IMWA Introduces Certification Mark for Authentic Indian Single Malt Whiskies

IMWA Introduces Certification Mark for Authentic Indian Single Malt Whiskies

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 25, 2026

The Indian Malt Whisky Association (IMWA) has announced the introduction of a Certification Trademark for Indian single malt whiskies, creating a formal framework to verify authenticity and production standards within one of the country's fastest-growing premium spirits categories.

The certification will be issued in the form of a secure hologram displayed on qualifying products, offering consumers a clear and reliable indication of authenticity. The mark will be awarded only to manufacturers that meet the production standards established by IMWA, which are aligned with internationally recognised practices while reflecting India's unique climatic and geographical conditions.

Under the framework, producers must comply with a strict set of requirements to qualify as an Indian single malt whisky. These include the use of 100% malted barley without the addition of molasses or neutral spirits, production at a single distillery in India, distillation in copper pot stills, and maturation for a minimum of three years in oak casks with a capacity not exceeding 700 litres.

In addition, the entire production process, including mashing, distillation, maturation and bottling, must be carried out within India. The standards also prohibit the use of external flavouring agents.

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Commenting on the initiative, Maj Gen (Dr) Rajesh Chopra, AVSM (Retd), Director General, IMWA, said: "As the Indian single malt category scales both domestically and globally, the need for a credible, industry-owned validation mechanism becomes critical. The certification mark is not just about compliance but about establishing a shared baseline of authenticity and process integrity. It aims to bring clarity in a fragmented market, reinforce consumer trust, and ensure that the category's growth is built on verifiable standards rather than perception alone."

The certification is expected to address long-standing concerns regarding product authenticity by providing consumers with a trusted identifier in a category where definitions have often varied. Industry stakeholders believe the move will encourage greater transparency while helping buyers make more informed purchasing decisions.

The initiative is also expected to strengthen India's position in the global premium whisky market. By aligning production standards with international expectations, the framework could improve export readiness, support wider market acceptance and enhance the long-term credibility of Indian single malts.

As Indian single malt whiskies continue to gain recognition for their craftsmanship and distinctive character, the IMWA Certification Trademark is expected to contribute to a more structured, transparent and globally competitive future for the category.


The Orchid Chandigarh Celebrates Rakshabandhan with South Indian Festive Feast

The Orchid Chandigarh Celebrates Rakshabandhan with South Indian Festive Feast

By Hariharan U

Published on August 23, 2026

The Orchid Chandigarh is inviting guests to celebrate Rakshabandhan with an authentic South Indian festive dining experience at South of Vindhyas on August 28, bringing together regional flavours, family traditions and warm hospitality.

The specially curated experience is designed for families looking to mark the occasion over a festive meal, with a menu inspired by the rich culinary traditions of South India.

Guests can choose between thoughtfully curated vegetarian and non-vegetarian meals, featuring classic South Indian delicacies prepared using authentic recipes and time-honoured cooking techniques. The menus are designed to offer a wholesome dining experience while showcasing the distinctive flavours of the region.

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Whether celebrating the bond between siblings, gathering with family or simply enjoying a festive meal, the Rakshabandhan offering at South of Vindhyas provides an opportunity to mark the occasion through food and togetherness.

The experience reflects the restaurant’s focus on bringing authentic regional cuisine to Chandigarh while creating memorable occasions for guests. With traditional flavours and the hospitality associated with The Orchid Chandigarh, the festive meal aims to make Rakshabandhan a special culinary celebration.

Event Details:

What: Rakshabandhan Festive Meal
Venue: South of Vindhyas, The Orchid Chandigarh
Date: August 28, 2026
Contact: +91 9056784618 / +91 9056784619 / +91 9056784617


Opus at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Brings Chinese Hot-Pot Experience This August

Opus at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai Brings Chinese Hot-Pot Experience This August

By Hariharan U

Published on August 22, 2026

This August, Opus at Four Seasons Hotel Mumbai is bringing a warm and comforting Chinese dining experience to the city with Hot-Pot: The Comfort of Togetherness, running from 17–30 August.

The experience offers guests a choice of three broths, Sichuan, Asian Mushroom and Tomato Stock. These can be paired with a selection of vegetables, meats, seafood and noodles, giving diners the option to build a hot-pot meal to their liking.

Designed for sharing, the experience is well suited for Mumbai's monsoon season and offers a relaxed way to enjoy a meal with family and friends.

With its focus on warm broths, fresh ingredients and a shared dining format, Hot-Pot: The Comfort of Togetherness adds a seasonal option to Mumbai's August dining scene


Harajuku Bakehouse Brings Sweet Japanese Inspired Treats for Rakhi

Harajuku Bakehouse Brings Sweet Japanese Inspired Treats for Rakhi

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 22, 2026

Rakhi gifting gets a sweeter and more playful touch this year with Harajuku Bakehouse at BKC, offering Japanese-inspired desserts that make for a fun surprise for siblings with a sweet tooth.

Known for its kawaii Japanese-inspired look, colourful bakes and picture-perfect treats, Harajuku Bakehouse brings together desserts that can be enjoyed as gifts or shared during a sibling outing.

For those looking to try something different, the menu features Bento Cakes in chocolate, vanilla and rainbow flavours, along with the soft and jiggly Japanese Cotton Cheesecake and the eye-catching Mt. Fuji Tiramisu.

Smaller treats are also available, including Nutella Dorayaki and Japanese Nama Chocolate Fudge Brownies, offering easy gifting options for siblings who enjoy trying new desserts.

The experience goes beyond desserts, with Harajuku Bakehouse also offering a selection of matcha, hojicha and boba drinks. Guests can choose from Iced Strawberry Matcha, Hojicha Lattes, Tiger Brown Sugar Milk Tea and Iced Boba Matcha, making it easy to turn a Rakhi dessert stop into a complete sibling date.

With its colourful setting and playful presentation, Harajuku Bakehouse offers a different take on Rakhi gifting. Whether it is a cute cake to share or a selection of desserts and drinks to explore together, the Bakehouse gives siblings another reason to spend time together this Rakhi.

This Rakhi, instead of going with the usual mithai or chocolates, siblings can explore Harajuku Bakehouse’s Japanese-inspired desserts and add something new and sweet to the celebrations.

Rakhi Gifting Details:

  • What: Rakshabandhan Dessert Gifting from Harajuku Bakehouse
  • Where: Harajuku Bakehouse, BKC, Mumbai
  • When: Available now | 10 AM - 10 PM.

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