Category Archives: news

ABD Launches Golden Mist French Brandy

Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD), India’s 3rd largest spirits company by volume, has launched Golden Mist French Brandy in Karnataka. With this introduction, ABD marks its entry into the fast-growing prestige brandy segment.

Golden Mist combines French craftsmanship with Indian expertise to deliver a smooth and rich blend. As part of the ABD portfolio, Golden Mist strengthens the company’s non-whisky premium offerings, reinforcing its commitment to diversifying and elevating its overall product range.

The prestige brandy segment in Karnataka is growing at 13.1%, significantly outpacing the overall brandy category’s high single-digit growth. Golden Mist enters the market at a time when consumers are actively seeking authentic, high-quality offerings in the mid-premium range.

Golden Mist is crafted for today’s discerning consumers who seek tradition with sophistication and elevated taste experiences. Aged in French oak casks for a crafted feel, the brandy offers a deep amber colour, a smooth and luxurious texture, and a flavour profile that balances grape notes with hints of liquorice, honey, and subtle spice.

The brand also introduces a distinctive packaging innovation with its 180 ml Hippy pack, making it the only brand in its segment to offer this option alongside traditional glass bottles. The Hippy pack, designed in an elegant gold colour, recognises the deep connect with southern culture and enhances Golden Mist’s position as a standout offering in the prestige brandy segment.

Alok Gupta, Managing Director of Allied Blenders and Distillers, said, “Golden Mist represents everything the evolving Indian consumer is asking for; heritage, authenticity, and a superior taste experience, all delivered at an attractive price. We’ve drawn from traditional French brandy-making methods while crafting a product that resonates with Indian palates. This launch is in line with the organisational aim of bolstering our presence in the Prestige and Above segment.”

Golden Mist is available across Karnataka in four different pack sizes. The 750 ml bottle is priced at ₹970, the 375 ml at ₹485, the 180 ml at ₹235 (available in both a glass bottle and the unique Hippy pack), and the 90 ml at ₹120.

ISWAI Commends State Governments for Implementing Progressive Excise Policies

Leave a reply

Move will provide enhanced consumer experience and generate revenue opportunities
Premium-only and Smart Liquor Stores in Karnataka, Telangana, Haryana
Industry seeks De-regulation

The International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI), voice of the Indian Premium alcoholic beverage industry, has commended State governments for implementing progressive excise policies aimed at modernising retail formats, increasing revenue, and enhancing the overall consumer experience.

From Uttar Pradesh’s composite retail formats to Andhra Pradesh’s privatised model, Rajasthan’s premium mall-based stores, Madhya Pradesh’s single-bottle billing system, Haryana, Telangana, Karnataka, and Odisha’s premium-only retail formats, these progressive policies are redefining how the alcohol retail ecosystem operates across the country.

Welcoming the positive change, Sanjit Padhi, CEO of the International Spirits and Wines Association of India (ISWAI), said, “The reforms we are witnessing across different states in India, signal a paradigm shift in how the alcobev sector is perceived and managed, and reflects the state governments positive intent and commitment. Progressive excise policies are not only improving compliance and transparency, but also creating the foundation for sustainable, consumer-centric growth.”

UP’s reform-centric excise policy

ISWAI said at the forefront of this transformation is Uttar Pradesh, which has launched a reform-centric excise policy for FY 2025–26 with an ambitious revenue target of ₹55,000 crore, a 10% increase over the previous year. Structural changes like consolidating over 12,000 outlets into approximately 9,000 composite vends are doubling retail accessibility and ensuring broader market coverage. The adoption of a digital e-lottery system for retail licenses has already generated more than ₹2,250 crore, while retail license fees are expected to contribute over ₹4,200 crore, a testament to how digitization and transparency can directly drive state revenues.

Excise reforms are reshaping the alcobev landscape.

Speaking on these forward-looking changes, Sanjit Padhi said, “Uttar Pradesh has been a leader in driving structural reforms that have seen its revenue jump from ₹24,000 crore in FY 18/19 to a target of ₹55,000 crore in FY 25/26, growing at a rate of 13% CAGR. ISWAI members are the largest contributors to the state’s IMFL revenue (55%+), and we believe that the current changes are part of building a sustainable, growth-oriented revenue model that is also consumer-centric. The new outlets and investments in the retail infrastructure will result in a superior consumer experience.”

