Category Archives: events

Amrut Spectrum 004 Review

Amrut Spectrum 004 is a single malt whiskey from India that has been making waves in the international whiskey market. Amrut Spectrum 004 is also a limited edition single malt launched for Rs. 12,999. In this article, we will be reviewing the Amrut Spectrum 004. We will explore its flavour profile and discuss its unique characteristics that make it stand out among other whiskeys.

We have received the Spectrum 004 in a unique launch package and stands out as the world’s first single malt whisky aged in a multi-wood barrel. Unlike traditional single malt whiskies that are matured in casks made from a single type of oak, Spectrum was matured in a barrel made from staves of four different types of oak, earning it the name “004”.

Adding to the exclusivity of Spectrum is its limited release, with only 6600 bottles produced. Out of these, only 600 will be available in Bengaluru, with the remaining 6000 bottles set for sale across Europe, the USA, and the Asia-Pacific region. This rare availability only enhances the prestige of this one-of-a-kind single malt whisky.

Spectrum underwent a unique two-step maturation process. First, the new make spirit was matured in an ex-bourbon cask, then the aged spirit was transferred to a Spectrum cask, made from a combination of different types of oak: new American oak with char level 3, lightly toasted new French limousine oak, ex-oloroso sherry cask staves, and ex-PX sherry cask staves. This carefully crafted process results in a complex and layered whisky with a depth of flavour like no other.

We are thrilled with the recent experimentation and innovation in Indian whisky-making, and it is exciting to see brands like Amrut pushing the boundaries of what is possible. This marks an important moment in the industry, where there is a growing need for more ambitious and innovative brands to emerge. We believe that this will lead to a vibrant and diverse landscape of exceptional Indian whiskies, one that truly showcases the passion, creativity, and expertise of India’s distillers.

On the nose, Spectrum 004 exhibits a delicate blend of vanilla and coconut, with a subtle hint of toffee. On the palate, the whisky showcases a distinctive coconut flavour, with a bold hit of spice and a touch of sweet vanilla and toffee notes. The finish is smooth and long-lasting, with a lingering spice that lingers on the throat. This unique combination of flavours and aromas make Spectrum 004 a truly one-of-a-kind experience.

Conclusion

So what’s our take on Spectrum 004? We believe it’s truly unique, with a delicious blend of dried fruit, coconut, sweetness, and spiciness. It’s a prime example of the new wave of premium malts being produced in India, and with a limited edition of only 6,600 bottles, it’s definitely worth adding to your collection. Don’t miss out on this exceptional and rare whisky experience.

Epitome Reserve Whisky Review

In this video we review the limited edition Epitome Reserve Rare Grain Whisky that was launched recently by United Spirits, a Diageo Company. With only 2000 bottles made yet this is India’s first 100% Rice Grain whisky which celebrates India’s iconic people that have shaped the various landscapes and industries that they’ve been in.

The ABV percentage is 46% of this whisky and check out our Exclusive First Review of what we thought.

This video is for entertainment purpose only and the magazine, channel and the host do not promote alcohol consumption.

India’s Most Expensive Unknown Vodkas

In this video we take a look at India’s Most Expensive Unknown Vodka’s. Usually consumers always tend to pick vodkas that are more affordable or known to them. But did you know that there are Vodkas in a Super Premium Category as well which are more expensive?

So in this video we take a look at some of these Vodka’s and see how they taste. The ABV % of the Vodkas are 40% and they are available online select states.

This video is for entertainment purpose only and the magazine, channel and the host do not promote alcohol consumption.

A Paradise for all the whisky lovers: The Walt opens its doors to Mumbai

It was good food and good cocktails all the way.
From an interesting array of whisky to menu inspired from cuisines around the world- these are exciting times for all of whisky lovers. The Walt at The Park in Juhu is the newest addition to the food and cocktail scene of the city and here’s why you should head to this whisky bar. In a city where most people hang out in clubs and good bars are difficult to come by The Walt provides a comprehensive whisky offering and great food. This bar at the new hotel in Juhu houses a wide selection of whiskies and cocktails that will take you on an unforgettable experience.



