Author Archives: Janhavi Panani

Mayouchi wooing diners with the elegance of their food, drinks and ambience

Mayouchi embraces the rich culinary traditions of Chinese and Japanese cuisine, infusing both styles with a contemporary flair. The restaurant aims to be a harmonious blend of Chinese and Japanese cooking techniques, creating a unique and immersive dining experience.

At Mayouchi, gastronomy is more than a meal—it’s an experience that unites heritage with modern flair. Every element, from the sourcing of ingredients to the final flourish on the plate, is crafted to create moments of delight and discovery.

Helming Mayouchi’s kitchen is Chef Golpin Sianipar, a culinary virtuoso known for his mastery of Asian cuisine. Drawing inspiration from his roots and global culinary influences, Chef Golpin brings a fresh, contemporary approach while respecting time-honoured traditions. His creations blend authenticity, technique, and imagination, resulting in dishes that are vibrant, memorable, and layered with meaning.

Nestled in the heart of Mumbai, The Westin Mumbai Powai Lake offers one of the city’s most captivating lakeside views. Inspired by this idyllic setting and the stories etched within its walls, Mayouchi’s bar presents a curated selection of cocktails celebrating the property’s rich past and lively present.

Mayouchi strives to offer an elegant and intimate lounge experience. The setting is ideal for enjoying breath-taking sunsets over the city skyline and the serene Powai Lake. As the evening progresses, the restaurant transforms into a high-energy lounge, featuring craft cocktails and a curated music playlist.

The handcrafted cocktails tell a beautiful story, adding a personalised touch to the beverage menu. The cocktails had a smooth finish with none of the ingredients overpowering the drink.

The Chef’s Special Curated Menu showcases the culinary expertise of the chefs. The menu is a testament to Mayouchi’s commitment to exquisite dining. The food was flavourful accentuating the elegance of each dish.

Mayouchi is not just a restaurant; it’s an immersive journey through the vibrant tapestry of Asian flavours and aesthetics, where every detail is crafted to elevate the dining experience.

Globus Spirits Launches TERAI India Craft Vodka

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World’s First Amethyst-Crystal Filtered Vodka
Launched in Rajasthan, expansion soon in Delhi, Gurgaon, Goa, and Mumbai

Globus Spirits Limited recently announced the launch of TERAI India Craft Vodka, the vodka filtered through amethyst crystals.

Handmade with care and cultivated from grain to glass at the TERAI distillery in Behror, Rajasthan, TERAI India Craft Vodka is crafted using locally sourced rice and bespoke production methods. The distillate undergoes a unique refinement process—filtered through amethyst crystals—creating a vodka which is smooth, playful, and unlike any other in the premium category.

Commenting on the launch, Shekhar Swarup, Joint Managing Director, Globus Spirits, said, “At Globus Spirits, our vision is to create world-class products that blend Indian tradition with global innovation. TERAI India Craft Vodka, with its unique amethyst crystal refinement, is a first for the world and a bold step in our premiumisation journey. We are confident it will resonate strongly with discerning urban consumers who seek authenticity, craftsmanship, and distinction in their spirits.”

TERAI India Craft Vodka has made its debut in Jaipur and Udaipur, Rajasthan, priced at `2,245 for a 750ml bottle. Expansion to Delhi, Gurgaon, Goa, and Mumbai is planned shortly, with availability across leading retail outlets and select premium channels.

With a distilling heritage dating back to 1958, Globus Spirits has been steadily strengthening its premium portfolio. The journey began with TERAI India Dry Gin, which has become a recognised name in the craft gin space, and now continues with the launch of TERAI India Craft Vodka.

Carlsberg India Signs MoU with Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Commits ₹1,250 Crore Investment

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Carlsberg India, the wholly owned subsidiary of Carlsberg Group, announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI), Government of India, at World Food India 2025. The agreement reaffirms Carlsberg’s long-term commitment to India through proposed investments of ₹1,250 crore across key states.

