Ardent Alcobev has launched its new Blended Scotch Whisky for Maharastra in Mumbai. The launch event was held at Imara – Turf Club in Mumbai. The event was hosted by Kevin Pietersen, former England cricket captain and marquee investor in Ardent Alcobev, along with the co-founders.
The scotch whisky is exclusively bottled in Scotland and is available in two variants – the Premium variant, priced at ₹1,750, and the Reserve variant, priced at ₹2,450. According to the makers each bottle represents a blend of heritage and modern sophistication, offering a luxurious experience for whisky connoisseurs. Dram Bell is currently available in Maharashtra from November 2024 and will be available at select retail and on-trade stores. The company also plans to progressively expand distribution into other key markets in the North and South India.
Expressing his enthusiasm for the launch, Kevin Pietersen shared his personal connection to the brand and the philosophy behind Dram Bell. “My investment in Ardent Alcobev is more than just a business decision; it’s a reflection of my values. Throughout my career, whether on the cricket pitch or in other areas of life, I’ve always valued dedication, quality, and the pursuit of perfection.”
Iain Forteath, Master Blender at Ardent Alcobev and Kevin Peterson at the launch
The evening also witnessed an exclusive Whisky Masterclass led by Iain Forteath, Master Blender at Ardent Alcobev. The interactive session provided attendees with an opportunity to taste various expressions of Dram Bell, while discovering whisky blending and tasting.
Commenting on the launch, Debashish Shyam, Co-Founder and Director of Ardent Alcobev, shared, “We are redefining India’s premium whisky market with a blend that showcases unmatched quality and craftsmanship. With Kevin Pietersen as a strategic partner, we raise the brand’s profile by bridging the gap between international acclaim and preference of Indian market. We are confident that it will appeal to whisky connoisseurs as we merge global standards with local tastes to shape the future of Indian whisky, catering to the evolving preferences of IMFL drinkers.”
Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABD), India’s 3rd largest spirits company, completed the strategic acquisition of all the brands and other Intellectual Property Rights from Fullarton Distilleries Private Limited. This acquisition further augments ABD’s foothold in the super-premium spirits segment and highlights its ongoing commitment with leadership in innovation within the Indian craft spirits industry.
The acquisition includes the distinguished portfolio featuring brands such as Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin, and Segredo Aldeia Rum. By bringing these award-winning craft spirits into its fold, ABD is strategically positioning itself to meet the evolving demands of India’s super-premium and luxury spirits consumers.
Woodburns currently operates in six states and union territories, with expansion plans underway for other major markets. Pumori and Segredo Aldeia have established a strong on-trade presence in key markets such as Maharashtra and Goa. The acquisition of these recognised brands, combined with ABD’s operational scale, create a synergistic opportunity for growth and market dominance within the super-premium spirits category.
Alok Gupta, Managing Director of ABD, said, “At ABD, our growth has always been strategic, and the acquisition of Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky, Pumori Small Batch Gin, and Segredo Aldeia Rum perfectly embodies this. We recognise that the luxury segment is where we have a right to win, where we can truly add value. Acquiring these brands is a natural next step in our premiumisation strategy. This isn’t just an acquisition; it demonstrates our deep understanding of where we can create the most value. This is the future of ABD, and we’re executing this vision with precision.”
Rajiv Thadani, Founder and Managing Director of Fullarton Distilleries Private Limited, said, “Building Fullarton Distilleries since 2013 has been a journey of passion, dedication, and a commitment to crafting world-class spirits. We’re proud to see these brands move forward with ABD, a company that has the scale, expertise, and vision to take them even further. With their leadership, we are confident that the legacy we’ve built will continue to grow and thrive in the years ahead.”
Magic Moments Music Studio recently announced an exclusive concert series featuring the Bollywood singing sensation Arijit Singh. Known for his soul-stirring voice and chart-topping hits, Arijit Singh will captivate audiences across four cities starting January 2025.