The reforms also offer greater operational stability for vendors. The state now grants two-year licenses via the e-lottery system, promotes fair competition by capping ownership at two outlets per individual, and fosters a level playing field for stakeholders.

Uttar Pradesh’s focus on premiumisation is reshaping consumer expectations and retail standards. New composite vends are being upgraded into well-lit, aesthetic, and secure outlets, particularly appealing to women consumers and supporting responsible consumption.

“We’re witnessing the rise of a more inclusive, modern alcobev ecosystem. From premium retail formats to safer consumer environments, these changes are aligning with global best practices and unlocking new growth opportunities. This will also provide consumers with high-quality premium brands and genuine products, deterring counterfeit products and encouraging responsible drinking. We hope that other states adopt the best practices of these progressive states to build consumer-centric, growth-oriented, sustainable revenue models,” added Sanjit Padhi.

Innovative Approaches by Andhra Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh

Some states are following suit with their innovative approaches. Andhra Pradesh, through its privatised retail model, now supports 3,736 liquor vends and has witnessed a ₹1,800 crore surge in revenues and a 37% rise in Scotch sales, indicating strong premiumisation trends. Rajasthan has declared a four-year excise policy – a landmark reform that ensures stability in the sector. Speaking on this, Sanjit Padhi said, “The industry needs business stability as it allows room for building long-term investment plans. Rajasthan has taken this step, which we hope will inspire many other progressive states to evaluate and build this into their future planning process.”

The state of Rajasthan has already seen a 55% increase in IMFL sales since FY 2021, thanks to a retail overhaul that includes premium outlets at airports and shopping malls. States like Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan are also experiencing significant volume growth—27% and 55% respectively—by embracing composite retail formats that ensure equitable access across urban and rural areas while reducing the prevalence of illicit trade and counterfeit products. Madhya Pradesh’s 2025–26 policy has also introduced features like stock carry-forward and single-bottle billing for premium brands, enhancing traceability and efficiency.

Premium-only and Smart Liquor Stores in other States

Similarly, Uttarakhand is launching Smart Liquor Stores in malls and department outlets, while Haryana, Telangana, Karnataka, and Odisha are promoting premium-only retail formats to meet rising urban demand.

Industry seeks Deregulation

Meanwhile, one of the biggest challenges the industry faces is pricing control. In this context, Sanjit Padhi emphasised the need for deregulation in the IMFL sector. “Market forces should determine pricing, and no company will risk its business by arbitrarily pricing itself out of the market,” he said. ISWAI strongly recommends the removal of pricing controls to liberate and unshackle the industry, encouraging greater investment and more robust contributions to state revenues.

In addition, leading states like Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal and UP have digitized their processes and significantly improved the ease of doing business. This is another area where other states can consider increasing efficiencies, which could lead to better resource utilisation.

As more states look to emulate these successful models, India’s alcobev landscape will continue to evolve into a refined, progressive ecosystem that balances public welfare, economic growth, and consumer preferences, marking a significant milestone for the industry.

ISWAI members largest revenue contributors

Members of ISWAI include global leaders Bacardi, Brown Forman, Campari Group, Diageo-United Spirits, John Distilleries, Moet Hennessy, Pernod Ricard, Suntory Global and William Grant & Sons and have almost 98% of the business produced in India through Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL), Bottled-in-India (BII) products and Indian Single Malts, thereby making the sector strong proponents of the ‘Make in India’ ideology, generating employment and business opportunities, both directly and in ancillary services & industries, across states. ISWAI members are the largest revenue contributors, with over 45% share in volume and more than 55% share in value. With over 95 manufacturing plants in the country, ISWAI members have large investments in India.

Khukri, Nepal’s Award-Winning Iconic Rum, Makes Its Grand Entry into India

Leave a reply

MCKT Beverages Pvt. Ltd. Recently announced the arrival of its internationally acclaimed Khukri Rum in India—an icon of heritage and craftsmanship, set to redefine the premium spirits landscape. Produced by Nepal’s first distillery, and revered as the rum from the top of the world, Khukri carries over 65 years of Himalayan legacy. This celebrated spirit embodies the pinnacle of Nepalese rum-making tradition, offering authentic and timeless flavour profiles that seamlessly blend tradition with innovation. With its entry into India, Khukri Rum not only expands its global footprint, but also reinforces MCKT’s vision to elevate the Indian spirits market by offering superior quality products.

