbai nightlife through an exclusive multi-venue bar prowl across some of the city’s most coveted destinations.The evening unfolded across Bandra Born, Late Checkout, and AER Mumbai, with each venue offering its own distinct atmosphere while remaining connected through TIGERFIRE’s refined and immersive brand aesthetic.
At the core of the experience was the idea of movement and seamless luxury. The transfers between venues were transformed into curated moments of sophistication, reflecting a shared philosophy of performance, precision, and contemporary elegance. The partnership also highlighted responsible indulgence, with chauffeur-driven BMW vehicles ensuring guests experienced the night in both style and safety. A curated guest list of tastemakers, creators, and nightlife personalities documented the evening in real time, extending the experience beyond the venues themselves and into the cultural fabric of Mumbai’s luxury nightlife scene. The brand’s presence throughout the night remained subtle yet unmistakable. Signature TIGERFIRE vodka serves and thoughtfully integrated experiences complemented each venue organically, creating an atmosphere that felt polished, elevated, and authentic. Commenting on the collaboration, Badal Moradia, CEO of TIGERFIRE Vodka, said: “We want TIGERFIRE to be defined by the experiences enjoyed. We want to break the mold of what is to be expected. There are so many amazing restaurants in Mumbai that we knew we wanted to work with them to create a unique and unforgettable night. Our partnership with BMW helped bring it all together. The journey is just as important as the destination, and travelling in style through BMW’s line-up made the experience absolutely unforgettable.”  Grape Escape, Nashik's Very Own Wine Café, Is Now Open
Nashik, April 20, 2026 Nashik got its own wine café yesterday — and it's nothing like what you'd expect. Grape Escape opened its doors at Ananta Arcade, Pathardi Phata on Sunday evening to a room full of local influencers, lifestyle creators, winemakers, distributors, and hospitality folks. The energy in the room said it all — this is something Nashik has been quietly waiting for. The name says it best. Grape Escape — casual, fun, a little playful. The tagline, Wine Made Easy, is the whole philosophy in three words. Step inside the 24-seater space and you'll feel it immediately. Bright maroon, white and green. High chairs, pine wood furniture, exposed brick walls, and wine bottle lights overhead. A double-height ceiling that opens the space up, while somehow still feeling warm and cosy. Then the showstoppers. A chandelier made entirely from sparkling wine bottles and used barrel wood dominates the room. On the upper wall, a real grapevine — six feet tall, roots intact — glows against a backlit panel. Downstairs is all energy: Bollywood-wine meme walls, neon signs, and wine art. Upstairs shifts into something more thoughtful — a full Wine Folly-style course on the walls, a map of the world's wine capitals, and a masterclass studio where tastings, training sessions, and wine appreciation evenings will be held. Scattered across the walls are large, hand-drawn doodles explaining the winemaking process, a “New to Wine?” guide, a “Find Your Wine Personality” quiz, the 5 S’s of wine, and a section on wine and health. Education, but made interesting. The menu is designed the same way — no varietals, no confusing classifications. Wines are listed by sweetness, freshness, body, and occasion. A simple, wholesome Indian food menu sits alongside, because wine with local food is a conversation worth starting. Tasting flights of five wines are priced at just ₹200. Eight wines by the glass are available through an Enomatic machine, between ₹220 and ₹250. Takeaway is at MRP — made possible by Maharashtra's recently revised E2 wine bar licence, which now permits retail sale to promote wine. Drink-in per bottle carries a modest 20% markup on MRP. Glassware and serving temperature are taken seriously here, as they should be. There are wine cocktails on the menu too — including takeaway options in paper cups with a straw for when you're on the move. And at the entrance, something that might just be a first in India: a can vending machine for the quickest possible wine run. Founder’s Note – Ashwin Rodrigues, Founder & Winemaker “I left a career in finance in Sydney to learn wine in the Barossa Valley, came back to India in 2010, and spent the years since trying to craft wines that actually speak to the Indian palate. But production was always only half the story. The bigger goal was always to make wine mainstream — to pull it out of the fine-dining corner it had been sitting in and put it in front of everyday people, especially a younger audience, in an approachable and unpretentious way. Grape Escape is where that vision finally has a home. Come discover it at your own pace.” (Excerpt from a release)  Christian Zechmeister appointed Managing Director of the Austrian Wine Academy from 2027
After 36 years as head of the Weinakademie Österreich (Austrian Wine Academy), Josef “Pepi” Schuller will hand over the reins to Christian Zechmeister, who is currently Managing Director of Wein Burgenland, the Regional Wine Committee of Burgenland and the Authorized Signatory of Weintourismus Burgenland GmbH. The Austrian Wine Academy is a 50% subsidiary of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (Austrian Wine). Since the Academy was founded in 1991, more than half a million participants from around the world – from wine amateurs to Masters of Wine – have attended seminars at Europe’s largest wine school. “The Austrian Wine Academy is testimony to the pioneering role that Austria plays in wine training. Since its founding, Pepi Schuller has ensured a strong intake of international students in Austria, gaining a solid grounding in both Austrian and international wines. I would like to thank him sincerely for this achievement. Schuller has a strong track record, yet I am certain that Christian Zechmeister will successfully follow in his footsteps. I am very much looking forward to working closely with him,” says Chris Yorke, CEO of the Austrian Wine Marketing Board (Austrian Wine) and Chairman of the Board of the Wine Academy. A strong international focus from the outset The Austrian Wine Academy was founded as a subsidiary of Austrian Wine in 1991 with the aim of implementing a professional approach to training in the field of wine, in particular wine training for the hospitality industry, retail and