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Royal Stag BoomBox Presents ‘SIGH’ — Fusion of Music and Hip-Hop

Royal Stag BoomBox, brand’s flagship music IP in collaboration with Universal Music Group, returns with a fresh line-up under Royal Stag BoomBox Originals — a unique format that fuses melody and hip-hop. The platform now presents its first original of this season, SIGH — a collaboration featuring Nikhita Gandhi and Dino James.

Royal Stag BoomBox is back with its second season of BoomBox Originals – soundtracks that celebrate the brand’s spirit of Living It Large. It continues to redefine India’s musical landscape—blending genres, voices, and cultures and creating The Original Sound Of Generation Large.

Speaking about the collaboration, Nikhita Gandhi said, “Working on SIGH with Dino was such an exciting experience—it’s always refreshing to step out of your comfort zone and experiment. What I love about Royal Stag BoomBox is that it gives artists the freedom to truly express themselves—no filters, just pure sound and storytelling. It’s the perfect space to create something bold, new, and completely your own.”

Dino James added, “This track embodies everything we wanted to achieve – it’s bold, authentic, and unapologetically honest. Working with Nikhita elevated the entire composition, bringing a fresh dimension that perfectly complements the song’s energy. This is exactly what makes Royal Stag BoomBox such a compelling platform for artists. It encourages us to push creative boundaries and explore new territories.”

Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Global Business Development at Pernod Ricard India said, “The universal language of music, has this remarkable power to unite people and create moments of pure magic. Royal Stag continues to celebrate music as its key youth passion pillar. With Royal Stag Boombox Originals we are set to elevate the experience with exciting new soundscape, blending the melodies of Bollywood with the pulsating beats of Hip-Hop, truly exemplifying the brand philosophy of Living It Large.”

Commenting on the collaboration, Preeti Nayyar, SVP & Business Head – India & South Asia, UMG For Brands, added, “Royal Stag BoomBox stands for bold expression and creative freedom to cross over from familiar sonic to discover new ones. At UMG for Brands, we are proud to support a platform that gives artists the space to experiment, blend genres, and create music that speaks to the youth. Royal Stag BoomBox Originals continues to bring together incredible voices from different musical worlds and turn them into unforgettable collaborations. It’s a true reflection of the evolving sound of India.”

Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt wins Double Gold at Monde Selection 2025

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Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt Whisky has been awarded Gold Medals for both its expressions, Godawan 01 Rich & Rounded and Godawan 02 Fruit & Spice, at the 2025 Monde Selection Quality Awards. This dual recognition further cements Godawan’s position as India’s most awarded single malt in recent times, with over 90 national and international accolades to date.

Unlike standard blind-tasting formats, Monde Selection adopts a comprehensive evaluation process, assessing each spirit not only for flavour and aroma, but also for authenticity, craftsmanship and purpose. This makes Godawan’s continuing wins at Monde Selection even more meaningful, affirming that Indian whiskies are not only on par with the world’s best, but also bring a unique identity to the global stage.

Crafted in the heart of Rajasthan, Godawan is India’s premium artisanal single malt whisky with a distinct story, one rooted in place and purpose. Named after the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, locally known as Godawan, the brand represents mindful luxury and a profound respect for craft and conservation. Distilled in the arid climate of Alwar, Rajasthan, Godawan undergoes a unique ageing process shaped by the desert’s intense heat, which accelerates maturation and yields a richer, more full-bodied spirit. Using locally sourced six-row barley and a selective cask finishing process infused with Indian botanicals, each expression delivers layered complexity and refined character, resonating with both seasoned connoisseurs and curious new consumers. More than just a premium whisky, Godawan is backed by a strong commitment to sustainability, contributing to water conservation and ecological restoration initiatives across Rajasthan through Diageo India’s broader CSR efforts.

“As India’s most awarded single malt whisky, receiving consistent recognition from platforms like Monde Selection is a tremendous honour. This growing global momentum reaffirms our belief that India is not only crafting world-class whisky, but doing so with a distinctive identity, rooted in provenance, craft, and purpose. Year after year, we remain committed to upholding quality and consistency that resonates across cultures & continents,” says Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer, Diageo India.

Building on this momentum, the brand has recently launched its latest Travel Retail Edition, now available on select duty-free shelves in Bangalore and Dubai.

Oaksmith Introduces Nagomi: A New Benchmark in Indian Whisky Craftsmanship

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Oaksmith has unveiled its most premium expression yet – Oaksmith Nagomi. With this launch, the brand blends Japanese craftsmanship and global whisky making expertise, setting a new benchmark for modern Indian whisky.