To elevate the drinking experience, the place is beautifully designed to please your eyes with a vertiginous ceiling, plush seating and a statement art installation. The Walt is our dramatic whisky bar with a cosy alfresco patio. The menus has an interesting array of blends and signature cocktails, complimented by flavours from around the world. This space has been inspired by Walter, seafarer, musician and lover of things, who travelled the world collecting memories and tastes. The Walt is his special place reflecting his favourite flavours, drinks and music.

The offerings comprise some of the most interesting dishes from around the world, but of course, with a twist in the presentation. From the Classic Fish and Chips, Mac Pots, Tigela De Nachos, wide variety of Mini Pizzas to Lamb dazaz kofta tzatziki, Pao sliders, Bhujing style barbeque chicken skewers, Nakuni baida roti and Tandoori Piri Piri Prawns, the dishes are a perfect getaway take off culinary wonderland. The cocktails are all heady and uniquely mixed and wonderfully presented, making them oh-so-appealing and irresistible. Pick from Trader’s Mai Tai, Walter’s grog, Aloe Vera Margarita, Poached Pear Margarita, Emilia, Amti, Two Oceans Shiraz, Sake shots and Zuchitini among many others and raise your glass with these cocktails from around the globe.

Make a toast to one of man’s finest creations, with interesting array of blends and signature cocktails while you savour the flavours from around the world.

Romance the whiskies ever so gently, take a generous sip and, as the flavours open up, enjoy the stunning views. Located in the heart of Mumbai, we are sure that The Walt will soon be on the top of the list for whisky lovers.

The Butler and The Bayleaf scores with good food, ambience and service

When the name alone can set you on a journey of culinary delight steeped in history, you know there is much magic in store. Presenting a splendid collaboration of the royal hospitality of the British Raj, with the caress of a modern bistro style restaurant in the city- The Butler and The Bayleaf. Being veteran restaurateur Kishore DF’s ‘regional’ venture in collaboration with Sarabjeet Singh of Keer Hospitality, the restaurant brings forth Indian culture, once again- this time with a modern touch.



Kishore DF, of the Potpourri, WTF, The Big Nasty and Foo fame, has decided to take nostalgia a notch up with this new ambitious culinary ride, after the commendable success through The Tanjore Tiffin. Since then, he has been exploring the history of Indian geography from across the map and delving deep into the tastes of our voracious culture.

Situated right above the famous Alfredo’s, The Butler and The Bayleaf, drew its inspirations in the North. Representing a 100% authentic North Indian cuisine, Kishore emphasizes “At Butler, we never, NEVER mess with the authenticity. No fusion for us, no shortcuts. We just cleverly repurpose for the modern bistro chic audience.”

Rolling in the slumber filled lunches from their grandmother’s home, Butler presents a menu for the audience that is carefully crafted by renowned chef Rajan Mehra. Inheriting the magical culinary skills from his veteran chef father, Rajan comes with immense experience in the hospitality zone while he was at Delhi. He has now come down to explore Mumbai as food production head and brand for Butler.

Speaking of the menu, the arms of the North open up with the heart-filling Shrimp and Mango Salad and the Spicy Guava and Arugula Salad; followed by exotic small plates of the authentic Kurkuri Bhindi and the Royal style Chicken Noorani. Chole Bhaturas send us to another culinary realm, as the Seekh Kebab wraps brings a Northern blend. The Main dishes are a great reminder of the ‘ghar ka khana’ as they fill our plates and hearts with Guthi hui Gobi, Butler Butter Chicken and Punjabi fish tikka.

There is no North without the Biryanis- as the Butler serves us the luscious Chicken Dum Biryani and the taste bud tingling Kathal Dum Biryani. The Bakharkhani and the Khameeri Roti set a good standard for Indian breads. While the Croissant Pudding with Spicy Rum flavoured Angoori Mango Rabdi, is a blend of Indian and modern.

The Butler invites the audience a brilliant nostalgic sensation with a 4pm to 7pm old style high tea experience. Hosted over a piano recital or a book-reading or a game of mah-jong, this event accompanies your favourite beverage with the finger foods of the noon. Homecooks will also be invited to share their home-borne recipes, along with a presentation to cook it, serve it, as well as teach you how to make it.

Light conversations bloom near the piano, as the ambience gives an old British Gymkhana feel to the restaurant. The patio is a mix of chairs and sofas, bringing in a modern dining with a touch of casual. The presence of plants tends to keep an aura of fine dining with a dash of a friendly huddle, as well.