consumers, as well as winegrowers. Josef Schuller, who became Austria’s first Master of Wine, has been Managing Director since the Academy was founded. He developed the Wine Academy to Austria’s national school of wine focusing on Austrian wines and hosting seminars throughout the country. Having worked and trained overseas himself, Schuller established the international focus of the Wine Academy right from the outset, not only in terms of the syllabus but also by forging links with international training institutions such as the Institute of Masters of Wine, the Wine and Spirit Education Trust (WSET), Geisenheim University in Germany and Zurich’s University of Applied Sciences in Wädenswil. “I am proud that the new Managing Director is a Wine Academy graduate and is therefore already familiar with the spirit of the Wine Academy,” Schuller says. “I will be pleased to stay involved on the Academy’s Board of Directors and support Christian in his new role.” Zechmeister came out on top When Josef Schuller announced his retirement as Managing Director at the end of 2026, an international search was launched to find the most suitable successor for this executive position. Christian Zechmeister, a native of Burgenland, was chosen as the successor from a large number of good applicants. Zechmeister has a strong foothold in the wine industry. His latest roles have included Managing Director of Wein Burgenland, the Regional Wine Committee of Burgenland and Authorized Signatory of Weintourismus Burgenland GmbH. The handover phase with Josef Schuller will start in August, with Zechmeister taking over the reins of the Academy completely from January 2027. Zechmeister is a Wine Academy graduate and lecturer who knows the Academy and its structure very well. “The Austrian Wine Academy has become one of the most well-known international wine institutions under the leadership of Josef Schuller. I am delighted about the professional challenge that lies ahead of me but am aware of the great responsibility that I will face. The goal will be to keep the successful Weinakademiker programme going while developing and putting in place new offers that are adapted to the current market situation. However, I firmly believe that I will achieve this, together with my future Wine Academy team and in association with the Austrian Wine Marketing Board. For me, it’s like coming back to my roots – after all, the Austrian Wine Academy was where I first started my career.” (excerpt from a release)  In a landmark moment for the nation’s hospitality and beverage sector, the Court of Master Sommeliers (CMS) Europe, in association with the Indian School of Beverages (ISB), has successfully concluded the first-ever Advanced Sommelier Certificate examination on Indian soil. This historic event marks the first time the Advanced level has been offered in India since the introductory and certified levels were established in the country a decade ago. The move signals a maturing market and a new era of global excellence for Indian wine professionals. The examination was proctored by a panel of world-renowned Master Sommeliers (MS), including Ronan Sayburn MS,Dimitri Mesnard MS, Gearoid Devaney MS, Edouard Oger MS, Yohann Jousselin MS, and Kamal Malik MS—India’s first-ever Master Sommelier. "This is an extremely difficult exam for which you need to prepare years in advance and maintain the right mindset," said Ronan Sayburn MS, CEO of the Court of Master Sommeliers Europe. "The students in India are held to the exact same rigorous standards as students in London, New York, or Hong Kong. Achieving this in India is a significant feat, especially considering that local professionals do not always have the same ease of access to a diverse range of international wines as their global counterparts." The Advanced Sommelier examination is globally recognized as one of the most grueling tests in the beverage industry. To earn the title, candidates must demonstrate mastery across three distinct pillars: Theory: An exhaustive examination of global wine laws, regions, and viticulture. Practical Service: A high-pressure test of floor techniques and salesmanship. Blind Tasting: Identifying grape varieties, regions, and vintages through sensory analysis alone. Candidates are required to achieve a minimum score of 60% in all three sections simultaneously to pass. Out of 17 dedicated professionals who undertook the rigorous course, five candidates emerged successful, joining an elite tier of sommeliers: Akash Kaul (Top Scorer ) Kevin Rodrigues Amber Deshmukh Shiva Chaurasiya Anushka Pandkar (Distinguished as India’s first and only Woman Advanced Sommelier and in this cohort the only female attendee). For the Indian School of Beverages, the collaboration between CMS and ISB represents a holistic approach to professional development in the region, ensuring Indian professionals have access to the world's most respected credentials. "ISB is honored to be a pioneer in leading the beverage education vertical in India," said Viraj Sawant, CMS Advanced and Founder of the Indian School of Beverages. "Through our strategic collaborations with the Court of Master Sommeliers and our comprehensive WSET offerings, we have built an ecosystem that covers every facet of beverage education. We aren't just teaching; we are shaping the future of the Indian industry by providing a world-class platform for excellence. (excerpt from a release)   Vilafranca del Penedès – 23rd September 2025.
Under the title El Territorio del Cava (The Territory of Cava), the second edition of Cava Meeting will take place in Penedès on 10 and 11 November. Organised by DO CAVA, this major international forum will bring together over 90 leading wine professionals from around the world. Attendees will enjoy a unique programme of tastings and discussions, featuring content of exceptional quality and relevance. “In the first edition, held in Barcelona and in several cellars across Penedès and Alella, we laid the groundwork for redefining perceptions of Cava,” said Javier Pagés, president of DO CAVA. “This year, we aim to build on that momentum, showcasing excellence and reinforcing the international profile of one of the world’s most exported quality sparkling wines.” Pagés also emphasised the importance of “consolidating the sector’s most qualitative segments, clearly differentiating them from younger, higher-volume Cavas.” The event is coordinated by communications and PR agency Mahala Wines, with support from an Advisory Expert Committee formed by