The concert series began in Jaipur on 25th January, followed by performances in Chandigarh on 16th February, Cuttack on 2nd March, and concluding in Indore on 5th April.
This isn’t the first time that Magic Moments Music Studio has collaborated to bring a top artist. Over the years, the brand has collaborated with SaReGaMa and BookMyShow featuring Prateek Kuhad to also featuring King live concert and powering the Sunburn Music Festival. This partnership with Arijit Singh is yet another strategy to amplify its legacy of bringing larger-than-life musical experiences to fans across India.
Amar Sinha, COO, Radico Khaitan Limited, said, “Partnering with Arijit Singh, an artist whose melodies resonate across generations, perfectly aligns with our vision of creating moments that inspire connection and joy. Over the years, we’ve collaborated with iconic artists, celebrating diverse sounds and genres, and this multi-city concert series with Arijit is a continuation of that legacy. Together, we aim to craft an unforgettable symphony of music and memories, uniting hearts and transcending boundaries through the magic of music.”
Concert Schedule:
Jaipur: 25th January 2025
Shalimar Ground, Panchkula, Chandigarh: 16th February 2025
Barabati StadiumCuttack: 2nd March 2025
C21-Estate, Indore: 5th April 2025
The brand has also implemented 360ᵒ marketing promotions from executing high end retail promotions to activations witnessed on digital and various social media handles along with regional amplifications, across cinema and radio channels.
Radico Khaitan Limited at a Glance:
Radico Khaitan Limited is among the oldest and one of the largest manufacturers of IMFL in India. Earlier known as Rampur Distillery Company, Radico Khaitan commenced its operations in 1943 and over the years emerged as a major bulk spirits supplier and bottler to other spirit manufacturers. In 1998 the Company started its own brands with the introduction of 8PM Whisky. Radico Khaitan is one of the few companies in India to have developed its entire brand portfolio organically.
The Company’s brand portfolio includes Rampur Indian Single Malt Whiskies, Sangam World Malt Whisky, Spirit of Victory 1999 Pure Malt Whisky, Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, Royal Ranthambore Heritage Collection Royal Crafted Whisky, Happiness in a Bottle: A Happily Crafted Gin, Morpheus and Morpheus Blue Brandy, Magic Moments Vodka, Magic Moments Remix Pink Vodka, Magic Moments Verve Vodka, Magic Moments Dazzle Vodka (Gold & Silver), 1965 The Spirit of Victory Premium XXX Rum and Lemon Dash Premium Flavored Rum, After Dark Whisky, 8PM Premium Black Whisky, 8PM Whisky, Contessa Rum and Old Admiral Brandy.
Radico Khaitan is also one of the largest providers of branded IMFL to the Canteen Stores Department (CSD), which has significant business barriers to entry. The Company has distilleries situated in Rampur, Sitapur and Aurangabad, Maharashtra which is a 36% joint venture. The Company has a total owned capacity of 320 million litres and operates 43 bottling units (5 owned, 29 contract and 9 royalty bottling units). It is also one of the largest exporters of Alcoholic beverages from India, with brands available in over 102 countries.
Radico Khaitan Ltd., one of India’s leading spirits companies, has launched Magic Moments Verve Lemon Lush in West Bengal, marking a significant step in this millionaire brand’s strategic expansion. The Magic Moments Verve range is set to appeal to the growing consumer demand for premium flavoured vodkas, offering a refreshing lemon-infused variant that combines Gandhoraj Lemon juice with superior grains.
Building on the brand’s success in key markets such as Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Goa, Kerala, Pondicherry, and Telangana, Radico Khaitan aims to further strengthen its market presence in West Bengal.
The new variant’s smooth, refreshing taste and the citrusy flavour of the Gandhoraj lemons make it an ideal choice for the region’s tropical climate. The product’s versatility also makes it an excellent base for a variety of cocktails, perfectly positioned to meet the growing trend of cocktail culture in urban social settings.
