Debuting in Karnataka, India’s first crafted sparkling cocktail RTD
Misfit by Grover Vineyards has unveiled the perfect fuel to spark a bold new wave of self-expression. Making its debut in Karnataka, Misfit is India’s first crafted sparkling cocktail RTD. Misfit has four striking flavours: classics like Mimosa and Cranberry, and new ones like Kir Royale and Kalimotxo.
Born from the recipes of Grover Vineyards, Misfit cocktail spritzers have caps which open with a twist. Blended with natural fruit flavours, high-quality grapes, and the finest ingredients, Misfit spritzers are designed to delight the senses. Each variant offers a crisp refreshment with a fruit-forward balance.
“We noticed a rush to conform, whether it’s chasing the latest fashion microtrend or using the same trending audio just to ace the algorithm. That’s precisely why we created Misfit: a spritzer that cuts through the conformity and encourages consumers to embrace their individuality. Misfit also makes exploring spritzers genuinely fun, especially when it’s often seen as something intimidating. It’s truly for the trendsetters, the rebels and everyone who confidently makes their own rules,” said Sumit Jaiswal, Chief Operating Officer of Grover Vineyards.
With its debut in Karnataka paving the way for a nationwide rollout, Misfit is set to shake things up further with even more flavours on the horizon.
Geist Brewing Co., South India’s first distribution craft brewery, has launched Geist Repeat Strong, a full-flavoured Export-style Craft Lager. With this release, Geist Brewing Co. expands its flagship packaged range of 500ml cans from four to five beers, reinforcing its commitment to delivering consistent, high-quality craft options available across retail outlets and on tap at select locations. Currently available in Bengaluru at `210, the beer is slated to roll out in Pondicherry, Kochi, Trivandrum, Calicut and Kolkata soon.
“At Geist Brewing Co., our mission has always been to make true-to-style craft beer available and accessible to as many appreciating customers as we can. Globally, craft lagers are capturing renewed interest for their balance, depth, and drinkability—qualities Geist Brewing Co. has championed since day one. As pioneers in India’s craft beer movement, Geist Repeat Strong augments our beer portfolio with a craft lager that is approachable and sessionable, celebrating the growing worldwide appreciation for authentic, flavour-forward lagers,” said Narayan Manepally, Founder and CEO, Geist Brewing Co.
Geist Repeat Strong is an interpretation of the German Helles Exportbier. “Geist Repeat Strong exhibits the style diversity in lagers. It’s bold on alcohol and has a distinct balance between malts, hops and finish. These attributes come together in a very unchallenging way, making it very drinkable,” said Vidya Kubher, Head Brewer, Geist Brewing Co.
The Geist Repeat Strong can label design aligns with the core thought of ‘Every day we win‘ visually embodying triumph that speaks to everyone. The vibrant gold tones project positivity, energy, and an approachable optimism, inviting craft beer enthusiasts to celebrate life’s small victories without hesitation. The detailed malt-and-hop illustrations pay homage to the malt blends, hops and yeast used in the beer with deep respect for the Export heritage.
Molson Coors Beverage Company announced the appointment of Rahul Goyal, Chief Strategy Officer, to succeed Gavin Hattersley as President and CEO of the company. Rahul will assume the role and become a member of Molson Coors’ Board of Directors effective October 1, 2025. Gavin will remain in an advisory role until the end of 2025 to help ensure a smooth transition.
During his 24-year career at Molson Coors, Rahul has driven many of the company’s most successful recent ventures, serving in executive roles across information technology, finance and strategy. He started in Golden, Colorado at Coors Brewing Company and has held several global leadership roles such as chief information officer for Molson Coors in the UK and chief financial officer for Molson Coors in India.
Most recently as chief strategy officer, Rahul has focused on expanding the company’s portfolio in meaningful ways to reach more consumers during more occasions. Further, Rahul has driven the company’s beyond beer ambition by building successful partnerships with The Coca-Cola Company and Fever-Tree and leading the acquisitions of ZOA and Naked Life. Rahul also managed the commercial operations of Coors Distributing Company and played a key role in the management of The Yuengling Company, Molson Coors’ joint venture with D.G. Yuengling and Son.
“Rahul has delivered meaningful growth in new spaces for the company thanks to his ability to build partnerships that align with the company’s strategic priorities,” said Board Vice-Chair Geoff Molson. “On top of that, he leads with authenticity and integrity and has built deep trust both inside and outside of Molson Coors, while igniting passion around our transformation journey,” said Board Chair David Coors.