Meet the Eminent Jury of Teacher’s Golden Thistle Awards 2019

Bollywood Superstar Anil Kapoor, Cricketing Legends Harbhajan Singh and Krishnamachari Srikkanth, Dance Icon Geeta Chandran, Amongst Other Celebrities, Part of the Panel of Judges for the Awards

For the first time, superstars and celebrities from all walks of life – from Bollywood to Cricket, from India Inc. to F&B – came together to discuss, debate and short-list the nominees for the Teacher’s Golden Thistle Awards 2019. The winners will be announced on 16th November at an illustrious ceremony in Mumbai.

The iconic platform of Teacher’s Achievement Awards has celebrated the spirit of achievement since 2001 with an illustrious list of winners in the past including Ranbir Kapoor, Anupam Kher, Shabana Azmi, Boman Irani, Rahul Dravid, Abhinav Bindra, among others. The long-awaited awards are back in a refreshed avatar as Teacher’s Golden Thistle Awards to recognize and celebrate high-achievers with rare and exemplary achievements across seven categories: Business, Sports, Entertainment, Culture (Culinary Excellence), Genuine Impact (Growing for Good), Forever Genuine (Life Time Achievement) and Teacher’s GQ Special Award. To ensure a fair and thoroughly audited process, Pricewaterhouse Cooper (PwC) was appointed as the Process Validator.



The jury in-charge of making some tough decisions are as follows:



Acclaimed actor and producer, Anil Kapoor has a career that has spanned over 40 years! He is Bollywood royalty and actor par excellence who through discipline and hard work has managed to stay relevant and fit all these years.

A player with equal parts passion and talent, Harbhajan Singh is one of India’s most successful off-spin bowlers. He is a live wire on and off the field and is loved by audiences across the country.

Geeta Chandran is one of the most celebrated classical dancers in India and has been decorated with a Padma Shri, the fourth highest civilian award in the country, for her contributions to the field of art. The Bharatanatyam master has also trained a whole generation of artists.

Known as the Indiana Jones of Indian cricket, and rightly so, Krishnamachari Srikkanth is a former captain of the Indian cricket team and former chairman of the BCCI selection committee. His off-pitch personality matches his batting style – entertaining, innovative and explosive.

Manjit Gill is the man behind some of the most iconic restaurants of India – Bukhara and Dum Pukht – that have been delighting foodies for close to 30 years now. The highly acclaimed chef has over four decades of excellence in the culinary profession and has won numerous awards for his work.

While each one of us would have thought of starting a restaurant, some people actually do it and with such success as Farrokh Khambata. He wears many hats – an entrepreneur, restaurateur, chef and caterer – but he has dominated the world of food through his company ‘Catering & Allied’, which owns five restaurants in Mumbai apart from one of the best celebrity catering service.



D. Shiva Kumar is the Group Executive President of Corporate Strategy and Business at Aditya Birla Group. He is helmed as the leader who built Nokia as the most trusted brand in India at one point of time. Known for his inspirational leadership skills, D. Shiva Kumar was awarded ‘Distinguished Alumnus’ by IIT Madras and IIM Calcutta.

Handling finances is not everyone’s cup of tea but not for Nimesh Shah, Managing Director and CEO at ICICI Prudential AMC. With over 25 years in the banking and finance sector, he is known to provide the best solutions for investors while maintaining high levels of transparency.

Known as the man behind the largest events in India, Wiz Joseph Sabbas, Founder of Wizcraft, lends his strategic foresight for all major brand launches and corporate events in India.

LOFT by the CLOCK TOWER

Loft by the Clock Tower at 32nd Milestone Gurgaon opened its doors to the public in February, this year .It is for all those who love their beers with a side of exclusivity. With a wide range of global brews on tap and a carefully curated progressive menu set in eye-catching architecture, Loft aims to bring the Manhattan pub experience to life. Best described as a progressive microbrewery with a unique take on world beers, Loft is looking to redefine the region’s nightlife landscape.