The investments will strengthen Carlsberg India’s brewing and packaging footprint with investments of ₹500 crore towards a new greenfield facility in Ahilyanagar, Maharashtra, ₹400 crore for brownfield expansion in Hoogly, West Bengal, ₹350 crore for brownfield expansion in Mysuru, Karnataka (previously announced).

Over the next three years, Carlsberg India expects incremental procurement of nearly ₹600 crore in raw and packaging materials, directly benefitting industries such as malt production, glass, cans, cardboard, and logistics.

Speaking on the occasion, Nilesh Patel, Managing Director, Carlsberg India, said, “India is a priority growth market for Carlsberg Group. Our investments in Maharashtra, West Bengal, and Karnataka underline our long-term commitment to India’s future. These projects will expand our operational capacity, create meaningful employment, and generate excise revenues for the states.”

Carlsberg India is also embedding sustainability at the core of these investments, with a focus on renewable energy, water efficiency, and sustainable packaging solutions. These initiatives are aligned with India’s climate and development goals, as well as the Carlsberg Group’s global sustainability programme, Together Towards ZERO and Beyond.

Allied Blenders & Distillers Expands Manufacturing with PET Unit, Bets Big on Single Malt

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Allied Blenders & Distillers Ltd (ABD) has commissioned a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle manufacturing facility at its integrated complex in Rangapur in Telangana. With an annual capacity of over 600 million bottles, the new plant is equipped with robotics, automation, recycling, and energy-saving technologies—part of the company’s backward integration strategy to boost self-reliance and cut costs.

The inauguration was led by founder Kishore Rajaram Chhabria, alongside managing director Alok Gupta and executive director Arun Barik. “This facility will significantly strengthen our supply chain while improving profitability through savings in logistics and packaging costs,” said Gupta.

The Rangapur complex is among ABD’s flagship assets, housing a 65-million-litre extra neutral alcohol (ENA) distillery, an Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) bottling unit, and now, the PET facility. Regulatory approval was recently granted to increase grain spirit production to 615 lakh bulk litres per year.

In addition, the site is witnessing fresh investment with the setup of a single malt whisky plant at an outlay of ₹75 crore. The facility, expected to commence production by the end of this fiscal year, will mark ABD’s entry into the premium single malt segment. Once distilled, the whisky will mature for at least three years before hitting the market—meaning ABD’s first single malt is expected post-2029.

Betting on Premiumisation and Global Demand

Alok Gupta highlighted that single malt whisky is one of the fastest-growing categories globally, and Indian brands are gaining traction with international accolades. “This will be a fascinating opportunity for ABD as Indian single malts have captured the imagination of global consumers.”

The company already exports to 27 countries and plans to expand its footprint to 35 markets. Exports currently contribute 8% of ABD’s topline.

ABD has also recently introduced five luxury brands since January 2024, diversifying beyond its mass-market Officer’s Choice whisky and Zoya premium gin. Historically known for its sub-₹1,000 price segment, ABD is now positioning itself to compete head-on with international premium players.

Capex-Driven Growth Story

ABD is in the midst of a ₹527 crore capital expenditure programme aimed at operational efficiency, premiumisation, and capacity expansion. About 25% of this investment was completed in FY24, with 60% earmarked for FY25 and the remainder in FY26. The spend will also support the company’s plan to expand total distillation capacity from 71 million litres per annum (mlpa) to 121 mlpa by FY27.

According to Gupta, these investments are expected to lift EBITDA margins from 7.5% to 17% and improve return on capital from 18% to above 20% by FY28. ABD has guided for 14–15% annualised growth in net sales over the next three fiscals, projecting its topline to double in just over five years.

Beyond expansion, ABD continues to embed sustainability in operations. The Rangapur site incorporates water recycling, biomass fuel handling, and energy-efficient automation across production. These measures not only reduce environmental impact, but also improve cost structures, complementing the company’s growth-driven investments.