“I am honoured to take on the CEO role and lead this company towards its next chapter of growth,” said Goyal. I’m ready to take on both the opportunities and the challenges ahead of us knowing that we have the brands, the people and the passion to deliver on our ambitions, he added.
The Board of Directors expressed deepest appreciation to Gavin for having accelerated the business growth.
Paul John Whisky, Indian single malt whisky, in partnership with Avolta Duty Free has launched its second Limited Edition Bengaluru Duty Free Exclusive – The Bengaluru Habba.
This exclusive bottling with just 192 bottles is available only at the Kempegowda International Airport’s Duty Free from 19th September 2025 and is priced at ₹13,150. A collectible rarity, the whisky’s rich vibrant flavour profile and thoughtful packaging design captures the spirit of Bengaluru’s festivities, giving travellers and collectors a rare opportunity to experience the unique tropical character that defines Paul John’s legacy, while taking home the joyous celebrations of the city’s popular festivals.
Crafted in Goa, the Bengaluru Habba is a Master Distiller’s Special Selection, and is non chill-filtered, bottled at a robust 56.4% ABV and drawn from a single cask, with no additives and retaining its natural colour.
Tasting Notes
● Colour: Deep amber with glimmers of old oak
● Nose: A delightful burst of ripe tropical fruits laced with hints of cocoa and soft berry
notes
● Palate: Bright layers of baked citrus and toasted caramel unfold gracefully, balanced
with a gentle wisp of peat smoke
● Finish: Long, silky, and honeyed with an elegant touch of oak that lingers beautifully
Piccadilly Distilleries launched Indri Agneya recently – a lightly peated expression of its famous Indri Trini Indian Single Malt. That was launched back in 2022 and we reviewed that as well. Indri Agneya is an expression that is slightly different from the original, the Agneya is a dual-cask expression with a peated profile whereas Trini is aged in triple casks.
Price & Availability
Coming back to Indri Agneya – it is produced at Piccadilly’s Indri distillery in Haryana and is priced at ₹3,800 for a 750 ml bottle, with an ABV of 46%. It is currently available in Haryana, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Daman, and Goa, with more states and select international markets joining soon.
The price ranges from Rs. 3,800 – Rs. 8,000 with the most expensive being in Maharashtra.
How It’s Made
The name “Agneya” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “belonging to fire,” a nod to its smoky character. This expression uses indigenous six-row barley and is matured in Sherry and Bourbon casks.
According to Master Blender Surrinder Kumar, this is one of the most refined single malts they’ve made to date. The barley is gently kilned over peat smoke, allowing smoke to enhance rather than dominate the spirit. This ensures the whisky stays balanced and doesn’t lean too heavily on smoky intensity — a common challenge with peated malts.
Packaging
Agneya comes in a bold black bottle that stands out from the Trini’s design. The label highlights that it’s non-chill filtered and has no added colour. It even mentions that the whisky might appear slightly cloudy in cooler climates, completely natural.
The whisky itself has a deep, dark brown hue and the bottle design, with its striking black cap, gives it a premium, confident look.
Nosing
Light smoke
Delicate chocolate & vanilla sweetness
Warm spice
Fruity flavour – possibly apple and apricot
Earthy peat dust
Tasting
Sweet profile, toffee nutty flavour with gentle spice
Warm wave of peat smoke
Long finish with bite of spice
Conclusion
How is Indri Agneya? At Rs. 3,800 it is Picadilly’s bold expression.
Peated whiskies are usually an acquired taste, but this one feels refined and inviting. If you’re a fan of Indri or curious about exploring peated malts without going full Islay-style, this is definitely worth trying. It’s a confident step forward in India’s single malt journey and one that whisky lovers will appreciate.