The ambiance is heavily influenced by old fashioned meat-packing warehouses in Manhattan and New York, and with 5 sections spread over 12,000 square feet and 3 floors, the 300-cover drinkery is certain to cater to every need and whimsy of the demanding Gurgaon patrons The ambiance, will transport guests to the yesteryear bars of New York. From the vibrant Mad Hatter dance floor for those who love to party to the reflective Green terrace for corporate wine and dines, each corner has a one-of-a-kind theme to offer to create the perfect mood for any occasion with friends or colleagues The huge performing area with over 10 monthly gigs and some of the most prominent Delhi performers scheduled is also sure to attract the city’s music lovers. Most restaurants specialize either on food on their drinks, but the people behind Loft are clear that they want the best of both. “The food we serve is global cuisine with an Indian touch, which has been curated by Chefs Nishant Choubey and Tarun Sibal to bring this to life. The drinks and cocktails have been curated with support from Arijit Bose’s Bar Back Collective and the HT Hospitality,”said the Manager Operations.

“The food menu at Loft is an amalgamation of native and international flavours. At Loft, we have re-imagined classic dishes and made them our own along with celebrating an array of unusual combinations of flavours, textures and cooking technique,” he added. The menu at Loft by The Clock Tower is a multi-cuisine fiesta, with influences from across the globe craftily combined with Indian flavours and sensibilities to pander to the cosmopolitan palettes of 2019 Gurgaon. Guests may choose from a variety of sumptuous food offerings to pair their drink with – Malabar Quesadilla, Three Pepper Tofu, Wasabi Mushrooms, and Peanut Butter Paneer Tikkas among others. For the meat lovers, there are delicacies like  Kadahi Lamb Burgers, Banger and Mash Crostinis and Triple Cooked Pork.which provides a novel experience to anyone who walks in. Nitin Bhusan Prasad their operation head says, “Our beers are true to style and reflect a very Scottish, Irish, Hungarian and South-West Russia influenced beer portfolio. All the beers brewed at Loft are also true to style but with a slightly modern twist to it, for example, we brew a classical Belgian wheat beer, which has been infused with rose petals.” Loft’s bar menu is a delight for any beer lover. Rose Wheat American Lager, Oak chips infused Vienna Lager, Custom Blend Kaapi Stout and 5 spiced Saison make for a heady mixture of traditional brews with a twist and will keep the experiment-savvy public engaged.

Loft by the Clock Tower is the only microbrewery in 32nd Milestone, which has around 30 food establishments, which is one of its USPs.They have some fabulous live bands like Traffic Jam, to keep the evenings alive in a big way. And the DJs playing at Loft will certainly make the entire setup quite conducive for a fun evening out with friends and family. With so many corporates now located in and around the area, Loft gives people a place to party after work and relax with good food, drinks and music. A few years ago, the place would have seemed really far, one of the reasons why hotels and joints at this location didn’t do quite well. However, with the NCR expanding in a big way, 32nd Milestone has become a destination again due to great connectivity on the NH 8 and people willing to get into their dancing shoes after a hectic day of work.

The plans for expansions are huge and when asked, they said they are targetting to open two more 200 cover+ outlets by 2020.
– Lopamudra Ganguly

Invincible – Boudoir et Jardin – Mumbai’s First Boudoir resto-lounge opens in Bandra

The last decade has witnessed a turn of events, where women have come across bold and indomitable, who are in leading positions across the world. To only celebrate this change in our society, the bustling city of Mumbai will now witness the launch of a brand new resto-lounge Invincible -Boudoir et Jardin. Keeping true to its French roots and the term “boudoir” which translates to a private room for ladies, this resto-lounge offers an intimate and a lavish space to all the women out there!

Keeping the concept of a boudoir in mind, the owners, Anu Paul and Basab Paul have decided to bring a little of Parisian-inspired culture to Mumbai, by showcasing red-velvet backgrounds, gilded mirrors and antiques that boast the ever-lasting art and culture of France. The centre of attraction remains the wall painted in hues of blue and bright colours that signify a woman in her truest form, unbridled and unconquerable. Invincible- Boudoir et Jardin, chooses to be the place where a woman has the chance to be herself, simply be unapologetic of who she is.