This expression brings together the richness of aged Scotch malts, smoothness of American Bourbons, and the precision of Japanese blending techniques to craft a whisky that is rich, smooth, and harmoniously balanced. Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of ‘Nagomi,’ which represents harmony and balance–this whisky is a testament to the art of bringing diverse elements together in perfect sync. Oaksmith Nagomi has been crafted by Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender at Suntory, who was recently honoured as Master Blender of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge 2024.

“With Oaksmith Nagomi, we are not just introducing a new expression; we are reaffirming our commitment to elevate the Indian whisky segment,” said Rishi Walli, Senior Director – Marketing & IMFL Brands, Suntory Global Spirits. “Nagomi, inspired by the Japanese ethos of harmony and balance, is a whisky crafted for those who seek a fresh expression of aspiration. It also represents our dedication to blending global excellence, heritage, and authenticity, creating distinctive, high-quality whiskies that offer a premium experience with a truly international spirit. This launch marks the next chapter of Oaksmith’s journey where our Japanese legacy creates something more elevated for the evolving tastes of India,” he added.

Oaksmith Nagomi is a sensorial celebration crafted for the Indian palate. From its intense rich gold appearance to smoky, spicy, and fruity aromas, it offers a full-bodied experience with woody undertones from oak casks, finishing bright, smooth, and surprisingly long. Inspired by Japanese aesthetics, the bottle design reflects strength, simplicity, and timeless elegance, resonating with modern Indian consumers who value authenticity and character.

Currently launched in Goa and West Bengal, Oaksmith will soon expand to more cities. With Nagomi – its most premium expression yet, joining Oaksmith International and Gold, the brand continues to bring Japanese craftsmanship and modern whisky-making expertise to India.

Paul John Whisky Unveils Exclusive Limited Edition Whisky

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Paul John Whisky has announced the launch of its Limited Edition Peated Port Cask, available exclusively at Cochin International Airport Duty Free starting July 16, 2025. This marks the brand’s second exclusive release at an international airport.

Crafted in Goa by John Distilleries, the limited-edition single malt highlights the brand’s signature coastal maturation. Bottled at 55.3% ABV, only 402 bottles are available. The whisky is non-chill filtered, contains no additives, and is initially matured in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in Port casks.

Tasting Notes

Colour: Old oak
Nose: Rich aromas of blackberries, prunes, dried fruit, and a hint of dark chocolate
Palate: Baked orange layered with smoky, dark caramel
Finish: Smooth, with honeyed sweetness and elegant oak undertones

“This exclusive release at Cochin Duty Free is not only a special experience for global travellers, but also a personal milestone for me,” said Paul P. John, Chairman of John Distilleries. “Launching this in my home state is a proud moment for the entire Paul John Whisky team.”

Kartik Mohindra appointed William Grant & Sons India’s new Managing Director

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Sachin Mehta will head the Canada Business

In interesting news, Kartik Mohindra has been appointed as the new India Managing Director of William Grant & Sons. The change will take effect from 30^th September, 2025 and the current MD, Sachin Mehta, will take up an international role, leading the Canada business.

Kartik – who moves from Pernod Ricard India was responsible as the CMO and Head of Global Business Development there, assumes the new role with over 26 years of experience as a senior leader in marketing and sales primarily in the alcohol, beverage and FMCG sectors.

This opens up an exciting chapter for WG&S since Kartik comes with experience that’ve led innovation across various categories, from whiskies and wines to brand extensions in his previous role. According to reports – under his leadership, brands such as Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, Absolut, Blenders Pride, Royal Stag, Imperial Blue, Jameson, Jacob’s Creek Wines and 100 Pipers achieved leading market positions.

“These appointments reflect WG&S’ continued investment in key growth markets and a commitment to strengthening our global leadership team. We are excited to welcome Kartik to our team in India – a strategically important market for us,” said Doug Bagley, Chief Commercial Officer, WG&S. Kartik’s predecessor, Sachin Mehta will head the Canada Business following his work over the past nine years in India, which has made a significant impact, driving rapid business growth, strengthening the Company’s presence and achieving leadership for its portfolio of premium spirits brands in India.

Rampur Jugalbandi #6 named ‘Best World Single Malt’

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Rampur Jugalbandi #6, a limited edition Indian whisky has been named ‘Best World Single Malt’ at the 2025 John Barleycorn Awards held in the United States. The John Barleycorn awards are considered one of the most prestigious events in the global spirits world, and are judged by seasoned writers and industry experts.

Aside from this recently launched single-malt, two other Indian whiskies have also bagged awards for ‘Double Gold’ and ‘Gold in the Indian Single Malt Whisky – Tokaji Finish category’, respectively. Rampur Select secured a Double Gold, while Jugalbandi #5 earned Gold in the Indian Single Malt – Tokaji Finish category.

The Rampur Jugalbandi #6 is aged in rare Madeira casks in the north Indian climate, to attain the classic characteristics of the Rampur Single Malt whiskies.