Listed on Indian stock exchanges in July 2024, ABD reported revenues of ₹3,541 crore in FY25. With backward integration through packaging, aggressive capex in distillation, and a strategic push into single malt, the company is betting on premiumisation and global growth to shape its next decade.

“Consumers are upgrading, regulations are becoming more supportive, and Indian spirits are getting their due recognition globally,” Gupta said. “We see this as the perfect time for ABD to expand beyond our traditional base and build a strong premium portfolio for India and the world.”

Alcobrew Distilleries Files DRHP with Sebi for ₹600-Crore IPO

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Founder to offload 18 million shares in OFS
Fresh issue proceeds earmarked for expansion and repayment/prepayment of borrowings

With its registered office at New Delhi- Alcobrew Distilleries India Ltd, the maker of whisky brands such as White & Blue and Golfer’s Shot, has filed its draft red herring prospectus (DRHP) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) for a proposed initial public offering (IPO).
The IPO consists of a fresh issue of equity shares aggregating ₹258.26 crore and an offer for sale (OFS) of up to 18 million shares by promoter Romesh Pandita, the founder and chairman of the company. The equity shares carry a face value of ₹10 each. Other promoters include Veena Pandita and the Romesh Pandita Family Trust.
According to the DRHP, Alcobrew plans to utilise the net proceeds from the fresh issue for business expansion, Repayment/prepayment of borrowings, and general corporate purposes. As per regulatory guidelines, 50% of the issue will be reserved for qualified institutional buyers (QIBs), 15% for non-institutional investors (NIIs), and 35% for retail investors.
Founded in 2002, Alcobrew Distilleries was converted into a public limited company in 2022. The Company manufactures, markets, and sells a wide range of alcoholic beverages, including whisky, vodka, and rum. Its brand portfolio spans premium and mass-market offerings such as Golden circle, Golfer’s Shot (premium whisky), White & Blue (blended whisky), White Hills (regular whisky), and One More (vodka).
The company operates manufacturing units in Solan (Himachal Pradesh) and Dera Bassi (Punjab) with integrated distillation and bottling facilities. It has also built a robust distribution network supported by contract manufacturing arrangements, giving it a strong pan-India presence.
In addition to domestic operations, Alcobrew has been expanding its global footprint. The company currently exports to countries across Africa, Asia, and the Middle East,. It continues to scout new overseas markets to strengthen its position among India’s emerging liquor exporters.
On the financial front, Alcobrew reported consolidated revenue of ₹1,615.01 crore in FY25, compared to ₹1,640.11 crore in FY24 and ₹1,216.87 crore in FY23. Its profit after tax (PAT) rose to ₹69.45 crore in FY25, up from ₹62.55 crore in FY24 and ₹52.30 crore in FY23.
India’s alcoholic beverages market has been witnessing strong growth, fuelled by rising disposable incomes, premiumisation, and evolving consumer tastes. Industry experts believe Alcobrew’s diverse brand portfolio, integrated operations, and growing international presence position it well to tap this demand.
Motilal Oswal Investment Advisors is the book-running lead manager to the issue, while KFin Technologies will act as the registrar.

DEWAR’S Launches ‘Here’s to the Story’ Campaign with Bar Swap Experience

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If you’ve been following Ambrosia then you would know that Bar Swap’s are a new trend in the country.

And DEWAR’S in its new campaign is banking on that. Their new initiative Here’s to the Story, opens with a unique Bar Swap between SOKA in Bengaluru and LAIR in Gurugram, where two mixologists from SOKA will bring their signature cocktails to Delhi for a one-night takeover.

The campaign will run under the larger umbrella of DEWAR’S Discoveries, a series of activations designed to encourage exploration through flavour, storytelling, and shared experiences. Each event will highlight regional nuances in cocktails, food, and culture, creating opportunities for audiences to engage with Scotch in fresh contexts.