five renowned professionals with deep knowledge of the Cava region: Sarah Jane Evans MW, contributing editor at Decanter World Wine Awards and president of the Gran Orden de los Caballeros del Vino; Ferran Centelles, drinks director at elBulliFoundation and Spanish correspondent for Jancis Robinson; Pedro Ballesteros MW, Spain’s first Master of Wine and a leading authority on the world’s great wine regions; María Naranjo, agri-food director at ICEX; and Cava expert, journalist and sommelier Ramon Francàs. Panels will feature prominent Cava producers, representatives from prestigious international estates, and experts from leading universities. A central theme will be long ageing in traditional method sparkling wines, with global specialists presenting the latest research and production challenges. Confirmed speakers include Charles Zuker, professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biophysics and Neuroscience at Columbia University; Gabriel Lepousez, researcher at the Pasteur Institute; and Cristina Mercuri, one of Italy’s leading wine educators and founder of the Mercuri Wine Club and Pere Pons Mercadé, professor at Rovira i Virgili University and oenologist at Cava Miquel Pons. The tastings programme promises to be equally ambitious. Essi Avellan MW, alongside Ramon Francàs and an international sommelier, will lead an unprecedented tasting of Cavas aged over 100 months on the lees. Ferran Centelles will also host a major session connecting DO Cava with DO Jerez, exploring the role of autolysis and oxidation in both wines, and testing whether the best pairing for ham is Cava or Sherry. He will be joined by Robert Tetas, sommelier at Sobretablas in Seville, and Enrique and Albert Tomás, founder and CEO respectively of Enrique Tomás ham shops. Pedro Ballesteros MW will moderate a panel exploring whether DO Cava is merely a business or also a responsibility, addressing its future outlook, its duty to the territory, and the need for collective action to safeguard the vineyards of Penedès. Sarah Jane Evans MW and Roberto Durán MS, head sommelier at 67 Pall Mall Singapore, will lead a tasting of great Cavas born in the vineyard, focusing on the terroir. Another high-level debate, moderated by María Naranjo of ICEX, will bring together Xavier Ybargüengoitia, former Chief Executive Officer of Estates & Wines, The Moët-Hennessy Wine Division; vice-president of UES Anna Vicens, head of Wine Palace stores; Pierre Mansour, director of Wine at The Wine Society; and Laura Williamson MS-CWE, owner of Unlock Your Palate Inc. and partner at RingIT Inc, and Antonio Menéndez, Chief Executive Officer The Library. The session will address the current challenges and future opportunities for the Cava business. Beyond tastings and debates, the second Cava Meeting will also celebrate Cava’s gastronomic versatility. A gala dinner, featuring renowned chefs, will pair exceptional Cavas with international cuisines, while another session will explore the growing role of Cava in mixology. A major showroom will showcase more than 100 Cavas de Guarda Superior from over 50 DO CAVA wineries. Among them will be Cavas de Elaborador Integral, a distinctive category recognising producers who oversee the entire winemaking process on their own estates —from pressing to vinifying 100% of their grapes. (Excerpt from a release)  Mumbai, 31st January 2025 – The Wine Growers Association of India (WineGAI), the apex national body representing Indian wine producers, is set to make history with its first large-scale consumer wine festival in India – The Bandra WineOut 2025. This premier event will bring together India’s leading wineries, gourmet food experiences, live music, and interactive activities, all in the heart of Mumbai’s vibrant Bandra district. Wine lovers, enthusiasts, and curious consumers will have an unparalleled opportunity to explore the finest wines from across the country in a lively and engaging atmosphere. The Bandra WineOut 2025 is designed to demystify wines, elevate the brand image of Indian wineries, and make wine culture fun, trendy, and accessible to a younger and fresh audience. A Powerhouse Lineup of Indian Wineries Attendees will get to sample and discover an incredible range of wines from India’s most prestigious wineries, including:
1. Sula Vineyards 2. Fratelli Wines 3. Grover Zampa Vineyards 4. Good Drop Wine Cellars 5. Reveilo Wines 6. Big Banyan Wines 7. Moonshine Meadery 8. Uniwine Vintners 9. Wildcraft Beverages 10. Sam Agri … and more! The Bandra WineOut 2025 isn’t just about sipping and swirling – it’s an immersive experience that blends fine wine with gourmet indulgence, music, and engaging activities: ● Gourmet Food Stalls – A variety of curated food stalls offering new and trending cuisines that pair perfectly with different wines ● Flea Market Stalls – A vibrant marketplace featuring artisanal products, handcrafted goods, and unique finds to enhance the festival experience. ● Live Cooking with Wine Demos – Top chefs will craft delectable dishes using wine as a key ingredient, offering visitors a unique food and wine pairing experience. ● Grape Stomping Fun – A classic tradition that brings wine lovers together for a hands-on, foot-stomping good time! ● Masterclasses by Wine Experts – Exclusive sessions to deepen your wine knowledge, from tasting techniques to food pairings. ● Live Music & Entertainment – A festival atmosphere with top artists and DJs setting the vibe. ● Interactive Wine Games & Trivia – Fun and engaging activities to educate and entertain. “This is the first event of its kind, and we’re thrilled to create a space where wine is approachable, exciting, and celebrated,” said Ashwin Rodrigues, Secretary of WineGAI. “Our goal is to reshape the perception of Indian wines and make them the drink of choice for the modern Indian consumer.” Event Details: 📍 Location: Dmonte Park Recreational Centre, Bandra (West), Mumbai 📅 Date: February 15 & 16, 2025 🎟 Tickets Available On: Insider.in, District.in (Excerpt from a release)  India witnessed a historic milestone as the Sommeliers Association of India (SAI) successfully hosted the grand finale of the inaugural edition of the 2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India competition at the iconic The LaLiT, Mumbai. A Triumph of Talent: Jai Singh Emerged Victorious with a Prestigious Jury Panel of Global Wine Icons. This landmark event, the first of its kind in the country, marked a significant step forward in India's growing recognition on the global wine map.