Amar Sinha, Chief Operating Officer at Radico Khaitan Ltd., said, “Expanding Magic Moments Verve Lemon Lush into West Bengal aligns with our ongoing strategy of premiumisation and market expansion. With flavoured vodka now the largest growing segment in the category, we see significant potential in tapping into this demand with an innovative product offering that appeals to the evolving tastes of modern consumers. As the fourth-largest vodka brand globally, we continue to lead the market with a portfolio designed to meet the diverse preferences of our customers. The successful reception of this variant in other markets further strengthens our confidence in its success in West Bengal.”
Priced at ₹240 for 180ml, ₹450 for 375ml, and ₹860 for 750ml, Magic Moments Verve Lemon Lush is available in three convenient pack sizes across the state. The product will be distributed in prominent markets with strong demand for premium vodka, in line with Radico Khaitan’s strategy to reinforce its positioning as a leader in the premium spirits category.
Globally, Magic Moments continues to solidify its position as a market leader, earning recognition for its consistent quality and performance. According to the Brand Champions 2024 Report published by The Spirits Business, Magic Moments has been ranked as the 4th largest vodka brand by volume worldwide.
Additionally, Magic Moments Verve has been awarded Gold at the prestigious Global Monde Selection Awards for ten consecutive years (2013-2023). Specifically, Verve Lemon Lush has earned Gold for three consecutive years (2021-2023), alongside the International High-Quality Trophy, further cementing its status as a top-tier product in the spirits industry.
United Spirits Limited (“Diageo India”) on January 13 announced the appointment of Praveen Someshwar as CEO-Designate. Hina Nagarajan, current Managing Director and CEO of Diageo India, will transition into another position on Diageo’s Global Executive Committee after four very successful years.
Praveen will join the company on 1 March 2025 as CEO-Designate. In accordance with the applicable law and upon receipt of the necessary approvals, Praveen will take over from Hina Nagarajan as Managing Director and CEO of Diageo India and join the Diageo Executive Committee, effective 1 April 2025.
For the last five years, Praveen has been MD and CEO of HT Media, one of India’s largest and best-known media groups, where he leads multiple digital, print and radio outlets including India’s second largest newspaper, Hindustan Times, the leading financial news outlet Mint, and several radio outlets.
Diageo Chief Executive Debra Crew said “Under Hina’s leadership, Diageo India has combined strong top-line growth and margin expansion with impactful strategic initiatives, reshaping and premiumising our portfolio and positioning Diageo India as an innovative leader in the AlcoBev industry. As she moves on to a new role within Diageo, she leaves a significant track record of success and a highly engaged, talented and diverse team.
“Praveen joins us with an outstanding track record of leading consumer businesses, with a passion for both strategy and executional excellence that will serve us well as we plan for the next phase of Diageo India’s exciting growth story. I can’t wait to welcome him on board.”
Mahendra Kumar Sharma, Chairman of the USL board, said “On behalf of the USL Board, we wish to extend our sincere thanks to Hina for her strong stewardship of the business and her partnership with the Board. Together with the team in India, she has led a bold ambition for growth that has driven market share gains across multiple categories, and she leaves the business with a clear strategy and growth momentum. The Board and I also wish to welcome Praveen, who we look forward to working with and offering our full support as he transitions into this important leadership position.”
Hina Nagarajan said “It has been a true privilege to lead Diageo India during a period of strong strategic progress and sustained, profitable double-digit growth for the business, with our market capitalisation growing to more than INR 1 trillion (~US$ 12.5 Bn). I wish all my Diageo India colleagues ongoing success and look forward to supporting them as they continue their work in building this fantastic business under Praveen’s leadership.”
Praveen Someshwar said “I am delighted to be joining Diageo – a business with world-leading brands, talented colleagues, and a long-term commitment to developing its business sustainably in India. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to build on their great work.”