Actor Randeep Hooda has also joined the campaign, bringing his perspective on discovery and storytelling. From flavours rooted in India to experiences abroad, his collaboration highlights the cultural and sensory layers the campaign aims to explore.

Over the coming months, the Bar Swap format and other activations will travel to key cities including Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata, each edition introducing local elements and new interpretations of Scotch.

So keep an eye out for the dates for these curated experiences.

Cashmir Vodka Review | Piccadilly’s Winter Wheat Vodka

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Piccadilly Distilleries has now entered the vodka segment with Cashmir Craft Vodka. This premium small-batch vodka takes inspiration from Kashmir and sets itself apart with its unique base ingredient—Sona Moti Wheat, also known as the Golden Pearl.

Price & Availability
Cashmir Vodka is priced at ₹1,800 in Goa for a 750 ml bottle, with an ABV of 42.8%. It is currently available across Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, Daman, and Uttar Pradesh.

How It’s Made
Sona Moti Wheat, used in Cashmir Vodka, is believed to have been rediscovered after nearly 2,000 years. With its rich golden grains, this wheat has deep roots in Indian culinary heritage. Piccadilly revived it by cultivating and replanting over 200 acres, a process that took six years – post acquiring a handful of grains from a farmer based in Punjab.

Produced in small batches, Cashmir Vodka uses pristine water from Kashmir. The spirit undergoes seven rounds of distillation followed by five stages of activated carbon filtering for purity and smoothness. To further refine the liquid, it is polished with mango wood charcoal to remove bitterness, and finally filtered through platinum, gold, and silver—giving it a silky and refined texture.

The vodka is curated by Master Blender Surrinder Kumar (the mind behind Indri-Trini and Camikara), the vodka is positioned as a premium contender in its category.

Packaging
In contrast to the often flashy vodka segment, Cashmir opts for elegance and subtlety. The label features a holographic window that, when viewed through, reveals a snow-capped mountain. Iconic Kashmiri motifs—flora, fauna, and even the Shikara—adorn the design in a soft golden hue.

The bottle also states clearly that this vodka is non-hybrid, 100% vegan, and contains no added sugar, making it transparent and consumer-conscious.

Nosing

Clean and neutral nose
Gentle grain sweetness from wheat
Soft minerality

Tasting

Smooth, elegant mouthfeel
Subtle Vanilla sweetness with spicy bite and crisp dryness
Refined texture
Long, Medium finish with a silky character

Conclusion
So how is Cashmir Vodka?

At a price point of ₹1,800 – it competes with imported vodka brands while offering something distinctly Indian. Its story—the revival of Sona Moti Wheat, gives it authenticity and depth and for vodka lovers – it’s a spirit that can be tried once for sure.

Laphroaig Single Malt and Willem Dafoe Partner in Global Campaign

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Laphroaig Islay single malt, has announced its global partnership with actor, Willem Dafoe. The first of its kind in the distillery’s history, the campaign includes a short film titled ‘The Taste’, global advertising, a bespoke cocktail creation and tease of a limited-edition whisky.

The collaboration marks the latest instalment in the brand’s ‘Unphorgettable’ campaign, which was launched in 2024 and celebrates the unmistakable flavour of this whisky.

‘The Taste’ brings to life Dafoe’s search to define Laphroaig’s taste —something he can’t quite put his finger on. It draws inspiration from components in Dafoe’s life and his thirst for immersing himself to get a taste of experiences, including the attempt, as a child, to get a sense of flying to space by remaining in a wardrobe for two days. With this individual and curious style, Dafoe seeks the words to describe the bold single malt, and recites humorous descriptions submitted by some of the whisky’s biggest fans —Friends of Laphroaig.

The film and full campaign will be shared globally across channels, with a focus on digital and paid social. This will be reinforced with out of home, print, PR and in-store promotions in key markets, including the US, UK, Germany, Austria, Belgium, Japan, Australia and Global Travel Retail.