Amrita Singh, Co-Founder and President of the Sommeliers Association of India shared her excitement, "The successful execution of this inaugural event marks a defining moment for the Indian sommelier community. All participants should be proud of their outstanding performances, and we are excited to see how they will continue to contribute to the growth of India’s hospitality culture. We are truly honoured to have had global wine celebrities such as Saiko Tamura-Soga, ASI Vice-President for Asia & Pacific and Nina Basset FIH, Co-Founding Trustee, Gérard Basset Foundation as part of the judging panel, their expertise ensured the competition was both fair and rigorous in line with the International standards. Our deepest gratitude to our Hospitality Partner, The LaLiT, Mumbai and all other partners and sponsors who made this benchmark event possible.” The competition serving as the national qualifier for top international platforms, drew talented sommeliers from across India and Indian Sommeliers working in Dubai, Maldives, Singapore, Italy, New Zealand and International cruise ships eager to showcase their skills. After intense quarter-finals and semi-finals, the grand finale saw Jai Singh crowned as the “2025 SAI Best Sommelier of India”, with Pankaj Singh and Amber Deshmukh securing second and third places. The top three winners will now embark on an exciting journey—attending the prestigious ASI Education Boot Camp in Singapore this July. Jai Singh will further make history by representing India for the first time ever at the 2025 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of Asia & Pacific in Malaysia and the 2026 ASI Contest Best Sommelier of the World in Portugal. Mattia Antonio Cianca, Co-Founder and Vice-President of the Sommeliers Association of India said, “This marks a great beginning for Indian sommellerie, showcasing immense potential and promising talent. The level of skill and passion displayed during the competition, gives us confidence that Indian sommeliers are ready to shine on the world stage.” Saiko Tamura-Soga, ASI Vice President for Asia & Pacific said, “The inaugural of Best Sommelier of India competition, organized by SAI to uphold world-class standards, has concluded with resounding success. I am deeply impressed by the exceptional talent, dedication, and humility demonstrated by the Indian sommeliers who participated. It is clear that they are on the cusp of achieving outstanding success on the international stage, particularly in competitions organized by the International Sommelier Association (ASI). Although SAI is a young association, having been a member of ASI for less than a year, the sense of unity and dynamic energy it has fostered is a testament to the tireless commitment and visionary leadership of Amrita Singh. I am confident that, under her guidance, SAI and its sommeliers will continue to thrive, furthering the development and recognition of the sommelier profession in India and making a lasting impact on the global sommelier community.” (Excerpt from a release) Business France India, under the tutelage of the Embassy of France in India, will welcome a French delegation of 17 wine and spirits producers for the 8th edition of the Tastin’ France event in India. These producers will showcase their products on November 6th at the Embassy of France in Delhi, followed by a tasting in Mumbai at ProWine on November 8th and 9th in Mumbai. This year's Tastin'France India brings together renowned estates from all over France, offering Indian importers, distributors, and connoisseurs an exclusive opportunity to discover exceptional French beverages, fostering valuable business opportunities. Attendees will experience a curated selection of wines and spirits, highlighting the rich diversity and expertise of France’s renowned vineyards and distilleries. "The partnership between India and France in the wine and spirits sector continues to strengthen, driven by a mutual appreciation for quality and craftsmanship. Tastin’France serves as an important platform to deepen these ties, enabling Indian importers to discover the exceptional diversity of French products while promoting sustainable practices that resonate with today’s consumers. Together, we are building a vibrant trade relationship that celebrates our shared values and enriches both markets." — Estelle David, Trade Commissioner of France, and Head of Business France in India. Highlights of the 8th edition of Tastin’France India From the emblematic regions of Burgundy and the sparkling vineyards of Champagne to the warm hillsides of Languedoc, and from the unmissable vineyards of Bordeaux to the savoury banks of the Rhône valley, the 17 winegrowers and spirit distillers will take attendees on a sensory tour of France. The delegation encompasses a diverse range of estates, from cooperatives representing hundreds of winegrowers to exclusive private estates and traders. Attendees can look forward to a comprehensive selection featuring Vins de France, IGP (Indication Géographique Protégée), and AOP (Appellation d'Origine Protégée). This wide array allows for the exploration of various wine styles, including red, white, and rosé wines, as well as Champagne and spirits like Cognac, Whisky, Vodka, each reflecting the distinct terroir and traditions of its region. Amongst the participating companies, several brands are committed to environmental sustainability, with one estate on the verge of organic certification and another using artisanal methods to care for its soils and vines without the use of chemicals. BWINE, CHÂTEAU LA FRANCE & CHÂTEAU DE SEGUIN | COLLECTION TRAMIER | TUTIAC | LGI WINES | LES VIGNERONS REUNIS DE MONSEGUR | ALMA CERSIUS | VIGNOBLES VELLAS | DOMAINE ANDRE BRUNEL | LA VINTAGE COMPANY | CHAMPAGNE G.H MARTEL & CO | FRENCHIES WINES | LES PRODUCTEURS REUNIS | DISTILLERIE DES MOISANS | FIWINE BORDEAUX / FINESTWINE.COM | CHÂTEAU CHARMAIL | CHATEAU LA FLEUR DE BOÜARD | SLAUR SARDET | BOYER - DE BAR Key Statistics on Wine Production and Consumption
France In 2023, France reclaimed its title as the world's largest wine producer, overtaking Italy, and Spain with an impressive volume of hectolitres. More than half of all French wines carry the prestigious Appellation d'Origine Protégée (AOP), while 40% are classified as Indication Géographique Protégée (IGP), highlighting the commitment to quality and regional identity. Remarkably, although vineyards account for only 3% of France's agricultural land, viticulture remains the leading agricultural sector in terms of value, underlining its economic importance. India The Indian wine market is experiencing a remarkable transformation, reaching a value of US$ 195 million in 2023. Projections indicate that this dynamic market will soar to US$ 803 million by 2032, with an impressive compound annual growth rate of 17% anticipated between 2024 and 2032. Increasing demand for wine, particularly from younger consumers who enjoy socializing at restaurants and bars, is driving this growth. Notably, while Australia leads the way in terms of volume, France remains the top exporter in terms of value, with its wines revered for their premium quality, especially in the luxury and fine wine segments. The trend is clear: wine consumption per capita in India grew by 9% between 2022 and 2023, reinforcing the excitement around this evolving market. Tastin’ France reinforcing Indo-French business ties. Tastin’ France is a unique opportunity for wine and spirits enthusiasts, and industry professionals, to immerse themselves in the rich flavours and traditions of French viticulture and distillery. This event highlights the exceptional quality of French wines and spirits while reinforcing the strong ties between India and France. With a growing market for wine in India, the event serves as a platform for importers and distributors to explore valuable business opportunities that can benefit both countries, fostering collaboration and innovation in the wine and spirit sector. Business France invites Importers and distributors in India to join this journey of discovery and appreciation. (Excerpt from a release)  New Delhi, October 09, 2024: 30BestBarsIndia, the country’s most prestigious bar ranking platform, has unveiled the long list of the Top 100 bars for its 5th edition. The list is based on a special pan-India jury poll, made up of bar enthusiasts, industry professionals and drinks connoisseurs. This year’s voting list for the ‘Best Bars’ category also included more than 150 self-nominations from bars across the country on the 30BestBarsIndia website.