On December 3, the second India-UK 2+2 Foreign and Defence Dialogue was convened in New Delhi. The Indian delegation was led by Piyush Srivastava, Joint Secretary, Europe West, Ministry of External Affairs, and Vishwesh Negi, Joint Secretary, International Cooperation, Ministry of Defence. The UK delegation was led by Ben Mellor, India Director, Indian Ocean Directorate, Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Shimon Fhima, Director Strategic Programmes, Ministry of Defence.
Both sides discussed the entire gamut of India-UK comprehensive Strategic Partnership and emphasised the importance of sustained high-level engagement to advance the dynamic partnership between the two countries. The delegations reviewed progress under the India-UK Roadmap 2030 and agreed on the need to revitalise the partnership by identifying new focus areas of collaboration and work towards a refreshed roadmap.
The discussions covered key priorities including strengthening economic and trade ties with focus on early conclusion of mutually beneficial FTA, bolstering defence and security ties including in areas of cyber and counter terrorism, fostering innovation in critical and emerging technologies, deepening cooperation in clean and green energy and technology, health and enhancing cultural, educational and people to people linkages.
It was agreed that the third edition of the dialogue will be held in the UK at a mutually convenient date in 2025. The two sides unveiled the 10-year roadmap in 2021 to expand ties in the key areas of trade and economy, defence and security, climate change and people-to-people connections among others.
Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India
It may be mentioned here that during the recent G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Prime Minister, Narendra Modi and the British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, the latter had stated that the negotiations for the FTA would be relaunched in 2025. The FTA talks had been paused because of elections in both the countries.
Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the United Kingdom
The India-UK talks for the proposed FTA began in January 2022. The two sides have held 14 rounds of negotiations on it so far. Both countries aim to strengthen their existing £42 billion (US$52.05 billion – ₹4.48 trillion) annual trade partnership.
Keir Starmer had said, “Boosting economic growth is key to improving living standards for working people. A new trade deal with India will support jobs and prosperity in the UK – and represent a step forward in our mission to deliver growth and opportunity across our country.” Welcoming the statement, India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry, Piyush Goyal hoped that the FTA would be a win-win for both.
UK-India trade
As per reports, the trade between India and the UK was USD21.34 billion as of 2023-24 with UK exports to India accounting for a substantial chunk of that at USD16.6 billion. India, in turn, aims to expand its exports to the UK, targetting USD30 billion by 2030. Mineral fuels, machinery, precious stones, pharmaceuticals, apparel, iron and steel, and chemicals form the bulk of India’s exports to the UK, contributing 68.72% of the total export value.
Britain is aiming to touch USD36 billion by 2035. The UK has been wanting an agreement that includes cutting tariffs on exports of British-made cars and Scotch whisky.
According to Volza’s India Import data, India imported 7,922 shipments of Scotch whisky during March 2023 to February 2024. These imports were supplied by 169 foreign exporters to 159 Indian buyers, marking a growth rate of 3% compared to the preceding twelve months. Within this period, in Feb 2024 alone, India imported 489 Scotch whisky shipments. This marks a year-on-year growth of -16% compared to Feb 2023, and a -9% sequential increase from Jan 2024. India imports most of its Scotch whisky from the United Kingdom, Singapore and the United Arab Emirates.
India leads in Scotch Whisky imports
Globally, the top three importers of Scotch whisky are India, United States and Peru. India leads the world in Scotch whisky imports with 77,806 shipments, followed by United States with 13,417 shipments, and Peru taking the third spot with 2,489 shipments.
It is important to understand how the FTA would impact both the countries. Firstly, it would lead to tariff reductions on Scotch whisky and other products coming from the UK, while India is seeking better access to its goods and professionals. The UK has been negotiating for reduced import duty on Scotch whisky from 150% to 75% immediately when signing the FTA and thereafter to 30% over a period of three years. While Indian whisky makers are open to a reduction, they are opposed to the scale proposed by the UK negotiators.
SWA bats for reduced tariffs
The Scotch Whisky Association has stated that Scotch whisky is the world’s number one internationally traded spirit with exports worth over £5.6bn in 2023. 43 bottles of Scotch Whisky are shipped every second to around 168 global markets, totalling the equivalent of 1.35bn bottles (70cl @40% ABV).
