Tag Archives: Ambrosia

Featuring impactful reads like:

• ISAWI takes Maharashtra to court over policy discrimination and tax hike

• Can American whiskey muscle into a Scotch-loyal market?

• Telangana government silence on unpaid dues to alcobev companies, crisis deepens

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Stars are lining up

What began with Sanjay Dutt entering the alcobev industry with The Glenwalk Blended Scotch has quickly escalated into a full-throttle wave of Bollywood stars and cricketers stepping into the space. In recent months, Ranveer Singh, Badshah
and Rana Dagabuthi have also expanded their entrepreneurial pursuits, launching beverages crafted around their favourite tipples with Vivek Oberoi and Yuvraj Singh set to enter the market as well.

But even as Bollywood’s big names make their presence felt, the homegrown market is undergoing its own transition. With an increasing number of States pushing to promote local products, ISWAI has taken the Maharashtra Government to court over its recently introduced Maharashtra Made Liquor (MML) over Policy Discrimination and Tax Hike. We’ve covered
the issue in depth in this edition, outlining the petition, its implications, and the industry’s major pain points.
Meanwhile, as both international and domestic players navigate challenges in Maharashtra, the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) is optimistic. The India–UK FTA promises a tariff reduction on Scotch imports to 75% starting 2026. In an exclusive
conversation with Mark Kent, Chief Executive of the SWA, we explore the opportunities unlocked by this landmark agreement and what it could mean for the industry’s future. And while Scotch continues to dominate India’s whisky landscape, Bourbons and American spirits are gearing up for a stronger push into the market. Though they don’t yet
enjoy the popularity of Scotch, DISCUS CEO Chris Swonger hopes to change that trajectory in the coming years. Tasked with championing American spirits globally, he tells us why it’s time for India to “Set Whiskey Free”.

Despite India being a high-priority market for nearly every global manufacturer, worldwide consumption volumes have dipped by 1% – a decline largely driven by the US and China. We’ve analysed this trend in a detailed report within this issue. All in all, this edition brings you a sharp, well-rounded and insightful look into the alcobev world – packed with developments, perspectives, and data that matter.

Molson Coors Beverage names Rahul Goyal as President and Chief Executive Officer

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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.

Sanjay Dutt’s The Glenwalk Records Sale of a Million in 4 months

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The Glenwalk, co-founded by Sanjay Dutt, has reported strong sales. The company sold over one million bottles in India between April and August 2025. This represents a five-fold increase from the previous year. The brand is available in 15 Indian states and four international markets.

The Glenwalk’s success has been driven by Cartel Bros’ co-founders Mokksh Sani, Jitin Merani, Rohan Nihalani, and Manish Sani, whose innovative strategies have propelled the brand’s remarkable trajectory. The Glenwalk plans to launch new products and expand into more markets

The company said in a statement that the figure represents a five-fold increase from 0.2 million bottles during the same period last year. The brand is currently available in 15 states including Maharashtra, Haryana, Delhi, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and has expanded its presence to four international markets including Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the UAE. It is stocked across more than 10,000 retail and bar outlets and featured in 24 duty-free stores globally. In Meghalaya, where it was recently launched, the brand is priced at ₹1,708 and targets sales of 8,000 cases in the first year

“Witnessing The Glenwalk’s meteoric rise in such a short span has been genuinely inspiring. We’ve achieved in two years what takes many brands decades. Our success is a testament to the team’s relentless effort and the high-quality product we offer, and I’m excited for this next phase of growth,” said Sanjay Dutt, co-founder and brand ambassador. The Glenwalk has received over 10 global whisky awards and four business recognitions. It plans to introduce two new expressions – a 5-Year-Old and a 7-Year-Old and expand into six more Indian states and five overseas markets, including the US, Hong Kong, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Africa.

The Glenwalk is now available in Meghalaya. The brand has expanded across 15 Indian states, including Maharashtra, Haryana, Delhi, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu. Internationally, it is present in Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the UAE, available at over 10,000 retail and bar outlets, and featured in over 24 duty-free stores worldwide.