AT A GLANCE:
The 2024 long list features bars ranging from chic urban lounges and hotel bars to artisanal cocktail rooms and speakeasies, with representation from cities large and small. With almost half of the Top 100 comprising new entrants, these bars have set benchmarks in mixology, service, design, ambience, and sustainability. A larger national jury of more than 250 members is currently voting to determine the final ranking of the 30 Best Bars of India for 2024, based on the long list. The rankings will be unveiled at an awards ceremony at the Taj Cidade de Goa Horizon, Panaji, on January 13, 2025. Vikram Achanta, Co-Founder of 30BestBarsIndia, said, "In the past year, we've seen a significant emphasis on concept and storytelling, which has now become paramount. Bars are no longer just spaces to drink – they are immersive experiences. The substantial number of nominations we received this year is a testament to our mission at 30BestBarsIndia – to educate and elevate the visibility of bars across the country. We're also witnessing a continued resurgence of hotel bars, which are setting new benchmarks for creativity and hospitality." Radhakrishnan Nair, Co-Founder of 30BestBarsIndia, said, “The record entry of 48 new bars in the Long List is a testament to the constantly improving standards of bars across the country, including in non-metro towns. At the same time, the fact that so many of our regulars have dropped out of the Long List this year is a signal to bars that they have to be constantly innovating to stay in the reckoning and be counted among the best in the country.” The Top 100 bars in India, listed alphabetically, are: (New entries are marked with an asterisk) ● 7 Rivers Brewing Co., Taj MG Road (Bangalore) ● AER Lounge, Four Seasons (Mumbai)* ● Aidu (Hyderabad)* ● AMPM (Kolkata)* ● Americano (Mumbai) ● Bandra Born (Mumbai)* ● Bar 259, JW Marriott (Kolkata)* ● Bar Palladio, Narain Niwas Palace (Jaipur) ● Beno (Goa)* ● Bob's Bar, Indiranagar (Bangalore) ● Byg Brewski Brewing Company, Hennur (Bangalore) ● Cirqa 1960 (Mumbai)* ● Cobbler & Crew (Pune) ● Cock & Bull (Hyderabad) ● Cocktails & Dreams (Gurgaon) ● Comorin (Gurgaon) ● Copitas, Four Seasons Hotel (Bangalore) ● Ekaa (Mumbai) ● Elephant & Co. (Goa) ● Elephant & Co., Kalyaninagar (Pune) ● Fig & Maple (New Delhi)* ● For The Record - Vinyl Bar (Goa) ● Forefathers (Hyderabad)* ● Grumps (Goa)* ● Hideaway (Goa) ● Hodd's Bar, Hyatt, Gachibowli (Hyderabad)* ● HOME (New Delhi) ● Hoots' (New Delhi) ● Hosa (Goa) ● Izumi (Mumbai) ● Jamming Goat 1.0 (Goa) ● Jamming Goat 3.0, JP Nagar (Bangalore) ● Joseph Bar (Goa) ● Khi Khi, (New Delhi)* ● Klap (New Delhi) ● KOKO (Bangalore)* ● KooX - Rooftop Asian Grill, Novotel Chennai Chamiers Road (Chennai) ● Koyo Koyo, Hyatt Centric (Chandigarh)* ● Lair (New Delhi) ● Little Bit Sober (Kolkata)* ● LMNOQ Skybar (Kolkata)* ● Loya, Taj Palace (New Delhi) ● Madam G (Kolkata)* ● Malaka Spice (Pune) ● Masque (Mumbai) ● Mehico (Kolkata)* ● Mezcalita, Churchgate (Mumbai) ● Mia's (New Delhi)* ● Miguel’s (Goa) ● Muro (Bangalore)* ● Native Cocktail Room (Jaipur) ● Noho (Hyderabad)* ● O Pedro (Mumbai) ● Olive Bar & Kitchen, Qutub (New Delhi)* ● Olterra (Kolkata) ● Pablo's (Goa) ● Pandan Club (Chennai)* ● Papa's (Mumbai)* ● PCO (Mumbai) ● PCO (New Delhi) ● Perch Wine & Coffee Bar, Vasant Vihar (New Delhi) ● Petisco (Goa)* ● Piano Man Jazz Club, El Deco Centre (New Delhi)* ● Radio Room (Chennai)* ● Red (New Delhi)* ● Rick's, Taj Mahal (New Delhi) ● Room One (Goa)* ● Roxie (Bangalore) ● RÜ (Hyderabad)* ● Sanctuary Bar & Kitchen (Hyderabad) ● SAZ American Brasserie, Vasant Kunj (New Delhi) ● SAZ On The Beach (Goa)* ● Shad Skye (Shillong)* ● Sidecar (New Delhi) ● Slink & Bardot (Mumbai) ● Slow Tide (Goa) ● Soka (Bangalore)* ● Sorano (Kolkata) ● Soy Como Soy (Pune) ● Spirit Forward (Bangalore)* ● SURA - Cocktails & Cuisine (Jaipur)* ● Terra Maaya (Guwahati) ● The Bar, The Oberoi Grand (Kolkata) ● The Barfly (Goa)* ● The Blue Bar, Taj Palace (New Delhi) ● The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai) ● The Brass Room, ITC Royal Bengal (Kolkata)* ● The Cheroot Malt & Cigar Lounge, ITC Grand Chola (Chennai)* ● The Evening Club (Shillong) ● The Grid (Kolkata) ● The Johri & Sons, The Johri (Jaipur)* ● The Library Bar, The Leela Palace Udaipur (Udaipur)* ● The Library Bar, The Leela Palace Bengaluru (Bangalore) ● The Library Bar, The Leela Palace (New Delhi) ● The Living Room (Chennai)* ● The Maroon Room (Guwahati)* ● The Piano Bar and Cigar Lounge, The Oberoi (Gurgaon)* ● The Reservoire (Bangalore)* ● The Second House (Goa)* ● TOIT (Pune) ● Tresind (Mumbai)* ● Waikiki (Mumbai)* ● Whisky Samba (Gurgaon) ● Whisky Samba (Hyderabad)* ● Windmills, Whitefield (Bangalore) ● Yauatcha (Kolkata) ● ZLB 23, The Leela Palace (Bangalore) (Excerpt from a release)  Delhi's Sidecar walked away with top honors once again at the 4th edition of 30BestBarsIndia, the country’s most prestigious bar ranking and awards platform, at a ceremony held at Taj Cidade de Goa Heritage last night. Besides being ranked India’s #1 Bar for the second year in a row, it also walked away with the Best Independent Bar Award and the Best Cocktail Menu Award - for Arq, a menu inspired by quintessential Indian ingredients. Pune’s Cobbler & Crew (#2) took home 4 awards this year – Highest New Entry, Best Bar Team, Best Bartender (Aashi Bhatnagar), and Best Work in Sustainability (along with Pune’s Soy Como Soy). Notably, Pune also captured the People’s Choice