As in 2022, Asia-Pacific continued to dominate as Scotch whisky’s largest regional market by value in 2023, supported record value exports to China, a market up 165% on 2019, and value uplifts Singapore (19%) and Taiwan (8%). Premiumisation of Scotch whisky remains a driver in these key markets: single malt Scotch whisky continued to rise in popularity among a growing cohort of consumers, with double digit growth in China and Singapore on 2022.
The Association cited 2023 exports to India which fell in volume and value compared to 2022, the fall coming against a backdrop of ongoing UK-India FTA talks and the Scotch whisky industry’s calls for a trade agreement which lowers the 150% tariff on Scotch imports into India, which would lead to significant export growth to the market.
Mark Kent, The Association Chief Executive, The Scotch Whisky Association
India is Scotch whisky’s second largest export market by volume, with the equivalent of more than 219 million bottles exported there in 2022. The volume of Scotch whisky exports to India have grown by more than 200% in the past decade alone, and whisky is hugely popular in India. In fact, India is the largest whisky market in the world. But while many Indian consumers are keen to add a bottle of Scotch to their shelves, bars and collections, Scotch whisky has just a 2% share of the Indian whisky market. There is huge potential for that to grow.
The Association Chief Executive, Mark Kent said, “The negotiations offer new hope for reducing the longstanding 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky in India. The UK/India trade talks are a golden opportunity to reach an ambitious tariff reduction in an early harvest deal that could grow Scotch whisky exports to India by £1 billion over five years. Tackling the tariff and State level regulatory issues would open the market up to smaller producers who are effectively locked out by the substantial barriers to trade. Improved market access for Scotch would enable an increasing number of Indian consumers to enjoy our premium product. It would also be good for our industry and Indian government tax revenues – a win-win for all.”
Barriers to export success
The Association added that Scotch Whisky is popular among Indian consumers, but a 150% tariff on imports of Scotch Whisky into India mean that it’s significantly more expensive to buy Scotch over Indian whiskies. As a result, India sees many ‘fake’ Scotch whiskies on the market, produced cheaply and traded on the reputation of Scotch whisky as a premium product. This unfair competition, alongside the 150% tariff and combined with the complexity of exporting whiskies into India, mean that many Scotch whisky producers are unable to enter this important market. Breaking down these barriers to trade in India would open up huge opportunities for Scotch whisky exports.
Potential for USD1.3 billion over next five years
The Association added that a UK-India trade deal has the potential to increase Scotch whisky exports to the country by £1bn over the next five years. “Reducing the 150% tariff on Scotch Whisky would make it more affordable in India, while still remaining a high-end, premium product. If the tariff were liberalised, Scotch whisky’s market share could treble to 6%, giving greater access to Scotch whisky products for Indian consumers, but still allowing Indian whiskies and other spirits to retain the dominant share of the market.”
Good for Scotland and the UK
Many more Scotch whisky companies – including smaller and independent producers – would gain access to the Indian market to sell their whiskies. If the tariff were reduced and exports were to rise, India would overtake France as Scotch Whisky’s second largest market by value worldwide, second only to the United States.
Boosting access to the Indian market would secure jobs and investment in the Scotch whisky industry across Scotland into the future. The industry’s contribution to the economy would rise by more than £300 million to nearly £6bn. Higher exports mean higher production – there would be a significant impact into the supply chain in Scotland and across the UK, also growing jobs and investment.
Good for India
The Association mentioned that “bringing down the 150% tariff on Scotch whisky would increase Indian government tax revenue at federal and state level by £3.4 billion annually through an increase in sales. Scotch whisky would be able to compete fairly alongside Indian whiskies, which will continue to dominate the Indian whisky market.