“The Glenwalk’s journey has been phenomenal, and our success is a direct result of our strategic vision and the immense market potential we identified,” said Mokksh Sani, Founder of Living Liquidz, Mansionz, and Co-founder of Cartel Bros. Sanjay Dutt, celebrity brand ambassador and co-founder, added, “Witnessing The Glenwalk’s meteoric rise in such a short span has been genuinely inspiring. Our success is a testament to the team’s relentless effort and the high-quality product we offer.”

Hunter Achieves 7 Crore Bottles Average Yearly Sales

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Hunter Beer, the flagship brand of SOM Group of Companies, has achieved two milestones this year – celebrating 25 years and registering average yearly sales of 7 crore bottles. Hunter Beer is known for its smooth yet strong taste and unapologetically confident identity, representing India’s new-agenbeer drinker: bold, ambitious, and ready for the next big moment.
First launched in 1994 and repackaged in 2016, Hunter operates in the mainstream strong segment (MSS), competing with category leaders. Hunter’s presence spans over multiple states across India, including key markets like Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Delhi, Karnataka, and Jharkhand.
“World Beer Day isn’t just about beer- it’s about the stories we create with every sip,” said Deepak Arora, CEO, SOM Group of Companies. “Hunter Beer has become a part of those stories- from late- night rooftop conversations to weekend getaways with friends. It’s a celebration of bold flavour and fearless living. With annual sales crossing 7 Crore bottles now, Hunter has built a loyal consumer base across metros and rising Tier-II cities. Its success is rooted in uncompromised quality, vibrant branding, and an iconic flavour profile that speaks directly to India’s bold, independent generation.”
SOM Group of Companies offers a diverse portfolio of premium beers, spirits, and ready-to-drink products. Headquartered in Bhopal, the company has a strong presence across multiple states and exports to several international markets. Its flagship brands are Mahavat Whisky, Bhimbetka Single Malt, and popular beer brands are Hunter, Woodpecker, Power Cool & Black Fort.

Toki Whisky and Yamazaki 12-Year-Old wins awards

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Suntory Whisky Toki receives its First Gold
Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo recognized as ‘Master Blender of the Year’ for the first time

Suntory Spirits – Toki and Yamazaki Whisky’s recently have been recognized at the International Spirits Challenge 2024 Awards in London. Toki Suntory Whisky was awarded the Gold in the Tasting Awards – Japanese Whisky category while the Suntory Single Malt Whisky Yamazaki 12 Years Old was awarded the Supreme Champion Spirit. Suntory’s Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo was also awarded the ‘Master Blender of the Year’ for the first time at the awards.

Toki Suntory Whisky was awarded the Gold in the Tasting Awards – Japanese Whisky category

This esteemed recognition reaffirms yet another significant achievement among for these products. Toki Whisky has earned over 20 international awards while Yamazaki 12 Years Old award to the highest scoring Trophy winner of the competition, the top award in the Japanese Whisky category, and was also selected as the most outstanding product out of thousands of entries among all categories.

Suntory’s Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo was also awarded the ‘Master Blender of the Year’ for the first time at the awards

This marks the first time that Yamazaki 12 Years Old has been awarded as the Supreme Champion Spirit and the second consecutive year for a Suntory Whisky brand to achieve this accolade following Yamazaki 25 Years Old last year.

These recognitions are a testament for the company’s excellent blending skills and the pursuit of perfection in quality for its whisky making, further cementing the reputation of Japanese Whisky added the company.

Octaga Green unveils Master’s Imperial and Captain’s Select Whisky’s

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Marrying tradition with sustainability

Octaga Green introduced Master’s Imperial and Captain’s Select, two premium whiskies that embody the brand’s philosophy of blending sustainability with time-honoured craftsmanship. The Master’s Imperial whisky is priced at Rs. 1,815 for a 750 ml bottle, while Captain’s Select is available for Rs. 1,245 for a 750 ml. Both products are available for purchase throughout India and M.O.D. (Ministry of Defense) across 18 states and 5 countries.

Master’s Imperial is a premium blended Scotch whisky tailoured for discerning consumers who seek quality whiskey without a hefty price tag. This blend combines rare grain spirits with 6-year-aged, imported scotch malt delivering a smooth and unique taste. The aging process imparts a distinctive depth and complexity to the final product.

At the same time, Captain’s Select Whisky is a top-tier malt whisky that delivers a smooth and unique flavour. The blend features rare grain spirits and malts aged for 3 years, this classic whisky has been rewarded with a Silver Medal at the IWSC London in 2018.