Awards – with Elephant & Co. Kalyani Nagar (#47) deemed People’s Choice Best Bar and TOIT awarded People’s Choice Best Microbrewery or Taproom. Bangalore bars stepped into the spotlight as well, with ZLB 23 – The Leela Palace (#6) bagging Best Bar Design. It was also awarded the Best Hotel Bar alongside Copitas – Four Seasons Hotel (#4). The city’s favourite watering hole, TOIT (#29), was the winner of the Best Microbrewery or Taproom Award. PCO New Delhi was this year’s Highest Climber – jumping eight spots to #12. The Best Restaurant Bar went to Gurgaon’s Comorin (#11). The Best Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Menu was awarded to Chennai’s Pandan Club, for its innovative storytelling and presentation of Zero ABV drinks. Additionally, AD Singh, Founder & MD, Olive Group of Restaurants was honoured with the Industry Icon Award while Polo Lounge, Hyatt Regency Delhi took home the Timeless Bar Award. Vikram Achanta, Co-Founder, 30BestBarsIndia says, “The anticipation for the awards increases year-on-year, and this year, we saw noticeable jumps in the list. Eleven new bars made their way into the top 30 list, showcasing the pace at which Indian bars are innovating. As standards continue to increase in the industry and global eyes watch India’s beverage landscape evolve, bars need to continue pushing boundaries across cocktail programs, adopting new techniques, and enhancing bar talent to stay relevant.” Radhakrishna Nair, Co-Founder, 30BestBarsIndia added, “Many rankings this year were closely fought affairs, especially among the top bars in the country, with very few votes separating them. Every year, we re-evaluate our award categories to stay relevant with what’s taking place in the bar landscape, both nationally and internationally. It is in keeping with this strategy that we introduced the Best Non-Alcoholic Cocktail Menu award this year to recognize bars that are making strides with zero-ABV drinks.” Appended is the Top 30 List:
The Vault Festival 2024, Asia’s Premier Craft Spirits Festival is Back at Jio World Garden, Mumbai1/9/2024  The Vault Festival, Asia’s premier craft spirits festival is back with its highly anticipated third edition to take place at the Jio World Garden on February 17 and 18, 2024. The event is an unparalleled experience for those with a curious inclination to the world of craft spirits. Limited early bird tickets are live and start from INR 999 till INR 2999 for the platinum passes, all inclusive of taxes.
Akin to the previous two editions, the festival presents four unique experiential pillars with an added edge of Certification Trails, for visitors to hone their skills in spirits, mixology, and hosting from the best minds in the game. Pre-book certifications will be available at INR 599 (All Incl.) for a limited time. With the core vision of creating a conversation-forward platform for connoisseurs, new-age experimentalists, and driven enthusiasts of the spirit community, it invites visitors to come forward and transform their understanding of spirits and mixology. The 2024 edition will have specific pavilions dedicated to Tequila, Rum, Whisky, Gin, Saké, and more with over 50 boutique international labels and Indian craft creations. Speaking on the occasion, Keshav Prakash, Founder of The Vault and Curator of The Vault Festival, said, “We are thrilled to bring back The Vault Festival for its third edition, promising an unparalleled experience as Asia’s premier craft spirits event for aficionados and enthusiasts alike. This year, we've curated a lineup that celebrates the ‘slow-drink’ movement of craft spirits and provides an immersive behind-the-scenes journey into their production. To give our audience a truly holistic experience, we’re all set to launch our Certification Trails for our visitors to take away authentic learnings from the festival. By providing an open forum between luxury craft spirit makers and the burgeoning spirit community, we want to bring forth the culture of spirit appreciation, rather than promoting casual consumption.” The festival is designed keeping in mind four distinct experience pillars to provide an immersive deep dive into the world of craft spirits: - Taste – A space to experience global boutique spirits and Indian craft distillations directly from their makers. Nose-sip-savour, with other fine spirits enthusiasts and connoisseurs. - Discover – Think multi-sensory experiential venues, where one can explore what goes behind the scenes in crafting a spirit, with small, artisanal bites to pair. - Listen – Engage with stories, conversations, and masterclasses with the who’s who of the Food & Beverage space. - Indulge – A spread of cutting-edge cuisines and new-age bar inventions by gourmet chefs and leading mixologists celebrating exquisite food and drink pairings. A journey through tastings and immersive masterclasses, the festival is a cultural phenomenon spread over one weekend of exclusive learning with spirit-focused arenas, bold cocktails, exquisite food pairings and dialogues with the best minds of the Food & Beverage industry. Visit - https://thevaultfest.com/. for more details. (Excerpt from the release)  Indian alco-bev start-up, Incredible Spirits Private Limited (“ISPL”), has launched India’s first premium spirits-based Ready-to-Drink (RTD) shots, under the brand name SWIGGER. The premium crafted product, blended with natural and organic flavours, has been unveiled in two Gin and two Vodka variants, to begin with.