Chris Richardson, Managing Director of Suntory Global Spirits, Scotch and Irish, said, “Willem Dafoe is bold, curious, and impossible to define, much like Laphroaig itself. His uncompromising dedication to craft mirrors our own approach to whisky making. He is the ideal partner to bring to life the intense, unmistakable, and truly ‘unphorgettable’ flavour of Laphroaig, and to celebrate those around the world with character as distinctive as his.”

Speaking on the inspiration behind the film, Dafoe said, “The first time I ever travelled overseas, I went to Scotland. I was a kid, and the first thing I thought when my feet touched down on the ground was, something feels familiar here. I feel at home. The land spoke to me, and it must be genetic because my grandmother was from Glasgow. ‘The Taste’ depicts that sort of familiarity that’s found when exploring Laphroaig. It’s the flavours and how they come together.”

Laphroaig has also enlisted award-winning mixologist, Meaghan Dorman, to create a cocktail, named ‘The Other Island’. It blends Laphroaig 10-Year-Old, fresh pineapple, lemon, spiced cinnamon syrup and Amaro Ciociaro, with a touch of prosecco, to create a smoky, tropical and gently spiced spritz, balancing Laphroaig’s familiar character with layered flavours. The cocktail will be available first to guests at The Barley Mow pub in Mayfair, London, being renamed ‘The Barley Dafoe’ for campaign launch, before appearing on menus in additional select bars worldwide.

This Dafoe partnership will also extend to a limited-edition product collaboration, set for release in 2026. Together with Sarah Dowling, Senior Whisky Maker for Laphroaig, Dafoe has developed a limited-edition, that is quietly maturing, steeped in the peat, smoke, salt and the surprising sweetness that infuses all Laphroaig whiskies.

Moët Hennessy India Appoints Siddharth Suri as Managing Director

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Moët Hennessy India has appointed Siddharth Suri as its Managing Director for India. The appointment comes at time when Moët Hennessy India is looking at its journey to accelerates its growth ambitions and strengthens its leadership in the country’s rapidly evolving luxury wines and spirits market.

In his new role, Siddharth will be in-charge of the company’s portfolio in India, which includes Dom Pérignon, Moët & Chandon, Veuve Clicquot, Hennessy, Glenmorangie, Belvedere, Chandon and Volcan. He will be responsible for shaping the company’s long-term growth strategy, driving consumer-centric innovation, and deepening the cultural resonance of Moët Hennessy’s brands with India’s new generation of luxury consumers, whilst building on the company’s legacy of excellence and innovation. Siddharth has worked with Moët Hennessy India earlier as the Sales Director for India and South Asia (Domestic and Travel Retail).

Speaking on the new leadership appointment Anne Claire Delamarre, President, Asia Pacific, shared, “India is a market of immense potential, with a new generation of consumers embracing luxury, craftsmanship, and global experiences in unique ways. We are deeply committed to continuously expanding our presence here, and Siddharth’s appointment reflects that ambition. His strong leadership, proven track record, and deep understanding of both Moët Hennessy and the Indian consumer landscape make him ideally placed to lead our next phase of growth in this exciting market.”

Speaking on his appointment, Siddharth Suri said, “It is an honour to return to Moët Hennessy India at such an exciting inflection point. India is one of the most dynamic luxury markets in the world today, and I look forward to leading the transformation of the company into its next chapter of growth. By building stronger consumer engagement, customer connections, fostering innovation, and driving sustainable business practices, we will continue to set new benchmarks for Moët Hennessy in India.”

With over 24 years of extensive experience in the FMCG and Wines & Spirits industries, Siddharth brings proven expertise in business transformation, market development, and scaling high-performing teams across domestic, travel retail, and international markets. He has held senior leadership roles at PepsiCo, Pernod Ricard, Moët Hennessy, Diageo, and most recently The Coca-Cola Company (HCCB), where he pioneered the Ready-to-Drink (RTD) alcoholic beverages category in India, shaping an entirely new consumer segment.