“At Octaga Green, our vision is to shape a sustainable future while delivering world renowned spirits. True quality goes beyond the product; it’s about creating a positive environmental impact,” said Basab Paul, CEO and Managing Director, Octaga Green.

Indri Single Malt launches ‘The City Series’

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First Travel Retail Exclusive for Bengaluru Duty Free

Indri single malt launched its first travel retail exclusive ‘City Series’ with the debut Oloroso-Sherry cask expression exclusively crafted for Bengaluru Duty Free. The limited edition is solely available for travel retail and is also the first in a series of bespoke single cask expressions, where each release will embody the spirit and essence of a different Indian city, available solely through select duty-free outlets across India and the world.

This travel retail exclusive single malt whisky is specially made, designed, and bottled for Bengaluru Duty Free, celebrating the city in every bottle. The 750 ml bottle of the Indri Single Malt Bengaluru Duty Free Expression is Rs. 9,500 and will have an ABV of 58.8%. The exclusive edition is also available only in the Duty Free, Terminal 2 Departure, Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru.

*David Grady, Country General Manager, Avolta with Surrinder Kumar, Master Distiller & Blender, Piccadily Agro Industries Ltd.,*

The Bengaluru Duty Free Expression captures the spirit and essence of Bengaluru, paying homage to its blend of vibrant modernity and rich traditions. It showcases the intricate craftsmanship Indri is known for, presented with iconic Bengaluru landmarks incorporated into the bottle design.

The makers state that each sip of this Oloroso-Sherry single cask expression offers a taste of the city, combining complexity and warmth with layers of tradition and innovation. This expression boasts a rich and full-bodied nose, revealing sweet caramel, fresh red fruits, and gentle spices, all beautifully intertwined with nutty, caramelized notes and earthy undertones.

On the palate, it offers a warming and balanced experience, featuring fresh red berries, subtle toffee, vanilla, and nuttiness, complemented by soft spices and a gentle dryness. The finish is long and smooth, with lingering flavours of sweet vanilla, spice, and fruity undertones, creating a lasting impression of depth and complexity.

Watch the review of Indri Single Malt here.

“We are thrilled to unveil the first expression of our ‘City Series’ with Bengaluru Duty Free. Each expression of this series is a celebration of India’s diverse cities, their unique essence, and cultural richness,” said Siddhartha Sharma, Promoter, Piccadily Agro Industries Limited. Piccadily plans to launch each expression of the ‘City Series’ that will be an ode to a city’s unique culture, essence, and personality. City specific expressions will be released at other exclusive duty-free outlets, allowing travellers to embark on a flavourful journey through India.

Campari picks up minority stake in ODC (BidCo)

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Campari Group has completed the acquisition from ODC (BidCo) Limited of a 14.6% minority stake in Capevin Holdings Proprietary Limited, the South African holding company indirectly owning, in particular, 100% of CVH Spirits Limited, a Scottish company operating in the production and commercialisation of renowned Single Malt Whiskies Bunnahabhain, Deanston, Tobermory and Ledaig, and Blended Whiskies Scottish Leader and Black Bottle.

Campari Group also holds distribution rights for brands from CVH Spirits Limited portfolio in France and South Korea. In accordance with Capevin Holdings Proprietary Limited’s memorandum of incorporation, Campari Group has exercised its right to appoint a board member and has additional governance rights to protect its minority position. The purchase price paid amounted to GBP 69.6 million (corresponding to €82.6 million at the exchange rate of the transaction date). The transaction was financed using available cash.

Scotch Whisky exports in first half of 2024 reflect global economic headwinds

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Export value of Scotch whisky in H1 2024 was £2.1bn, down £463.2m (-18%) compared with H1 2023
Export volume of Scotch whisky in H1 2024 was 566m 70cl bottles (equivalent), down 64.3m (-10.2%) 70cl bottles compared with H1 2023
H1 2024 is the 4th highest value export total since record began.

The Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) has released new figures revealing that exports of Scotch whisky in the first half of 2024 have fallen by 18% compared to the same period in 2023.