The Gin-based RTD shots have been distilled with Elderflower & Berries and Pink Grapefruit & Lime while the Vodka-based offerings have been distilled with Mandarin and Lime, Lychee and Cinnamon. The flavourful SWIGGER shots have been introduced in 60 ml double shot glasses with a pull rip cap closure, ensuring a safe and unadulterated, convenient experience for consumers. Speaking on the launch, Mr Arun Raina, Co-founder, Incredible Spirits Private Limited, said, “We are excited to launch the country’s first spirits-based Ready-to-Drink premium shots brand. The RTD shots category is a completely new segment in India and, therefore, presents an enormous opportunity.” Recently, leading Indian-Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) manufacturer Tilaknagar Industries, the country’s largest manufacturer of premium brandy, invested Rs 1 crore for a 19.50 per cent equity stake in Incredible Spirits Private Limited. With the tagline ‘Inspire fun’, the premium RTD shots brand SWIGGER has been introduced in the beach capital of India, Goa, in the first phase of its launch. This will be followed by more markets across the country. This launch will be followed by the introduction of more premium shot variants with Cognac, Bourbon Whiskey, Dark Rum & Tequila. According to the IWSR May 2022 report, the RTD market in India is a 3 million cases category in 2021, and is expected to grow at more than 9 per cent annually over the next 5 years, reaching 4.5 million cases in 2026. (Excerpt from a release)  India’s largest and most influential wine competition India Wine Awards 2023 presented by Sonal Holland Wine Academy in association with ProWine Mumbai announced 219 winning wines across Best in Show, Gold and Silver categories at a glittering India Wine Awards Winners Night held on Friday, 24th November 2023 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai For its fifth edition, India Wine Awards hosted the country’s largest-ever blind-tasting competition of domestic and international wines available in India, receiving a record-breaking 460 nominations. Sake was inducted as a new category as well to expand the scope of the awards and acknowledge the increasing popularity of the beverage among Indian consumers. The nominated labels were judged by a panel of 20 jury members featuring experts from the country led by Sonal C Holland MW -Founder and Chairperson of India Wine Awards. The India Wine Awards 2023 Winners’ Night brought together 600 eminent members including luminaries of the wine and spirits industry, hospitality leaders, global trade councils and winemakers from across the world. The guests came together to celebrate the best in-market wines in India and to applaud the spirit of resilience and innovation that has helped the Indian wine industry grow at a steady and assured pace year after year. As part of the fifth edition of India Wine Awards - Personality awards, the night celebrated Rajeev Samant -Founder and CEO of Sula Vineyards for his contribution as a visionary excellence entrepreneur whose pioneering work has helped lay the very foundation of the wine industry in India awarding him with the Indian Wine Industry Leader and Champion Award which was felicitated by Sonal C Holland MW and Wolfram N. Diener, President & CEO of Messe Düsseldorf GmbH. Speaking on the fifth successful edition of the awards, Sonal C Holland MW, Founder and Chairperson of India Wine Awards, said, “With every passing year, we are growing bigger, better and even bolder and that only reflects where the Indian wine industry firmly stands today. This year, we are raising a Toast To Excellence in recognition of the top quality of wines nominated in the competition and those available in the country, at large. This is testament to the phenomenal evolution of India as the most coveted, fast-emerging wine markets in the world. With the ongoing success of our wine market, the narrative of ‘Incredible India’ is surely changing on the world stage to ‘Credible India’ that poses itself as a robust and reliable markets, with India Wine Awards offering an unparalleled opportunity for winning brands to reinforce their image and positioning in the minds of the curious and enthusiastic Indian consumer.” Each wine was judged on a 100-point score sheet in a blind tasting format by the esteemed panel of 20 jury members who were encouraged to put on their consumer hats to ensure that the winners reflected the taste and preferences of Indian customers. 79 wines won in the Gold category, securing more than 90 points, while 110 wines won in the Silver category, securing 85-89 points. The 30 Best in Show winners were the highest-scoring wines in the competition. This year, the Best in Show award had multiple categories, with five high-scoring wines nominated in each category. The wine with the highest score among these nominees was then named as Best In Show for the said category. The jury had a hard time selecting a single winner for some categories, leading to a two-way or a three-way tie. Building on previous editions, , this year the India Wine Awards launched a new segment IndiaWineAwards’ 50 Best Places To Drink 2023 - a digital list of the best restaurants and bars in the country that create excellent drinking experiences for consumers. The list was curated on the basis of public and jury members' votes. This annual list not only pays homage to India’s finest drinking spots but also recognises the hard work, professionalism and congeniality of all the employees who make these establishments memorable. Mumbai-based Americano emerged as a favourite ranking no.1, followed by The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai), Hideaway (Goa), Masque (Mumbai), Comorin (Gurugram), Slink & Bardot (Mumbai), Sidecar (New Delhi), Sula Tasting Room (Nashik), Copitas (Bengaluru) and Slow Tide (Goa) making the Top 10 Best Places to Drink across the country. (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)  Fine wines importer Wine Park hosted multiple masterclasses and grand tastings of prestigious Tuscan wine estate Brancaia across Mumbai, Delhi and Bengaluru in early October. The landmark Brancaia roadshow was hosted by Wine Park Founder and Head, Vishal Kadakia and Lucia Borri, Export Director and Brand Ambassador for Brancaia. The Brancaia wines showcased included the iconic Brancaia, TRE 2020, Brancaia, Chianti Classico 2021, Brancaia, IL BLU, "Super Tuscan" 2018 and Brancaia, ILATRAIA; Super Tuscan ; 2019. Brancaia is a family owned winery based in Tuscany with a history of 43 years and is one of the region’s leading organic wine makers. Brancaia’s wines have been part of Wine Park’s selection for over 15 years.