Gifting Luxury Wine & Spirits, A New Trend

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The culture of gifting in Southeast Asia is evolving, and luxury wines and spirits are at the centre of this trend. Once seen mainly as status symbols, premium bottles are now chosen for their stories, craftsmanship, and cultural resonance. From Singapore to Vietnam, gifting is growing, driven by changing preferences, digital commerce, and premiumisation of F&B.

Affluent consumers are moving beyond imported classics to gifts that reflect local identity. Artisanal spirits such as Bali’s Iwak Arumery, Singapore’s Tanglin Gin, and Thailand’s Chalong Bay Rum showcase heritage-driven narratives through indigenous ingredients and traditional techniques. Similarly, the Philippines’ Don Papa rum draws on folklore and history to create an emotional bond.

Experiences Over Bottles

Packaging and presentation are increasingly as important as the liquid. Limited-edition bottles, collectible sets, and artistic collaborations elevate gifting, while immersive experiences with personalised labels and glassware turn a bottle into a celebration.

Festivals and milestones further drive demand. From Songkran in Thailand to Mid-Autumn Festival in Vietnam and weddings in Indonesia, luxury alcohol has become a prestigious part of celebrations. Corporate gifting, anniversaries, and personal milestones continue to be in vogue, often with bespoke sets.

E-commerce is fuelling the trend, offering curated packs, same-day delivery, and customisation such as engraved labels. The unboxing experience is now part of the value proposition, making online platforms vital for reaching affluent consumers in Singapore, Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Manila.

Sustainability Meets Premiumisation

Wealthier consumers are increasingly conscious of environmental and ethical practices. Eco-friendly packaging, sustainable sourcing, and transparent production are shaping gifting choices, blending luxury with conscience.

The luxury wine and spirits segment is poised for strong growth. Singapore continues to position itself as a regional hub, while Vietnam and Thailand are emerging as high-potential markets with expanding fine dining cultures. Even in traditionally conservative markets like Indonesia and Malaysia, discreet but premium gifting is gaining ground among urban elites.

Luxury gifting is no longer just about indulgence—it is about culture, story, and experience. With digital platforms enhancing accessibility, heritage brands adding authenticity, and sustainability guiding decisions, the future of gifting in Southeast Asia is premium, personalised, and meaningful.

Singapore: A Regional Hub for Premium Gifting
As Southeast Asia’s financial hub, Singapore leads the luxury wine and spirits market with a strong corporate gifting culture. Premium wines, rare whiskies, and collectible editions dominate, particularly during Lunar New Year. With advanced e-commerce and duty-free at Changi, personalisation and curated sets are driving demand. Prestige brands like Dom Pérignon, Hennessy, Macallan, and Glenfiddich are go-to gifting staples.

Thailand: Tradition Meets Celebration
Thailand’s festive calendar, especially Songkran and year-end corporate occasions, drives gifting. Rum and whisky lead, with Johnnie Walker Blue Label and Moët & Chandon popular among elites. Local craft spirit Chalong Bay rum adds authenticity and cultural depth.

Vietnam: Emerging Fine Wine Market
Vietnam is one of Asia’s fastest-growing wine markets, with Tet as the peak gifting season. French wines, especially Bordeaux and Burgundy, symbolise prestige, while Martell, Rémy Martin, and fine Cognacs remain staples. Younger professionals are also embracing alternatives like Don Papa rum for its storytelling appeal.

Indonesia & Malaysia: Discreet but Growing
In stricter markets, luxury gifting is discreet but aspirational. Weddings, corporate milestones, and private parties feature Johnnie Walker Blue, Royal Salute, Chivas Regal 25, and Macallan Rare Cask, often gifted in bespoke or limited editions.

With cultural collaborations, limited editions, and experiential packaging, luxury wines and spirits continue to shape Southeast Asia’s gifting culture—premium, personal, and meaningful.