The current variants launching in the Indian market include three premium expressions, each thoughtfully crafted to cater to diverse palates and preferences. Khukri XXX Rum offers a bold, dark blend with earthy undertones and a smooth, long caramel finish. It carries the notes of toffee, vanilla, and prune, with a rich taste of honey complemented by hints of Himalayan herbs and fruits. Khukri Spiced Rum is a tasteful concoction of assorted spices enriched with dry fruits, delivering a warm, subtly sweet taste that ends with a smooth, long finish. Infused with cardamom, ginger, and hints of toffee, its flavour unfolds into woody cinnamon notes enriched with dry fruits. Khukri White Rum presents delicate tropical notes and a creamy character, meticulously charcoal-filtered for exceptional smoothness. It delivers a crisp, clean finish, making it perfect for refined cocktails and refreshing serves.

Each expression in the Khukri collection tells a unique story of Himalayan heritage while upholding the exceptional quality that has earned the brand global acclaim. Khukri Rum has been recognised with prestigious awards, including the Bronze Award at the 2024 International Wine and Spirit Competition, Silver at the 2004 World Selection of Spirits & Liqueurs, and Gold at the International Rum Festival, among many others.

Crafted with passion and precision, Khukri Rum is made from the finest Nepalese sugarcane and distilled with pristine Himalayan waters. It is the only rum aged in Shorea Robusta casks, a unique feature that enhances its depth and character. Traditional open-flame caramelisation adds richness, while high-altitude aging in cool mountain temperatures allows for a slower, more refined maturation. Select batches, some aged for over 45 years, are expertly blended with younger rums to create a spirit of exceptional complexity and smoothness.

For centuries, alcohol has been central to Nepalese culture, deeply rooted in traditions and celebrations. Passed down through generations, the craft of brewing preserves heritage while embracing innovation, elevating Nepal’s spirits industry with world-class craftsmanship. A testament to this legacy, Khukri Rum draws inspiration from the legendary Gurkhas and the precision of the Khukuri knife. Distilled in the pristine Himalayan foothills using pure Himalayan waters, Khukri Rum exemplifies the purity, tradition, and indomitable spirit of Nepal.

Harsh Sinha, Country Director – India, MCKT Beverages Pvt. Ltd. said, “We are thrilled to introduce Khukri Rum to Indian consumers, marking a pivotal moment in our journey. With a rich legacy dating back to 1959, Khukri Rum embodies the finest craftsmanship, heritage, and quality. India’s growing appreciation for premium spirits makes this an opportune time to bring our iconic blend to this dynamic market. This expansion is a strategic step in our commitment to sharing Nepal’s proud distilling tradition with a discerning audience, and we look forward to establishing Khukri as a preferred choice among connoisseurs.”

Now available in Uttar Pradesh, Goa and Maharashtra, Khukri is set to expand further across India. Already established in key global markets like the USA, UK, Japan, Italy, Australia, and the UAE, it continues to build on its rich legacy by offering a premium convivial experience while setting a new benchmark for rum enthusiasts nationwide.

Pernod Ricard’s Resilient Performance

Leave a reply

Q3 fy25 organic net sales decline -3% (-3% reported)
YTD organic net sales decline -4% (-5% reported)

Pernod Ricard has reported a resilient net sales performance in a global macroeconomic and geopolitical environment which remains challenging and very fluid with regards to tariffs. The quarterly sales are impacted by some phasing technicalities that will reverse in Q4: namely in India, the impact of new customs clearance procedures and temporary production interruption in one major state, which is now resolved; in Global Travel Retail, a very high comparison base; and in some markets, the impact of the later Easter.

Pernod Ricard said the balanced and broad-based geographic breadth and its diversified portfolio remain key in mitigating some of the impacts caused by the challenging environment. The company said it is continuously adapting its resources with agility, deploying its operational efficiencies and steering the organisation to fuel future growth and optimising cash generation.