Taste

The Jugalbandi series, #6, carries a pleasing aroma of floral and citrus notes, with a medley of fruits and caramelised pineapple and apricot on the palette. The alcohol by volume is 55.8 per cent.

Currently, this limited-edition Indian whisky is available in the Ospree Duty Free at Terminal 2 of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai, and the duty-free at Terminal 3 of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Rampur Select was awarded Double Gold for its signature smoothness and fruit-forward character. It is priced Rs. 12,500 for a 750 ml bottle. The blend is aged in the foothills of the Himalayas and is described as the ‘Kohinoor of Single Malts’ by the brand. Rampur Jugalbandi #5 received a Gold for its elegant and experimental cask finish and is matured first in American Bourbon barrels and then Tokaji wine casks, which infuses the liquid with fruity, floral and honeyed notes. The official MRP has not been disclosed.

ISWAI Urges Review of Maharashtra’s Excise Duty Hike on IMFL

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Prices of IMFL products expected to increase by up to 65%

In the wake of the current increase in excise duty on Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) by the Maharastra government, International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI) has raised strong apprehensions over the government’s recent decision The announcement has triggered concern amongst the stakeholders in the industry with prices of IMFL products expected to increase by up to 65%. For instance, the price of a 180 ml bottle can now be expected to increase by ₹100–130, something that is already doing rounds by consumers on social media. ISWAI and industry experts anticipate this increase having far-reaching economic and social consequences.

Currently the alcobev industry contributes ₹23,290 crore annually to the Maharastra Government, which has seen a robust 11% CAGR in total revenues and a 35% CAGR in the premium segment between FY20 and FY24. The industry stakeholders feel that this might derail this momentum and ISWAI is urging an urgent review of the new policy.

Although the review seems unlikely since the new FTA between UK-India have brought down the imported liquor duty from 150% to 75% initially.

Sanjit Padhi, CEO, ISWAI, said, “This unprecedented hike is likely to push consumers towards cheaper alternatives, including unregulated and potentially unsafe liquor.” Coupled with the high arbitrage with neighbouring states, this raises the risk of market infiltration by illicit products, posing a serious public health threat and undermining consumer safety he added.

This can also have more far etching implications according to ISWAI. Some of which include:

A potential decline in IMFL volumes may reduce demand for grain-neutral spirit (GNS), adversely affecting rural grain-supplying farmers
Likely downward trade for consumers to lower-end or cheaper products
This will impact expected incremental revenue to the government will be marginalised
Workforce rationalization at manufacturing units could result in job losses
Significant disruptions of ancillary sectors like logistics, packaging and bottling
Reduced footfall and revenue in bars and restaurants

There is a heightened risk of unintended consequences, including a surge in the consumption of illicit liquor and cross-border smuggling, particularly from neighbouring states like Goa and Madhya Pradesh, driven by the significant price arbitrage. This infiltration could severely impact both revenue collections and public safety.

ISWAI is also cautioning that the recent price hike may undermine the government’s revenue objectives by fueling non-compliance and expanding the illicit trade network. Rather than generating higher tax collections, the move could result in revenue leakages, as consumers turn to unregulated and untaxed sources of alcohol.

While the government has introduced a new category – Maharashtra Made Liquor (MML) – targeted at the ₹150–205 price range for 180ml, this segment is being vacated by existing IMFL brands, which are moving up to the ₹205+ bracket. However, with MML production expected to take over six months to ramp up, the interim period is likely to create a market vacuum, leading to potential revenue losses for the state.

“A balanced policy will not only ensure steady revenue inflow but also safeguard the interests of stakeholders across the value chain,” adds Sanjit Padhi. The industry, while supportive of reform, advocates a sustainable and revenue-positive model that balances fiscal goals with market realities.

World Chocolate Day, Baileys X Smoor Offerings

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On World Chocolate Day (July 7), a collaboration by Baileys X SMOOR is perfectly in tune with how India is thinking about chocolate: as an experience that goes beyond just taste.

This non-alcoholic dessert range brings together Baileys’ signature indulgence and SMOOR’s chocolate artistry in the most delicious way. The collection features: Flavoured Shots: Bite-sized Classic, Creamy Berries, and Sea Salt Caramel flavours; Flavoured Chocolate Bars: Smooth and luxurious bars in Classic, Creamy Berries, and Sea Salt Caramel flavours; and the Classic Cake.

The Dessert Collection by Baileys X SMOOR is now available in outlets across Bangalore, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Delhi, and Gurgaon.

India’s chocolate market is currently valued at approximately USD 2.6 billion and is expected to double by 2033. There is a growing appetite for desserts that feel a little more special and are design-led, unique in flavour and crafted with care. The Dessert Collection by Baileys X SMOOR is a non-alcoholic collaboration.

