ABD's Iconiq White Whisky Hits 2 Million Cases Sold in Debut Year

ABD's Iconiq White Whisky Hits 2 Million Cases Sold in Debut Year

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on April 3, 2024

Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD) is celebrating a remarkable achievement as its new ICONiQ White Whisky reaches a sales milestone of 2 million cases in its inaugural year. Despite being available in only 70% of the operational segment, this premium offering has resonated strongly with consumers, reflecting ABD's deep understanding of market preferences and its ability to deliver high-quality products.

ICONiQ White Whisky is a unique blend of imported Scotch malts aged in bourbon oak casks, combined with select matured malts and Indian grain spirits. This blend not only showcases ABD's commitment to quality but also positions the brand in the super-premium segments of the market.

Alok Gupta, Managing Director at ABD India, expressed his delight at the success of ICONiQ White Whisky, emphasizing how it reinforces ABD's strategic focus on premiumization. He noted that achieving such a milestone amid competition from established multinational brands further strengthens their resolve to venture into even higher value segments.

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Bikram Basu, Chief Strategy & Marketing Officer at ABD, echoed Gupta's sentiments, stating that while they celebrate the current success, they are already setting their sights higher for the future. This success story underscores ABD's dedication to excellence and its ambition to continually exceed expectations in the spirits industry.

ICONiQ White Whisky is available in various pack sizes, including 750 ml, 375 ml, 180 ml, and 90 ml, catering to a wide range of consumer preferences.

In addition to its success with ICONiQ White Whisky, ABD has also gained recognition for its other brands, including Sterling Reserve Whisky, further solidifying its position as a leader in the market. With a strong distribution network and a focus on understanding consumer needs, ABD is poised for continued growth and success in the ever-evolving spirits industry.


Chinese Wok Opens First Outlet in Calicut, Expands South India Network to 90 Stores

Chinese Wok Opens First Outlet in Calicut, Expands South India Network to 90 Stores

By Hariharan U

Published on July 13, 2026

Chinese Wok, the flagship Desi Chinese quick service restaurant (QSR) brand from Lenexis Foodworks, has expanded its presence in Kerala with the launch of its first outlet in Calicut. Located at Lulu Mall, the new restaurant marks the brand's entry into one of Kerala's fastest-growing food markets while taking its Kerala footprint to 10 outlets and its South India network to 90 stores.

The expansion forms part of Chinese Wok's strategy to strengthen its presence across high-potential Tier-II cities. Calicut's growing base of local consumers, students, working professionals, and GCC travellers, coupled with rising disposable incomes and an increasing appetite for organised dining, makes the city a strategic market for the brand.

Situated within Lulu Mall, one of Calicut's leading retail destinations, the outlet has been designed to serve shoppers, families, students, and young professionals through a convenient dine-in and takeaway format. Customers can enjoy the brand's signature menu featuring Hakka Noodles, Schezwan Noodles, Momos, Fries, and value-driven combo meals.

Commenting on the launch, Arvind R P, Chief Executive Officer, Lenexis Foodworks, said Calicut represents an important milestone in the company's South India growth strategy. He noted that the city's vibrant food culture and demand for quality, affordable meals make it an ideal market for Chinese Wok, adding that the brand remains committed to democratising Desi Chinese cuisine through a disciplined and scalable expansion approach.

The new outlet will offer dine-in, takeaway, and home delivery services, extending Chinese Wok's signature combination of flavour, affordability, and convenience to consumers in Calicut.

Founded in 2015, Chinese Wok has grown into India's largest Desi Chinese QSR brand with a network of more than 270 outlets across over 50 cities. Operated by Lenexis Foodworks, the company also manages The Momo Co. and Big Bowl as part of its expanding portfolio of quick-service restaurant brands


Farzi Café Cyberhub Celebrates World Rum Day with 'Dear Delhi' Cocktail

Farzi Café Cyberhub Celebrates World Rum Day with 'Dear Delhi' Cocktail

By Hariharan U

Published on July 13, 2026

Ahead of World Rum Day on 11 July, Farzi Café Cyberhub is celebrating the occasion with the launch of 'Dear Delhi', a signature cocktail that pays tribute to the capital through locally inspired flavours and contemporary mixology.

Part of the restaurant's Heritage Greens cocktail collection, Dear Delhi draws inspiration from the lush landscapes of Delhi's historic Sunder Nursery, reimagining the city's green spaces through an innovative rum-based creation.

Moving beyond conventional tropical rum cocktails, the drink features a distinctive cream cheese-infused rum base layered with sweet strawberry, almond, fresh basil and a touch of citrus. The cocktail is then clarified using a coconut milk wash, resulting in a crystal-clear, silky-smooth punch that balances richness with freshness.

Designed to reflect both nostalgia and innovation, Dear Delhi showcases Farzi Café's approach to modern Indian mixology by combining unconventional techniques with flavours rooted in local identity.

Priced at ₹650, the cocktail is available exclusively at Farzi Café, Cyberhub, offering guests a unique way to celebrate World Rum Day through a drink inspired by one of Delhi's most iconic landmarks


The Leela Gandhinagar Celebrates the Monsoon with Seasonal Delights at Citrus Junction

The Leela Gandhinagar Celebrates the Monsoon with Seasonal Delights at Citrus Junction

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 13, 2026

The Leela Gandhinagar is celebrating the arrival of the rainy season with Monsoon Delights, a specially curated weekend dining experience at Citrus Junction, beginning July 10, 2026 and available across all weekends in July.

Inspired by the comforting flavours that define the monsoon, the seasonal menu brings together popular regional favourites from across India. Guests can savour steaming bowls of thukpa, Bombay toasties, stuffed chillas, vada pav, and a variety of seasonal delicacies that are often enjoyed during the rains.

Adding to the experience are interactive live culinary stations where dishes are prepared fresh, along with aromatic cups of tea and indulgent desserts that perfectly complement the monsoon mood.

Set within the elegant interiors of Citrus Junction, inspired by the timeless charm of luxury rail travel, the experience offers more than just a meal. It creates a cosy setting where guests can slow down, enjoy comforting food, and spend quality time with family and friends while watching the monsoon unfold.

Speaking about the seasonal offering, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, said:

"Every season brings with it flavours and traditions that evoke a sense of place and belonging, and the monsoon is perhaps the most nostalgic of them all. With 'Monsoon Delights', we wanted to celebrate those familiar moments that many of us associate with the rains sharing comforting food, enjoying time with loved ones, and creating memories around the table. It is our way of bringing the warmth of the season to our guests through an experience that is comforting."

Blending regional culinary traditions with The Leela's signature hospitality, Monsoon Delights promises a warm and memorable dining experience, celebrating the simple pleasures of the rainy season through comforting food and shared moments.

Event Details

  • Event: Monsoon Delights.

  • Venue: Citrus Junction, The Leela Gandhinagar.

  • Dates: Every weekend in July from July 10, 2026.

  • Experience: Seasonal monsoon menu with live culinary stations.

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