The FY25 Q3 Net Sales was €2,278m an organic decline of -3%, and -3% reported. The FY25 9 months Net Sales was €8,454m, an organic decline of -4% and -5% reported, with unfavourable Foreign Exchange impact of -€145m, and a favourable Group Structure of +€3m. The three quarter volumes grew by +1%, while price/mix effect declined by -5% driven by a strongly negative market mix, it said.

By regions, (Q3/YTD) – Americas +3% / -2%; USA +2% / -5%

Pernod Ricard said that the US Spirits market remains broadly stable. The Q3 Organic Net Sales are ahead of sell-out supported by wholesalers’ orders ahead of tariff announcements. The company’s ongoing focus on execution is illustrated by a steadily improving Sell-Out gap to market, on both volume and value. It reported improving performances on Jameson, Absolut, notably boosted by the success of Absolut Ocean Spray RTD and Kahlua.

It mentioned that Canada had strong growth YTD, driven by Bumbu, Absolut and Jameson and Brazil also showed continued solid momentum in Q3, with growth for Ballantine’s, Absolut and Chivas Regal.

Europe -7% / -3%

In France, the company registered solid growth YTD, driven by Ballantine’s, while in Spain it was soft performance, impacted by the later Easter timing. In Germany there was decline in an ongoing challenged macroeconomic context and lapping a high comparable basis. In Poland the performance was broadly stable YTD.

India +1% / +5%

Pernod Ricard reported dynamic growth YTD with strong underlying market demand and continuing premiumisation trends in Asia. It said there was a softer Q3 sales, impacted by phasing technicalities, due in part to the implementation of new customs clearance procedures affecting sales of imported Spirits, and a temporary production interruption in a major state which is now resolved. It said there has been ongoing strong growth of Jameson, and good performance of Ballantine’s and Royal Salute. Similarly, the company said there has been good growth on Seagram’s whiskies, notably Royal Stag. The strong momentum was expected in Q4, including catch-up from Q3.

China -5% / -22%

The release said that in China the macro context remains challenging. The company registered a sharp decline on Martell, while experiencing very strong ongoing growth on Absolut, Olmeca and Jameson. It said that as expected, Chinese Yuan was very soft and Q3 sales benefitted from cycling a favourable comparison basis. The price increase of mid-single-digit for Martell was taken in February.

In Japan there was strong momentum YTD, with Perrier-Jouet in double-digit growth while Korea continuing weakness in an environment of political disruption.

Global Travel Retail -31% / -17%

The company said that on expected lines, there was sharp decline driven by suspension of the duty-free regime on Cognac in China Travel Retail, compounded with a high comparison basis in Q3. However, there was continued growth in Europe and the Americas, driven by good travellers’ numbers and growth from cruises.

By brands:

The Strategic International Brands showed -4% / -6%, while there was YTD good growth for Jameson, Chivas Regal, Ballantine’s and Absolut, declines on Martell and Royal Salute. The Strategic Local Brands -5% / experienced flat, solid growth for Seagram’s whiskies, Olmeca and Kahlua and Specialty Brands reported -8% / -6%, with double-digit growth of Bumbu, good growth on Skrewball, soft performance for Aberlour.

FY25 Outlook
Pernod Ricard said, “In a context that remains very volatile, we are confirming our FY25 outlook of low-single-digit decline in Organic Net Sales while sustaining our Organic Operating Margin, supported by our programme of continuous operational efficiencies. This outlook incorporates the impact of expected tariffs in China and in the US based on the information we have today.
A&P will be maintained at c.16% of Net Sales and strict discipline applied to structure costs.
Maximising cash generation remains a core focus for the group. Negative FX impact on PRO for the full year is expected to be broadly similar to H1.”

Piccadily launches Indri Founder’s Reserve single malt whisky, tribute to Kidar Nath Sharma

Leave a reply

Piccadily Agro Industries Ltd, the parent company of India’s fastest-growing single malt whisky brand, Indri, has unveiled its latest creation: Indri Founder’s Reserve 11-Year-Old Single Malt. This new offering is dedicated to the group’s founder, Pt. Kidar Nath Sharma, as a tribute to his legacy.