Brancaia’s three city roadshow included grand tastings at The St Regis and Grand Hyatt in Mumbai while in Bengaluru, the venues were JW Marriott and fine dining standalone restaurant Lupa. The Delhi venues included The Lalit and Captain’s Cellar at Taj Mahal hotel. Commenting on the Brancaia Roadshow which he co-hosted, Vishal Kadakia said, “Brancaia has been an integral part of Wine Park’s import selection for over 15 years now and it is incredible how the estate’s popularity has grown in India and come to be closely associated with Wine Park. Brancaia’s wines are a fine representation of Tuscan wines and over the years we have showcased not just the great red wines but white and rose wines as well.” Borri believed India contains great potential as an market for imported wines. “The Indian market presents great opportunities and there is still so much space to grow. I just got the feeling that wine is no longer part of a status to reach but something to enjoy and share. Ever since we entered the market in 2008 with Wine Park, we have seen this interest grow and with many more people asking to visit our winery when traveling in Italy. Thanks to Vishal and Ashu for their partnership in all these years and we look forward to many more years ahead,” Borri said. (Excerpt from a release)  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)  New Delhi, January 18, 2023: South Delhi bar, Sidecar, reclaimed its position as the country's best bar in the 2022 ranking of 30BestBarsIndia, released last night at an awards show at the Le Meridien Gurgaon. Sidecar, which won the top spot in the inaugural 2019 ranking, was pushed to the no. 2 position last year by Bar Tesouro from Goa. The top 10 positions in the ranking have seen some significant movement and new entrants. Bangalore bar Copitas at the Four Seasons moves up to no. 2, followed by new entrants Home (New Delhi), Lair (New Delhi), The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai), and Comorin (Gurgaon). Four new entrants, Americano (Mumbai), Slink & Bardot (Mumbai), Hideaway (Goa), and The Living Room by Masque (Mumbai), round up the Top 10. Sidecar also took home the winner's trophy in two other categories, Best Independent Bar and Best Bar Menu. Copitas won the Best Hotel Bar Award, while Comorin Gurgaon was declared the Best Restaurant Bar, and Brewdog, Gurgaon, won the Best Microbrewery/Taproom Award. Santanu Chanda of Home, New Delhi, won the coveted Best Bartender award, while Home also won the Best Bar Team Award. The Bombay Canteen was declared the Best Designed Bar.  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)  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) 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)  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.  Tulleeho and Man’s World Magazine revealed the much-awaited ranking of the top Indian bars for 2021, at a well-attended awards show in Gurgaon’s Le Méridien on 23rd March, 2022. 30 Best Bars India is the country’s first and only independent nationwide annual ranking of bars, and a platform that celebrates the best of Indian bar talent. Goa’s Bar Tesouro emerged as India’s best bar, Sidecar (New Delhi), Copitas - Four Seasons Hotel (Bangalore), The Bombay Canteen (Mumbai), Lair (New Delhi), Hoots’ - Vasant Vihar (New Delhi), Comorin (Gurgaon), PCO (New Delhi), AER - Four Seasons Hotel (Mumbai), Raahi – Neo Kitchen & Bar (Bangalore) make up the list of the top 10 bars of 2021. Delhi, Mumbai & Bangalore topped the list this year with six bars each in the Top 30 list, followed by Goa with five bars; Kolkata with four bars; Gurgaon with three bars while Pune & Hyderabad had one bar each. The rankings and awards were based on a nationwide polling involving more than 200 jury members consisting of bar enthusiasts, beverage industry professionals, and liquor connoisseurs. The three-month polling exercise started with a long list of more than 500 bars spread across 15 cities. The ranking of the Best Bar Team and the Best Bartenders was based on a poll of a technical jury of 20 industry veterans.  Bar Tesouro from Goa won the Best Independent Bar Award, Copitas at the Four Seasons Hotel (Bangalore) won the Best Hotel Bar Award, Byg Brewski Brewing Company (Hennur, Bangalore) won the Best Microbrewery or Taproom Award and Bar Tesouro (Goa) won the Best Bar Design Award. Navjot Singh from Lair (New Delhi) was honoured with the Best Bartender Award, while Bar Tesouro (Goa) won the Best Bar Team Award. Furthermore, Bar Tesouro (Goa) also won the Best Cocktail Menu Award. Apart from this, a new award category—the Best Restaurant Bar Award was won by Comorin (Gurgaon). Meanwhile, Elephant and Co (Pune) and Bira 91 Limited Release Taproom (Bangalore), which won the People’s Choice Best Bar Award and Best Microbrewery/Taproom Award, respectively, emerged as the public favourites. Additionally, The Writer’s Bar, Welcomhotel By ITC Hotels, The Savoy (Mussoorie) won the Best Vintage Bar while Yangdup Lama was awarded as the Industry Legend. The organisers also acknowledged and honoured the resilience of bar operators and staff through the pandemic-induced lockdowns, by creating a one-off award titled ‘Best Pandemic Response’ Award.
Mr Vikram Achanta - Founder & CEO - Tulleeho and Co-Curator of 30 Best Bars in India, said, "Our master list of 500 bars with which we started our shortlisting process and how plenty of bar businesses navigated the last two difficult years, together is a testament to India's growing bar scene. In fact, several winners of tonight's 30 Best Bars ranking even have the potential to match up to the very best globally, and I congratulate all the winners." (Excerpt from a release) |
Wine, Spirits & Bar Industry News from IndiaStay updated with the latest developments in India’s alcohol beverage industry. The Happy High shares news, product launches, bar openings, policy updates, global trends, and stories shaping the world of wine, whisky, spirits, and cocktail culture.  
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