Data for H1 2024 shows that the value of Scotch whisky exports declined when compared with the first half of 2023 – a year in which the industry saw a reduction in exports after a record breaking 2022. Export value in H1 2024 was £2.1bn, down 18% on 2023. In the same period, the volume of exports fell by 10.2%, to the equivalent of 566m 70cl bottles – or 36 bottles of Scotch whisky exported each second, compared to 40 bottles per second in the first half of 2023.

UK Government backs producers

Publishing the figures, which are collated by HMRC, the SWA called on the new UK government to take action to ‘back Scotch producers to the hilt’, as Prime Minister Keir Starmer promised to do in the run up to the General Election. This includes reducing the tax burden on Scotch whisky at the Budget on 30 October following the damaging domestic impact of the 10.1% duty increase in August last year.

By value, the United States remains the largest global market in the first half of 2024. The industry continues to feel the impact of the 25% tariff on Single Malt Scotch whisky, levied between October 2019 and March 2021, which cost the industry £600m in lost exports and market share. The industry continues to press for a full resolution of the underlying trade dispute and ensure that Scotch whisky is removed from further harm in this critical global market.

By volume, India is the largest market, with growth of 17.3% in the first half of 2024 compared with the previous year. This is despite the current 150% tariff on imports remaining in place. The SWA has called on the new UK government to redouble efforts to conclude the UK-India Free Trade Agreement. The phased reduction of the tariff would benefit industries in both the UK and India and could see the value of Scotch whisky exports grow by £1bn over five years.

Commenting on export figures in the first half of 2024, SWA Chief Executive Mark Kent said, “The Prime Minister has promised to ‘back Scotch producers to the hilt’. These figures are a reminder that the success of Scotch whisky cannot be taken for granted and requires government support to ease the industry through short term volatility.

“We are a resilient industry, exporting to over 180 markets, and are experienced in navigating such periods of turbulence, and we are confident of the long-term growth opportunities for Scotch whisky. But it is clear that the first half of 2024 has been challenging, as for other premium global exports. This has not come as a surprise given the volatile international situation affecting global industries and inflationary pressures which have fed through to consumers across global markets.

Seeks Duty Cuts by New Government

“The UK Budget on 30 October is the first opportunity for the new Labour Government to show it truly supports Scotch. Last year’s double-digit tax hike on Scotch whisky in the UK, the largest in 40 years, has already lost HM Treasury almost £300 million in tax revenue. Beginning to reverse the damage by cutting duty on Scotch whisky will boost public finances and bolster the industry through this challenging period.

“In addition, the H1 figures clearly show that our biggest market, the US, has not fully stabilised following COVID and the damage caused by the 25% tariff on Single Malt in the US. The permanent elimination of this tariff, going beyond the current five-year suspension, would remove uncertainty, give the industry increased confidence and allow our full focus to be on growing in this highly competitive spirits market.

“It is welcome that the UK government has picked up negotiations on a UK-India trade agreement. Exports to India have been a bright spot in the first half of 2024, despite the current 150% tariff being a brake on future growth. Securing a deal which reduces the tariff would be a major boost to the industry and help to mitigate the impact of a slowdown in other global markets.”

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John Distilleries invests Rs. 100 crore in Goa plant expansion

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John Distilleries Ltd has invested ₹100 crores in the expansion of its Goa distillery. With demand growing for Paul John Single Malt whisky in both domestic and international markets, the company has added capacity taking to 3 million litres annually from 1.5 million litres.

John Distilleries Ltd (JDL) is stepping up exports and exploring newer global markets for its Paul John Single Malt (PJSM) whiskey, the company said in a statement. Presently, Paul John is exported to over 50 countries. The company said it will be soon launching new variants of the whiskies starting October this year. The company which has distilleries across 12 locations with an overall production of 24 million cases annually, is firming up plans to roll out premium rums and vodka.

John Distilleries Chairman Paul P. John said, “We have almost tripled the capacity of our Goa distillery, from 1.3 million litres to 3 million litres annually. We invested around ₹100 crore in this expansion which will help us in meeting growing demand for PJSM whiskeys in global and domestic markets.”

According to industry estimates, in 2023-24, JDL exported close to 30,000 cases of PJSM whiskey to over 50 countries such as the US, France, UAE and Japan. In the domestic market, the spirits maker sold around 72,000 PJSM whiskey cases.