Aged for 11 years in Ex-Bordeaux Red Wine Casks, this offering is a limited-edition release with only 1,100 bottles available worldwide, of which 550 will be for the Indian market. The company said the release is both a collector’s treasure and a connoisseur’s delight. The limited-edition single malt is priced at ₹35,000 in Gurugram.

The oak barrels so used are the ones that were previously used to age red wine from the Bordeaux region of France and are now repurposed for aging whisky. The whisky will have a 50% alcohol by volume (ABV) for India and 58.5% ABV for international markets.

The whisky is kept at its distillery located in Haryana under extreme climate conditions throughout the year, accelerating the whisky’s maturation, creating an opulent, full-bodied expression that exudes complexity and depth unique to the region’s terroir.

“Indri Founder’s Reserve 11-Year-Old single malt is a symbol of India’s ascension in the world of fine single malt whisky. Aged to perfection and crafted with care, this expression embodies the essence of our founder’s dream: to create world-class Indian single malt whisky with soul, structure, and enduring quality,” said Shalini Sharma, Head of Marketing, Piccadily Agro Industries Limited, in a statement.

“The deep amber liquid offers an aromatic bouquet of dark fruits and warm spices that open into a palate of caramelised nuts, and velvety vanilla, concluding with an indulgent finish of oak and wine-influenced sweetness,” the group said in a statement.

The Founder’s Reserve 11-Year-Old single malt whisky has garnered several prestigious global accolades, including the Gold Award at the 2025 World Whisky Awards in the Single Malts 12 Years & Under category, a spot among the top 15 whiskies in the world at the International Whisky Competition, and a Gold Medal at the New York World Wine & Spirits Competition, among other notable honours.

Carlsberg India profits up by 60%

Leave a reply

Carlsberg India has reported a jump of 60.5% in its profits at ₹323.1 crore in FY’24, according to RoC filing by the company. Carlsberg India total revenue was up 15.2% at ₹8,044.9 crore for the financial year ended March 31, 2024.

The company said, “During the financial year 2023-24, profit amounting to ₹323 crore under the standalone financial statement has been carried forward to ‘Reserve and Surplus’ including other comprehensive income in the balance sheet.”

Carlsberg India Pvt Ltd had reported a total profit of ₹201.3 crore a year before in FY’23, and its revenue from operations was at ₹6,937 crore on a standalone basis. Its “Excise duty expense” in FY’24 was at ₹4,877.8 crore, up 13.4%. This was at ₹4,301.6 crore a year before in FY’23.

“Cash and bank balances increased from ₹9,304 million to ₹11,165 million with strong business performance, better trade working capital and lower capital investment,” it said. Advertising promotional expenses of Carlsberg India were at ₹96.5 crore in FY’24 and total expenses stood at ₹7,628.3 crore, up 13.4%.

The market share however declined to 13.3%, from 14.9% in the fiscal year 2023-24, but Carlsberg India continues to hold the number three position in the Indian beer market. Carlsberg India is the subsidiary of Singapore-based South Asian Breweries Pte Ltd, owned by Danish brewing major Carlsberg.

Delhi Earned ₹5,000 Crore from Tax On Liquor

Leave a reply

The newly elected Delhi government run by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has said that due to the implementation of the new liquor policy under the AAP from November 2021 to August 2022, only private shops were allowed to sell alcohol. It said that over ₹5,000 crore was collected from taxes on liquor in the current financial year.

Responding to a question asked by BJP MLA Abhay Verma in the Delhi Assembly, the government said it earned revenue of ₹5,068.92 crore from excise duty and VAT (value added tax) on the sale of liquor in the financial year 2024-25, till February.

The question comes at a time when the BJP has continued to attack the AAP over the alleged liquor policy scam. Former chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and his deputy Manish Sisodia were among the AAP leaders who were jailed in connection with the alleged scam.

The new Rekha Gupta-led BJP government reported that ₹5,164 crore was collected in taxes on alcohol in 2023-24, ₹5,547 crore in 2022-23 and ₹5,487 crore in 2021-22. The government stated that due to the implementation of the new liquor policy in Delhi under the AAP from November 2021 to August 2022, only private shops were allowed to sell alcohol. However, when the old liquor policy was reimplemented in September 2022, government liquor stores were permitted to operate.