Because a lot of the whisky exported to India is sent in bulk (some for bottling as Scotch whisky, most for use in Indian whisky) bringing down the tariffs would also support domestic producers, reducing their costs and boosting employment in the Indian industry.” However, the Indian whisky manufacturers are opposed to the scale of reduction and are ok with tariffs reduced progressively to 50% over the next 10 years. The negotiations are going to be tough and it remains to be seen who will stand to benefit.
Cheers to 2025! Tipplers across the country have given the liquor trade a good enough reason to be cheerful. Liquor sales have hit the roof, just in the two days as revelers rang in the new year. The southern states of Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana and Kerala have shown robust sales. According to estimates, Telangana has broken all records with liquor sales of over ₹800 crores on December 30 and 31, eight times the usual daily sales of around ₹100 crores.
The Telangana State Beverages Corporation Ltd (TSBCL) sources have told some media that last year the sales were around ₹700 crores on December 30 and 31 and this year the increase was phenomenal. Telangana registered liquor sales of about ₹402 crores on December 30 and ₹401 crores on New Year’s Eve night as revelers flocked to bars and restaurants; liquor stores and enjoyed at home drinking. There were hundreds of parties that rocked the city of Hyderabad which had the most sales, followed by surrounding districts of Ranga Reddy and Medchal.
Telangana has overtaken its previous record of liquor sales in the month of December. This year the government raked in a revenue of ₹3,523.16 crores, compared to ₹2,764 crores in December 2023. With Sankranti round the corner, excise officials expect the momentum to continue, though not on the same scale as year-end celebrations. The Telangana government has set a target of ₹45,000 crores from excise for 2024-25.
As per media reports, Uttar Pradesh came next in sales, having done a business of nearly ₹600 crores, breaking its previous record.
Karnataka rakes in nearly ₹1,000 crores in end December
Karnataka, more so Bengaluru which is known for its pub and cocktail culture, witnessed its highest single-day liquor sales of ₹409 crores on December 28 as residents and bars stocked spirits. The Karnataka State Beverages Corporation Limited (KSBCL) reportedly sold liquor worth ₹308 crore during New Year celebrations in the state against the target of ₹250 crores. At least 4.83 lakh boxes of Indian-made liquor (IML) were sold generating revenue of ₹250.25 crore. Around 2.92 lakh boxes of beer bottles were sold for ₹ 57.75 crore. In total 7,76,042 lakh boxes of liquor were sold.
December has been an exceptional month as during Christmas too there were good sales. On December 27, ₹408.58 crore liquor sale was registered. Around 6.22 lakhs of IML boxes and 4.04 lakh beer boxes were sold, generating business of ₹327.50 crore and ₹80.58 crore.
Andhra Pradesh sales hit a new high
Tipplers in Andhra Pradesh gulped down liquor worth nearly ₹300 crores on New Year’s Eve, double the amount of liquor sales during the previous year (₹147 crores). To encourage sale of liquor, the Andhra Pradesh government allowed the retail vends to be open until midnight, while bars were permitted to dispense liquor till 1 am.
The port city of Visakhapatnam registered sale of liquor worth ₹11 crore on December 31 alone with around ₹ 8.89 crores sales happening through 145 liquor outlets in Visakhapatnam district; ₹ 1.55 crores from 119 bars; ₹17 lakh sales from 12 star hotels; ₹8 lakh sales from six clubs and ₹ 7.5 lakh from four tourism hotels, according to the Superintendent of Excise, R. Prasad. Visakhapatnam average daily sales is ₹ 5 crores.
Delhi touches ₹400 crore sales
Delhi also saw liquor sales worth ₹400 crore, with hotels, bars and party events consuming the most alcohol, while Noida had sales touching ₹16 crores on December 31 and January 1, 2025, boosted by the extended hours of vending.
Kerala sees more sales during X’mas
In Kerala, it was Christmas season which saw Keralites guzzle more beer and liquor than during New Year’s Eve. On December 24-25, beer and liquor sales in Kerala was about ₹152 crores (₹94.72 on December 24 and ₹54.64 crores on Christmas day) while on New Year’s Eve it was ₹108 crores, nevertheless ₹13 crores more than the previous year.
