Tag Archives: Spirits Innovation

Monarch Legacy Edition Brandy Enters Karnataka

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  • Tilaknagar Industries, India’s largest brandy maker, expands its premium offering in Karnataka 
  • 98% of brandy consumption concentrated in South India 

Monarch Legacy Edition, the first luxury brandy from Tilaknagar Industries Ltd., has been launched in Karnataka, one of India’s key brandy markets. First introduced in November 2024, Monarch is already available in Maharashtra, Goa, and Pondicherry, making Karnataka its fourth market.  

In a country where brandy makes up over 22% of total spirits consumption by volume, second only to whisky, 98% of this demand comes from South India, with Karnataka playing a key role. From Bengaluru’s thriving cocktail scene to the long-standing appreciation for the spirit across the state, Karnataka is no stranger to brandy.

Amit Dahanukar, Chairman & Managing Director, Tilaknagar Industries Ltd., commented, “South India has always had a deep connection with brandy, and Karnataka has been a key part of that. Our flagship Mansion House Brandy has been loved here for decades. With Monarch Legacy Edition, we are introducing something new for both loyal and curious consumers—a more refined, expressive take on Indian brandy that reflects evolving tastes, while staying true to TI’s legacy and over 40 years of brandy-making expertise.” 

Earlier this year, Monarch Legacy Edition became the only Indian brandy to win at two of the world’s most prestigious spirits competitions, taking home Gold at the World Drinks Awards 2025 and Bronze at the London Spirits Competition.

Sanaya Dahanukar, Marketing Manager, Tilaknagar Industries Ltd., added, “Karnataka is one of the most exciting markets for spirits right now as there is a huge interest in quality, craft, and new experiences. We have seen a great response to Monarch Legacy Edition in our other markets, and we are excited to see how it’s received here. It’s a great sipping spirit, but what surprises a lot of people is how well it works in cocktails too. We are looking forward to seeing it find its place on menus across the state, for consumers looking for something new in the luxury space.” 

Monarch is the 100% pure grape brandy made from a blend of French grape spirits aged up to eight years and Indian grape spirits from Maharashtra’s Sahyadri region. Distilled in traditional copper pot stills and matured in French oak ex-wine casks, Monarch combines the finesse of Cognac-making with the character of Indian terroir. The same care has gone into how Monarch is presented—from its beautiful decanter-style bottle to the deep navy and gold colour palette inspired by Indian royal heritage. 

The Monarch Legacy Edition has 42.8% ABV and the price in Karnataka is ₹5,000 for 750 ml. The price in Maharashtra is ₹6,750; Goa ₹4,000 and Pondicherry ₹3,500.  

Tasting Notes  

  • Aroma: Rich grape and fruit notes with subtle hints of apple, nutmeg, and tobacco.  
  • Palate: Velvety sweetness balanced by creamy oak and indulgent dried fruits.  
  • Finish: Long and warm with cinnamon, peach, and clove nuances. 

Vinexpo Asia calls for Rules-based Trading, Amid Tariff Issues

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Held in Singapore, Vinexpo Asia 2025 brought together 1,100 exhibitors and over 11,000 visitors, reaffirming the resilience of the global wine and spirits industry amidst rising trade tensions and tariff uncertainties. The event underscored the importance of staying connected and adapting to an evolving geo-economic climate.

Singapore’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs and Trade & Industry, Gan Siow Huang, highlighted the existential threat of trade barriers for small producers and the need for a predictable, rules-based trade system. She emphasized Singapore’s commitment to international collaboration, with 28 Free Trade Agreements, including the newly effective Pacific Alliance-Singapore FTA.

The Asia Pacific wine and spirits market is expected to grow annually at 6.85% till 2030, driven by a youthful middle class and interest in innovative offerings such as low- or no-alcohol options. Singapore, with its strategic location and robust logistics, has emerged as a key import-export hub—importing $2.1B and exporting $2.5B worth of wines and spirits.

Vinexpo’s CEO, Rodolphe Lameyse, addressed the triple challenges facing the industry: shifting consumption habits, climate change, and geopolitical shocks. He reiterated that face-to-face engagements like Vinexpo are crucial for building partnerships and strategizing the future.

The event saw strong participation from global wine producers and featured over 4,000 business meetings, with buyers from more than 60 countries—especially from Southeast Asia—cementing the region’s growing significance in the alcobev trade.