It features interesting articles like: • UPDA International Summit 2025: Policy, science, and markets drive the agenda • Global alcobev industry market resilience • Tsüipu: From leftover fruit to Nagaland’s favourite wine • Eleven years in the barrel, one landmark release: Indri Founder’s Reserve
As the festive season approaches, the clinking of glasses takes on new meaning— one of celebration, togetherness and the art of gifting. Among the many tokens of appreciation exchanged, luxury spirits are steadily emerging as a preferred choice. More than just a bottle, they embody craftsmanship, heritage and exclusivity, making them ideal for commemorating life’s special moments. Whether it is a limited-edition single malt, a premium gin, or a rare cognac, luxury spirits are no longer just indulgences—they are becoming a language of culture and connection during festive gifting. Speaking about spirits—recently I met Siddhartha Sharma—the Promoter of Piccadilly Distilleries and tasted the Indri-Trini Founder’s Reserve. It represents not only the evolution of Indian whisky-making, but also the country’s ability to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the world’s finest. The Founder’s Reserve is fast becoming a luxury gifting choice for discerning consumers. It signals a broader trend—Indian spirits are no longer limited to the domestic market; they are redefining global perceptions of quality and authenticity. UPDA also recently concluded its annual conference—with discussions on policy, science and markets as the three drivers of the alcobev landscape in the State. Policy dictates the frameworks within which producers and retailers operate, often determining market accessibility. Science, from advances in fermentation to sustainable packaging, continues to push boundaries of innovation while addressing consumer demand for quality and responsibility. And markets, constantly shifting with consumer preferences and global economic tides, create the rhythm to which the industry must adapt. The interplay of these three factors doesn’t just drive business—it defines the pace of transformation across regions, from emerging markets like India to established hubs in Europe and the Americas.
Globally, the alcobev industry has demonstrated remarkable resilience in the face of uncertainty. From the disruptions of the pandemic to inflationary pressures and supply chain bottlenecks, producers and distributors alike have shown adaptability by leaning on digital platforms, diversifying portfolios, and embracing new consumer trends such as low- and no-alcohol alternatives. Premiumisation remains a strong current, with consumers showing willingness to spend more on fewer, better experiences. We have covered this and more in this issue, so let’s celebrate the festive season and toast to an industry that continues to evolve with grace, strength and resilience.
Jim Beam bourbon, and the Cadillac Formula 1 Team, have entered into a multi-year global partnership that brings together two of the most iconic names in American culture, now united on the world’s fastest stage: Formula 1. In 2026, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team will enter the FIA Formula 1 World Championship as the first new addition to the grid since 2016, with Jim Beam as its Official Spirits Partner.
Formed by TWG Motorsports and General Motors, the Cadillac Formula 1 Team brings together a legacy of engineering excellence and a shared commitment to innovation and performance—representing a new chapter in American participation on the global Formula 1 stage.
“More than a sponsorship, this story has been 90 years in the making. Every evening, Jim Beam, the brand’s legendary founder, would place a mason jar of his proprietary yeast—the living heart of his protected recipe—in the front seat of his Cadillac and drive it home to protect it from fire and prohibition. This daily ritual preserved the essential ingredient that still defines Jim Beam’s unmatched flavour enjoyed today around the world. Today, Fred Noe, Jim Beam’s seventh generation master distiller, still drives a Cadillac, a quiet tribute to the car that helped safeguard his family legacy,” a release from Jim Beam said.
“We are excited to bring the soul of Kentucky to the global stage of Formula 1 with Cadillac, a brand that’s been part of the Beam family’s story through the ages,” said Rashidi Hodari, managing director, James B. Beam Distilling Co.
“Both car racing and making Jim Beam bourbon require every individual and moving part to come together to create a positive collective outcome. The pit crew and our distillery workers both rely on the power of their communities to win. It’s this common understanding and the importance of connection with the next generation of Formula 1 fans that inspires us.”
With a vision to help the sport reach new audiences, the Official Partnership will come to life both on and off the track through immersive fan experiences with a focus on alcohol responsibility, retail and trade activations, and most importantly, a desire to bring people together.
“This partnership brings together two icons of American heritage to create something truly special,” said Cadillac Formula 1 Team Chief Executive Officer Dan Towriss. “Formula 1 is a global stage, and we want to take our fans on this journey with us every step of the way. Our vision goes beyond racing—we’re building a team that lives where sport, technology, and culture collide. With Jim Beam joining our family of partners, the momentum behind this project grows stronger every day as we gear up for our debut next year.”
With a core value of connection, uniting fans across the world, sport and music have always played a role in the Jim Beam brand’s heritage. From sponsoring the National Football League’s (NFL)Kansas City Chiefs and Dallas Cowboys, the Major League Baseball’s (MLB) L.A. Dodgers, and the United States Soccer Federation (U.S.S.F), to car racing including the Indianapolis 500 and NASCAR in the U.S., and Dick Johnson Racing (DJR), Australia’s oldest racing team. The brand has also brought fans together through local music festivals and underground shows around the world, and with global musical acts such as Muse and LeSserafim.