India’s First Homegrown Vermouth Launches in Bangalore

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After a successful debut in Goa, Davana Vermouth Indica – India’s first 100% homegrown vermouth, is now available in Bangalore. This expansion brings the brand’s expressions, Bianco and Rosso, to the garden city.

Davana is crafted using a Chenin Blanc wine base and infused with 21-23 native botanicals, including its namesake ‘Indian wormwood’ known as ‘davana’. Available in two distinct styles — Bianco, a light and floral blend with citrus and spice, and Rosso, a deep, spiced, and bittersweet offering — the brand presents an aperitif that’s versatile, elegant, and unmistakably Indian.

While vermouth has long held its place in cocktails like the Negroni, Martini, and Manhattan, it has rarely taken centre stage in Indian bars or conversations. Davana is looking to change that. The brand is not only looking to offer a local alternative to imported vermouths but also aims to educate consumers about vermouth as a category — as a pre-dinner ritual, a low-ABV sipping experience, and a key cocktail component.

Adarsh Gadvi, Co-Founder, Davana Vermouth Indica, says, “After Goa, we decided to bring Davana to a market that would spark conversations around vermouth. We’re excited to showcase a new generation of Indian spirits made for the world — but rooted at home.”

Founded by Adarsh Gadvi and Evgenii Savvateev, Davana took shape after over two years of development and more than 50 recipe trials. The bottle is a visual ode to India — adorned with intricate illustrations of lotus, peacocks, tigers, and the aromatic davana herb. The embossed Devanagari logo on the textured, cork-sealed bottle embodies bold design, artisanal craftsmanship.

Diageo India acquires Nao Spirits

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Diageo India has acquired Nao Spirits & Beverages, India’s craft gin makers (Greater Than and Hapusa brands), valued at Rs. 130 crores.

Diageo India (United Spirits Limited) has increased its equity stake in Nao Spirits from 30% to approximately 97.07%, making it a subsidiary of the company. With a final tranche pending, Diageo India is set to hold 100% ownership, bringing one of India’s most influential craft spirits startups fully into its fold. The transaction includes a secondary share purchase of ₹53.79 crore and a further infusion of ₹56 crore in growth capital — a strong commitment to scaling what began as a bootstrapped dream of India’s first homegrown gin.

Founded in 2017 by Anand Virmani, Aparajita Ninan and Vaibhav Singh; and later joined by Abhinav Rajput, Nao Spirits created India’s first craft gin from the ground up. From a small distillery in Goa, they distilled more than just spirits – they distilled the movement that would later be celebrated as ‘Indian Craft Spirits’. ‘Nao’, derived from the word ‘boat’ in Portuguese is a nod to Goa’s history as a trading port and a play on the English word ‘now’, capturing the spirit of a confident, modern India.

With Greater Than (2017), they introduced India to its first homegrown London Dry gin made with botanicals from around the world. With Hapusa (2018), they broke new ground with the world’s first Himalayan Dry Gin, bottling the wild spirit of the mountains with a premium, sipping gin. While Greater Than built the foundation, Hapusa gave gin a voice rooted in local flavour. Together, these helped build India’s craft gin category from scratch.

Imaginative Limited Editions

Nao Spirits launched a series of imaginative limited editions—each one crafted to stand apart, both in flavour and in form: Juniper Bomb (2020) – born from an accidental extended botanical soak that led to thrice the juniper flavour; No Sleep (2021) — India’s first coffee-infused gin; Broken Bat (2022) — the world’s first gin, aged using Kashmir Willow cricket bats; and Punk Gin (2023) – India’s first naturally infused pink gin made with real Mahabaleshwar strawberries, born from a place of rebellion.

These never-before-seen limited editions broke convention and captured attention, each bottle a celebration of India’s biodiversity, ingenuity and evolving palate.

“We started with a copper still named Agotha and a dream to make India proud. Today, we’re humbled and energised with Diageo India stepping in as a full partner and investor. Along the way, we realised that gin isn’t just about what goes into the bottle — it’s about the culture you build around it. From day one, we’ve been deeply focused on nurturing a community of bartenders, servers, and craft champions who could carry the story of Indian spirits forward in ways we never imagined. We’re proud that many of the original hands and hearts that built Nao Spirits are still with us today, and this next chapter gives us a chance to grow the culture we’ve helped shape with even greater reach and purpose. This isn’t the end of a journey, but the beginning of a new chapter; powered by the same people, the same purpose, and the same belief — that modern Indian spirits deserve their place on the world stage,” said Anand Virmani, Co-Founder & CEO, Nao Spirits & Beverages.

The original team continues to lead Nao Spirits with the same creative direction and cultural clarity that have defined its journey from the start — now supported by Diageo India’s robust distribution network, production capabilities, and leadership strength.