Along with simply offering an indoor seating, Invincible- Boudoir et Jardin also boats a unique Champagne Garden for all the women who want to let down their hair and relax in this beautifully decorated space. Here, one can witness eloquently designed cabanas with, an exotic vertical garden that pleases the eye. This Champagne Garden is perfect for pre-dinners, drinks and even for Sundowners. “This concept has been on my mind for a while now. I wanted to create a space for women, where they can dominate and conquer. The optimal part about this place is, that all of our chefs, mixologist, stylist and supporting staff comprise of women, truly giving a voice to all the women out there. The idea is to make this resto-lounge a place where we make sure that women have a great time” says Basab Paul, Owner, Invincible. The very chic and feminine vibe of the boudoir, also translates into the menu, where the chefs- Shweta and Sunaeyaa showcase a bold and distinctive flair of various curated dishes. Further lined with beautiful rose gold foil, and printed in pleasing colours. The menu includes incredible cuisines such as Pan-Asian and European cuisine, a few of the highlights are dishes such as ‘Peanut Melange’, ‘Double Jeopardy’, ‘Pandan Infused Seafood Cake’, ‘Sous vide Pork Chilli’, ‘Roti Kanai with Seafood Kedgeree’, ‘Bailey’s parfait’ and ‘Tiramisu’, with an additional keto-menu.

Similar to the food menu, their drink menu curated by Mariki Sayles is lined up with ‘Limited Releases’, offering exotic mixtures such as ‘C’est la vie’ and ‘Str bck’ for when you want to go bold and experiment, ‘The comfort zone’, lists their home team of cocktails like the ‘Cosmopolitan’ and ‘Mojito’, ‘Up all night’ with  a series of ‘Perk-me-up’ and ‘No-regrets’ shots and ‘Early morning meeting’ when you’re trying to go through the day, sober, or just want to be in-check with reality. This resto-lounge, will also be introducing their bespoke edition of vodka called the ‘Invincible Vodka’.

Gifting Mumbai, this boudoir space, ‘Invincible- Boudoir et Jardin’ is now ready to conquer soft hearts and bold minds, opening this space for women and couples.

SHOR- Modern Indian Restaurant and Quarter Bar

Exactly opposite Santacruz police station is the two month old SHOR. It has a stylish ambience with rustic touches to make it warm and friendly and has a seating capacity of close to 45 people. The bar was well stocked with a wide range of cocktails and mocktails. Chota Bheem is their signature drink. Whisky, Kalakhatta, Chaat masala used in preparation of this drink.

For music there as the in-house system with a live DJ station and Karaoke after 10 P.m. This place has Bollywood nights every Thursday and also a Karaoke night once during the week. They do have valet parking service. Cheese and garlic naan bomb starter is a must try. Tiny naan discs served as starter with cheese and garlic stuffing had the right flavours. With dishes inspired from the western coast, the menu not only includes the names of the dishes, but also the place they are inspired from. Signatures include Khakhra from Gujarat, Tadka Hummus from South India, Amritsari Fish from Mangalore and Prawns Koliwada from Mumbai, find your tastebuds, taking a ride along the coast too. The grill section, includes the basics like, Cheese Seekh, Achari Aloo, Fish Tikka and Masala Prawns. The nouveau main course section has dishes like, Truffle Oil and Okra Khichadi, Chicken Gassi, and Goan Fish Curry and Rice. SHOR promises you endless stories and binging sessions over the course of its journey. With a menu that is carefully hand-picked and curated which is juxtaposed with music, this place is sure to win your heart.

Flavours of Punjab only at Four Points by Sheraton, Navi Mumbai

Tucked away close to Vashi station is Asian Kitchen at Four Points by Sheraton. The place for all kinds of food. The ambience gives you a feeling of space which is laced with some live music. For cricket lovers the TV screens show the IPL matches.

India is a country of diverse cultural heritage and as Indians, we love to savour this diversity indistinct with mouth-watering cuisines from all parts of the country.

One such popular and delectable cuisine hails from the joyful state of Punjab, commonly referred to as “North-Indian food”. This Vaisakhi, the vibrant flavors from Punjab were on display at the Asian Kitchen at Four Points by Sheraton. With their irresistible buffet menu serving a great variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian treats like Murgh Dhaniya ka Shorba, Sarson da saag Makki de roti gud Makhan, Dudiya Paneer Tikka, Rara Gosht, Subz Pulao and an extensive salad bar, dessert as well as beverage list, experience the magic of authentic Punjabi cordon bleu unfold in your fingers.

The festival was open from 15th- 28th April 2019 from 7.30 pm to 11.30. Patrons could enjoy both Buffet and A la Carte. Prices were Rs.1450 + taxes per person.