The Kerala State Beverages Corporation (KSBC), the sole wholesaler of alcoholic drinks in the state, released these figures. It said that the sale of liquor and beer was about ₹19,088.68 crores in 2023-24, up from ₹18,510.98 crores in 2022-23. The profile of liquor consumers in Kerala reveals that around 32.9 lakh people out of the 3.34 crore population in the state consume liquor, which includes 29.8 lakh men and 3.1 lakh women. Around five lakh people consume liquor on a daily basis. Of this, as many as 83,851 people, including 1,043 women, are addicted to alcohol.
Volcan de mi Tierra, the ultra-premium tequila brand by Louis Vuitton-Moët-Hennessy is launching its portfolio in India. Volcan de mi Tierra brings the finest tequila offerings – Blanco, Reposado, Cristalino and the extraordinary Volcan X.A, to Indian consumers.
Rooted in over 300 years of heritage and passion, Volcan de mi Tierra draws on the time-honoured traditions of the Gallardo family, whose roots in the tequila-making process trace back to 1774 at the famed Hacienda La Gavilana in Jalisco, Mexico. In partnership with Moët Hennessy, the Gallardos’ mastery in tequila craftsmanship is combined with Moët Hennessy’s global savoir-faire, resulting in a product that celebrates the art of tequila making, authenticity, and innovation in every sip.
Volcan is associated with NOM 1523, a prestigious distinction in the tequila industry. With over 2,200 tequila brands made from 169 distilleries in Mexico, Volcan stands out as one of only five additive-free single nom distilleries which are 100% additive free in the world highlighting commitment to the highest standards of quality and purity. Driven by a passion to craft the best of what tequila can offer, Volcan de mi Tierra uses the finest 100% Blue Weber Agave. Its all-natural flavour and colour result from Volcan’s expertise in blending and aging. Each bottle is hand painted numbered and sealed reflecting exceptional craftsmanship. Its handcrafted field to bottle.
The Volcan portfolio honours Mexico’s terroir, with each expression showcasing the spirit of Jalisco capturing the essence and energy of the volcano’s raw natural power and allows different tequila profiles to come together in perfect harmony.
Volcan Blanco: A pure expression of 100% Blue Agave, this perfectly balanced tequila offers subtle sweetness and natural flavours of agave with delicate hints of grapefruit, a touch of black pepper spice resulting in a well-balanced finish.
Volcan Reposado: Aged in American and European oak barrels, the dual aging process brings out the intricate complexity and refined finesse of our carefully selected agave, terroir and wood. Soft with a rich mouthful. Balanced and smooth.
Cristalino: Aged and charcoal filtered for clarity. Further finished in Cognac and whisky casks giving it the primary notes of caramel, tabacco, and dark chocolate followed by the secondary notes of vanilla, soft spices and dried fruits.
Volcan X.A: A true masterpiece, this innovative blend of Reposado, Añejo, and Extra-Añejo tequilas is a unique assemblage of ages. Crafted from 100% Blue Agave, without any additives, XA reveals a perfect balance of cooked agave, hint of spices and sweet aromas delivering an unparalleled richness and complexity that sets a new standard in the world of tequila.
“Volcan de mi Tierra brings a distinctive offering with its positioning of being one of the only five Tequila’s worldwide with a single nom and 100% additive-free – it delivers an authentic expression of Mexican terroir and craftsmanship,” says Smriti Sekhsaria, Marketing Director, Moët Hennessy India.
Volcan de mi Tierra is available in Goa, Haryana, Mumbai and Airports and is priced –Volcan Blanco- ₹10,267; Volcan Cristalino – ₹15,967; Volcan Reposado – ₹12,198; and Volcan XA – ₹39,107.
Paul John Indian Single Malt Whisky recently announced the release of the 7th edition of Christmas Edition Series. This exceptional unpeated expression, meticulously crafted from the finest Indian ingredients, continues the brand’s legacy of celebrating the festive spirit with unmatched elegance and flavour.
