Naara Aaba, India's First Organic Kiwi Wine

A Taste of the Himalayas: Naara Aaba, India's First Organic Kiwi Wine

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on March 30, 2024

Nestled amidst the breathtaking Himalayan foothills of Arunachal Pradesh lies a story of innovation and local pride. Here, in the village of Hong, amidst the Apatani tribe, flourishes a unique winery – Naara Aaba, the producer of India's first-ever organic kiwi wine.

The Apatani people have a long history of cultivating kiwi fruit, contributing significantly to India's overall production. In 2016, Arunachal Pradesh boasted a remarkable 26% share of the country's total kiwi output. So, when faced with a surplus of this delicious fruit, agricultural engineer Tage Rita Takhe saw an opportunity. Why not transform this local bounty into a product that could not only benefit the community but also put Arunachal Pradesh on the map?

Naara Aaba, which translates to “father's name” in the local dialect, embodies the spirit of tradition and innovation. Launched in 2017, the winery utilizes meticulous, small-batch production methods to ensure the highest quality. The focus is on organic practices, using only locally sourced, naturally grown kiwi fruit. This not only minimizes environmental impact but also allows the unique character of the Arunachal Pradesh terroir to shine through in the final product.

For those accustomed to the world of grape-based wines, Naara Aaba offers a refreshing departure. The kiwi wine boasts a vibrant, pale yellow color and a delightful aroma reminiscent of gooseberries and tropical fruits. The initial sip presents a burst of tangy sweetness, followed by a well-balanced finish with subtle hints of citrus and honey. This unique profile makes it a versatile drink, perfect on its own as an aperitif or paired with lighter dishes like salads, seafood, and even spicy curries.

Naara Aaba’s success extends beyond the delicious wine it produces. The winery has become a source of empowerment for the local community. It directly supports over 300 kiwi farmers, providing them with a reliable market for their produce. Additionally, the winery employs local residents, contributing to the region's economic development.

While securing a bottle of Naara Aaba outside of Arunachal Pradesh and neighboring Assam can be challenging due to transportation limitations, the journey to experience it firsthand is an adventure in itself. Arunachal Pradesh, with its stunning natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, offers a unique travel experience. Imagine sipping on a glass of Naara Aaba amidst the breathtaking Himalayan landscape – a truly unforgettable moment.

Naara Aaba's story is an inspiration. It showcases the power of local innovation, the importance of sustainable practices, and the potential of a community working together to create something truly special. So, next time you're searching for a unique and refreshing wine experience, remember Naara Aaba, a taste of the Himalayas waiting to be discovered.

Éntisi Chocolatier Opens First Flagship Store in Pune, Bringing Artisanal Chocolate to Life

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on October 14, 2024

Éntisi Chocolatier, founded by Nikki Thakker, has opened its first store outside of Mumbai in Pune's Koregaon Park. This new outlet is the seventh store for Éntisi, offering a luxurious and immersive chocolate experience for its customers. The 2000 sq. ft. space is designed to delight chocolate lovers, with warm, earthy tones and modern decor that reflect the craftsmanship behind every product.

As customers step inside, they are greeted by the rich aroma of fine chocolate. The store features a gifting station for personalized chocolate gifts, making it an ideal place to find something special for any occasion. Signature bonbons, displayed like jewels, are handcrafted with care, offering a visual treat as well as a decadent taste.

Éntisi introduces the first-ever dragee silos, allowing customers to choose from a variety of chocolate-coated nuts and fruits. This unique feature lets visitors create their own customized indulgences. The highlight of the store is the chocolate spread fountain, where smooth, velvety chocolate flows, inviting customers to dip and enjoy the sweet experience.

For those interested in the chocolate-making process, the live chocolate tempering station provides a close-up view. Éntisi’s in-house chef expertly tempers chocolate in real-time, making the visit interactive and engaging. The store also houses a glass-enclosed tempering room equipped with advanced machinery, ensuring that every piece of chocolate is crafted to perfection.

Nikki Thakker, Founder, Éntisi Chocolatier

The design of the store mirrors the richness of chocolate, using materials like wood, terrazzo, and micro concrete to create a space that feels both luxurious and comfortable. Every detail, from the layout to the decor, is carefully designed to immerse visitors in the world of Éntisi, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly.

Nikki Thakker, founder of Éntisi Chocolatier, shared her excitement about the new store, saying, “Our new store in Koregaon Park, Pune, is more than just a place to buy chocolates; it's a celebration of the craft, passion, and creativity that goes into every piece we create. We invite our customers to step into a world where they can see, taste, and feel the magic of chocolate making. Expect a journey of indulgence, discovery, and a whole lot of fun!”