In 2023-24, 21.27 crore litres of alcohol were sold in Delhi, which translates to 5.82 lakh litres per day, while the figure for 2022-23 was 25.84 crore litres.

Shah Rukh Khan’s D’YAVOL Inception Wins Gold at Berlin

Leave a reply

D’YAVOL Inception, the flagship blended malt Scotch whisky from D’YAVOL Luxury Spirits, has been awarded Gold at the prestigious Berlin International Spirits Competition (BISC) 2025. The Berlin International Spirits Competition stands out as the only European spirits competition judged exclusively by trade buyers, including sommeliers, beverage directors, and retail experts from across the continent. Spirits, RTDs, and non-alcoholic spirits are evaluated based on category and actual price, ensuring a real-world assessment of quality and value.

Shah Rukh Khan, Co-Founder, D’YAVOL, says, “Consistent recognitions like these fuels our drive to keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards. It’s always rewarding to see our efforts acknowledged on a global stage.”

Inception is a blend of eight rare single malts, selected from Scotland’s whisky regions — Speyside, Highland, Lowland, and the Islands. Aged up to 12 years, Inception undergoes an extended maturation in first-fill Tawny Port and rare Madeira casks, adding layers of depth and richness.

Launched in 2023, this non-chill filtered whisky preserves its full depth of flavour, mouthfeel, and character. Its complex profile unfolds with rich notes of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and oak spice, complemented by subtle hints of smoked wood, ripe plums, spiced vanilla, and a gentle smokiness.

Bunty Singh, Co-Founder, D’YAVOL, says, “Winning multiple international awards including ‘Best Overall Scotch’ at the New York World Spirits Competition and now a gold medal at the Berlin International Spirits Competition 2025 is an incredible honour. These back-to-back wins reaffirm our commitment to crafting spirits that stand out on the world stage.”

Alongside Inception’s Gold medal at BISC 2025, the brand’s Single Estate Vodka was also awarded a Silver Medal.

PVR Inox Seeks License to Serve Alcohol in Gurugram and Bengaluru theatres

Leave a reply

A media report has stated that PVR Inox, dominant player in the entertainment business, has sought licenses to serve alcohol in theatre lounges in select markets such as Gurugram and Bengaluru, to attract audiences back to theatres. With the OTT platform making people watch movies at home, the footfalls at theatres have seen a downward swing. Besides, many big star movies have failed in the recent past, affecting the theatre business.

The proposal has resulted in a public debate with many raising concerns of allowing liquor in theatre lounges, ranging from discomfort to other movie goers to unruly behaviour to women’s safety and even how liquor can be allowed where kids below the legal drinking age maybe hanging out. There is as such a growing dissent among movie goers that the theatre experience is an expensive affair with prices of ticket and food and beverages is extremely high.

PVR Inox’s explanation is that it would enhance the customer experience in the lounges. It is trying its best to shore up revenues, even by re-releasing classics and major hits of the past, but that has not really enthused the audience to coming back to theatres.

It must be mentioned that in the recent Karnataka Budget, the Chief Minister, Siddaramaiah had said that the cost of the tickets in all theatres of the state, including multiplexes here, will be capped at ₹200. If this happens, then the multiplexes which have invested heavily would be further affected.

PVR Inox’s stock has dropped 60% from its peak due to underwhelming box office performance and market corrections.

GIFT City Earns nearly 1 cr from liquor sales

Leave a reply

The Gujarat government has earned ₹94.19 lakh in revenue from the sale of liquor to employees working at Gandhinagar-based Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City) where alcohol consumption has been permitted since December 30, 2023.

The Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, who also holds the Prohibition and Excise portfolio, told the Gujarat Assembly in a written reply to a question by Congress MLA Amit Chavda that as of January 31, 2025 people have consumed 3,324 bulk litre spirit, 470 bulk litre wine, and 19,915 bulk litre beer at the fintech hub. Gujarat is a “dry” state where manufacture, sale, and consumption of liquor are prohibited, but the government made an exemption for GIFT City in 2023.