Seagram’s Royal Stag recently announced the onboarding of four new dynamic personalities—Sidharth Malhotra, Badshah, Naga Chaitanya and Payal Dhare— as its new brand ambassadors. They now join Rohit Sharma, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadav. Together, they embody India’s passions for Cricket, Cinema, Music, Gaming, while reflecting Royal Stag’s philosophy of Live It Large.
Actor Sidharth Malhotra said, “Royal Stag is all about what I believe in, the courage to try new things and the drive to Live It Large. It’s more than a brand, it’s an attitude that celebrates passion, ambition, and pushing yourself to the next level. I’m excited to be part of a journey that inspires people to dream bigger and live bolder.”
Rapper Badshah shared, “Living large is all about owning who you are, unapologetically. Doesn’t matter where you start from—what matters is the confidence and the hustle you carry. Royal Stag stands for that same belief, and that’s why I vibe with it. Together, we’re here to celebrate individuality and push people to chase their journey, their way.”
Actor Naga Chaitanya said, “Royal Stag is a brand that stays rooted in culture while constantly moving forward, and that’s what makes it so relevant today. I truly connect with this philosophy, and I’m excited to be part of a brand that reflects these values and connects so meaningfully with today’s youth.”
Gamer Payal Dhare added, “Royal Stag embodies the fearless spirit that drives every passionate dreamer. For me, my passion has become my profession. I have broken barriers, challenged stereotypes and redefined success on my own terms. For me, living large is about seizing every opportunity, celebrating every milestone big or small. This is just the beginning of something extraordinary.”
After reviewing The Spirit of Kashmyr plain vodka, today we’re diving into its saffron-infused variant. And just to be clear – this isn’t saffron flavoured vodka, it’s saffron infused, crafted to capture the delicate aroma of the spice.
Before you continue reading this I’d recommend checking out my review of the plain vodka, since both share several similarities, except for one key difference in distillation.
Price & Availability
This saffron vodka is produced by Radico Khaitan – India’s largest vodka maker and a 750 ml bottle is priced at ₹3,000 in Uttar Pradesh, with an ABV of 37.5%, slightly lower than the plain vodka’s 42.8%. It’s now also available in Maharashtra at Rs. 4,000 and Rs. 3,300 and Goa, with more states to follow soon.
What Makes It Special
Like the original, the saffron variant is made from premium Basmati rice and pure Himalayan Spring water. The saffron infusion elevates it into a more premium offering, and given the ₹3,000 tag in UP, one can expect even higher pricing across other states.
The bottle proudly features the Crocus sativus flower – the saffron crocus – sourced from Pampore in Jammu & Kashmir, a region famed for producing some of the world’s finest saffron.
The Name & Tribute
As I mentioned in my earlier review, The Spirit of Kashmyr Vodka’s are Radico’s homage to the Kashmir region – and celebrating its natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Packaging
The saffron edition mirrors the vibrant design language of the plain variant, this time in deep maroon-red hues. The bottle highlights the saffron flower, with “Indian Saffron Vodka” boldly printed across. The design draws inspiration from Kashmir’s landscapes – snow-capped peaks, saffron blooms, and a crystal-clear cork shaped to reflect mountain springs. The two-tone aesthetic adds a premium feel.
Also it mentions clearly on the bottle as well that there are no added flavours to this.
How it’s Made
Produced at Radico’s flagship Rampur Distillery, the saffron vodka follows the same meticulous process as the plain variant. It begins with multiple column distillations for a high-purity spirit. The saffron is then infused post the first distillation – adding subtle warmth without overpowering the base.
The spirit is further distilled slowly in copper pot stills for depth and smoothness, before being polished through silver, platinum and diamond-coated filters. The result is a crystal-clear vodka with remarkable finesse.
The creation is also overseen by Anup Barik, Radico’s renowned Master Blender, who has shaped number of products for them.
Nosing
Warm, floral notes
Light saffron spice
Refined and smooth
Tasting
Silky/creamy on the palate
Mild Spicy bite
mild honey-like sweetness
Long finish
Conclusion
This vodka is a bold step in Radico’s push into the premium space, following the success of Jaisalmer Gin and their luxury whiskies. The spirit itself is well-crafted and unique, but the challenge lies in pricing.
At ₹3,000 in UP (and likely higher elsewhere), it enters the territory of popular products like Grey Goose, Ketel One and Absolut. Whether it can carve its niche in that crowd will be interesting to watch. But as a product it is pretty good and surely something that you should try once.