BeeYoung Launches Their New Variant Beer 'BeeYoung Beyond’

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 14, 2024

In a bold move to redefine the craft beer landscape in India, BeeYoung, the nation's first handcrafted strong beer, has unveiled its latest creation: BeeYoung Beyond. This "Crafted International Style Pilsner" merges traditional regional flavors with international brewing standards, delivering a premium beer that is proudly Indian and aimed at exceeding consumer expectations.

Crafted with a distinctive blend of Doon Basmati rice from Uttarakhand and Belgian specialty malt, BeeYoung Beyond pays homage to India's rich agricultural heritage while offering a smooth, velvety mouthfeel. The use of this locally sourced rice reflects the Himalayas' beauty—the birthplace of Kimaya Himalayan Beverages—capturing the essence of local life and culture. The result is a robust and smooth beer infused with subtle earthy, spicy, and floral aromas from carefully selected hops.

“At BeeYoung, we've always believed in pushing the boundaries of what craft beer can be. BeeYoung Beyond is a testament to our commitment to craft excellence,” said Abhinav Jindal, Founder & CEO of Kimaya Himalayan Beverages LLP. “The inclusion of Doon Basmati rice in our brew speaks to the unique flavor profile and reflects our dedication to sourcing local, high-quality ingredients that celebrate India's provenance. We are thrilled to offer our consumers something that goes beyond just beer—a true experience in every sip.”

With BeeYoung Beyond, the brand aims to provide a refreshing and versatile beer that can be enjoyed in various settings, promising an unforgettable experience with each sip.

Éntisi Chocolatier Launches First Flagship Store in Pune

By Nishang Narayan

Published on October 13, 2024

Éntisi Chocolatier has officially launched its first flagship store in Koregaon Park, Pune, making it the brand's seventh location and its first venture outside Mumbai. Founded by Nikki Thakker, this outlet promises a chocolate lover's paradise, offering an immersive, multi-sensory experience that invites patrons to indulge in the magic of artisanal chocolate making.

As customers step through the doors, they are greeted by the irresistible aroma of fine chocolate wafting through the expansive 2000 sq. ft. space. The warm, earthy tones and modern design elements create a luxurious yet inviting atmosphere, reflecting the craftsmanship behind every exquisite piece of chocolate.

To the right of the entrance, a gifting station awaits, providing elegant packaging and personalized gifts—ideal for celebrating special occasions with something truly unique. On the left, Éntisi’s signature bonbons glisten like jewels, each handcrafted with meticulous care. As guests explore further, they’ll find the store's first-ever dragee silos, where they can select chocolate-coated nuts and fruits, tailoring their own sweet indulgence.

The highlight of the store is undoubtedly the chocolate spread fountain, inviting visitors to dip into a smooth, velvety river of chocolate, ready to be taken home and savored. For true chocolate connoisseurs, the live chocolate tempering station offers an intimate view of the chocolate-making process. Here, Éntisi’s in-house chef expertly tempers chocolate, transforming each visit into an engaging and interactive experience.

Adjacent to this area, a glass-enclosed tempering room houses state-of-the-art machinery, ensuring every piece of chocolate is crafted to perfection. The store's design serves as an extension of the chocolate experience, with a soothing palette of warm browns, golds, and earthy tones mirroring the rich hues of chocolate. Materials like wood, terrazzo, and micro-concrete evoke a sense of both luxury and comfort.

Speaking about the experience center, Nikki Thakker says, “Our new store in Koregaon Park, Pune, is more than just a place to buy chocolates; it's a celebration of the craft, passion, and creativity that goes into every piece we create. We invite our customers to step into a world where they can see, taste, and feel the magic of chocolate making. Expect a journey of indulgence, discovery, and a whole lot of fun!”

Éntisi Chocolatier's new flagship store is poised to become a must-visit destination for chocolate lovers in Pune, offering a unique blend of tradition and modern innovation in the world of chocolate artistry.

Welcome to post your talent

A platform dedicated to showcase the skills and creativity of hospitality professionals. Share your articles, videos and other content related to the industry and get recognized for your unique perspective and expertise. By posting your content and gaining likes from your own community, we'll categorize your talents and expose them to the hospitality world. Join our community of passionate hospitality professionals and let your talent shine!.

A Taste of the Himalayas: Naara Aaba, India's First Organic Kiwi Wine

Most Read In News

Éntisi Chocolatier Opens First Flagship Store in Pune, Bringing Artisanal Chocolate to Life

Most Read In News

BeeYoung Launches Their New Variant Beer 'BeeYoung Beyond’

Most Read In News

Éntisi Chocolatier Launches First Flagship Store in Pune

Most Read In News