This limited-edition blend continues the legacy of its predecessors, which have consistently garnered international acclaim for their distinct profiles and complexity. Over the years, the Paul John Christmas Edition Series has earned a loyal following for its bold experimentation with cask finishes and vibrant flavour blends.
Each release is a testament to Paul John’s dedication to pushing boundaries while honouring the essence of Indian single malt whisky. The 7th edition stands out with its deep golden hue, exotic aromas of mango and pineapple, and flavours of coconut, candied orange, and toasted oak on the palate, leaving a finish rich in fruit tart and salted toffee.
With only 6,600 bottles for domestic and international markets, this latest release continues the brand’s tradition of crafting rare, collectible whiskies that celebrate the spirit of the season. The 7th edition is designed to rival the world’s finest aged whiskies, earning its place among distinguished shelves.
Since its inception in 2012, Paul John Whisky has established itself as a global icon, earning over 330 prestigious international awards. From being named the World’s 3rd Finest Whisky for Mithuna by Paul John with an impressive 97 points, to the Liquid Gold Award for Paul John Single Cask 161 Whisky, the brand’s accolades speak to its exceptional quality and innovation.
The Christmas Edition Series has become a symbol of Paul John’s ability to blend creativity with tradition, reflecting the vibrant culture of its Goan origins.
Experience the festive charm of Paul John’s 7th Christmas Edition, available now in select global markets. Crafted to be savoured straight or with a splash of water or ice, this limited edition promises to be a cherished gift for whisky connoisseurs and collectors alike.
The first direct Air India Express flight from Surat to Bangkok on December 20 ran out of liquor mid-air as the ‘alcohol-starved’ passengers gulped alcohol, reportedly worth Rs. 1.8 lakhs, in no time. The cabin crew seemed helpless answering the request for more liquor and had to make an announcement that they had run out of alcohol. The airline has not made any statement on the same.
The first direct flight between the two cities was a ‘picnic’ of sorts with Gujarati snacks such as thepla and khaman and what-have-you passing hands. Passengers have shared videos of the first flight which shows some of them enjoying the free liquor available on international flights. The videos have gone viral attracting social media attention and reflecting how Gujarat, a state where prohibition exists, is crying for lifting of the ban. According to unverified reports, passengers consumed approximately 15 litres of premium alcoholic beverages, including Chivas Regal, Bacardi, and beer.
Air India Express, the low-cost subsidiary of Air India, a Tata Group company, began operations to Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi International Airport from December 20th, with nonstop flights from Surat and Pune, utilising Boeing 737Max 8 aircraft, the flying time being four and a half hours from Surat.
The incident reignited the need to review the prohibition policy in Gujarat which in December 2023 had relaxed rules just in the GIFT (Gujarat International Finance Tech) City. The state government partially relaxed its 63-year old liquor prohibition law in an attempt to woo foreign investors and corporates to invest in GIFT city. The state government has allowed alcohol consumption in hotels, restaurants and clubs offering ‘wine and dine services’ in the GIFT City. Such exemption has never been granted in any area of the state in the past.
Prohibition has been in place ever since statehood in 1960, originally in the purview of the Bombay Prohibition Act, 1949, but now under the Gujarat Prohibition Act, 2011, following several amendments. Gujarat has seen a number of deaths due to illicit liquor and in 2009, it claimed 150 lives. In 2022, over 40 people died due to consumption of spurious liquor. The law states that there would be death penalty for those found guilty of making and selling spurious liquor in case there are deaths. The law allows for temporary and long-term drinking permits to foreigners, NRIs and tourists, with outlets and purchase limits specified. A resident can get a permit only on health grounds. At special economic zones, the government allows consumption against three-year permits.
Though there are voices urging the government to lift prohibition in a State which introduced the same as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi, the State Government is caught in a ‘Gandhian-bind’.
