Indri Dru Crowned 'Best Indian Single Malt' at World Whiskies Awards 2024

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 1, 2024

In a landmark moment for the Indian whisky industry, Piccadily Distilleries' Indri Dru has been awarded the prestigious title of 'Best Indian Single Malt' at the World Whiskies Awards 2024. This accolade comes on the heels of the success of Indri-Trini, India's first triple cask single malt, which also received international recognition. Indri Dru's triumph is a testament to India's burgeoning reputation in the global whisky scene, less than a year after its market introduction in 2023.

The name 'Dru' is derived from Sanskrit, meaning wood, and pays homage to the ancient Indian mythological drink “soma”. Matured in the subtropical climate of northern India, Indri Dru is a meticulously crafted whisky, blending the richness of Ex-Bourbon barrels to achieve a unique flavour profile, characterised by its impressive 57.2% alcohol by volume.

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Indri Dru delights the senses from the first whiff, offering a rich aroma of mixed fruits, underpinned by vanilla, spice, chocolate, and honey notes. The palate is treated to a symphony of sweet fruits, soft spice, and vanilla, with undertones of chocolate and wood lactones, enriched by citrus notes that lend the whisky its depth and complexity. The finish is both full-bodied and intricate, leaving a lingering fruitiness that is both tantalising and satisfying.

"This award for 'Best Indian Single Malt' is a recognition of India's exceptional skill in whisky making and underscores our commitment to excellence," remarked Siddhartha Sharma, Founder of Piccadily Distilleries. "Indri Dru not only brings honour to our distillery but also marks India's rising stature in the global whisky industry."

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The World Whiskies Awards, known for its rigorous judging process, involves three rounds of scrutiny by an esteemed panel, including international journalists, industry experts, and specialist drink retailers. The competition celebrates the finest in whisky making from around the globe, with participants from the United Kingdom, the United States, Denmark, Australia, and beyond.

Indri Dru's recognition at the World Whiskies Awards 2024 adds to its growing list of accolades, including high praise from the International Wine and Spirits Competition of 2023. Lauded for its balance and richness in flavour, Indri Dru is celebrated as a standout addition to the whisky world, promising a memorable experience for connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.


BeeYoung Tropic: India’s First Crafted Tropical Pilsner Makes a Refreshing Debut

BeeYoung Tropic: India’s First Crafted Tropical Pilsner Makes a Refreshing Debut

By Hariharan U

Published on December 6, 2025

Kimaya Himalayan Beverages has launched a refreshing new addition to its popular BeeYoung craft beer lineup, BeeYoung Tropic, India’s first crafted Tropical Pilsner. The new variant made its debut at Doon Music Festival Season 4, setting a lively and youthful tone that matches the brand’s spirit.

BeeYoung, known across India for its crisp taste and energetic vibe, created this new brew at its microbrewery in New Delhi’s BeeYoung Brewgarden. What began as an experimental favourite among visitors soon turned into a standout creation worth taking nationwide.

BeeYoung Tropic is crafted to bring a bright, feel-good experience with every sip. The flavour profile highlights gentle notes of mango and passion fruit, layered over a light-bodied, crisp pilsner base with a smooth malty finish. Designed to pair comfortably with all cuisines and seasons, it’s the kind of beer meant for unwinding, celebrating and connecting with friends.

After extensive trials, the team perfected its canning process to ensure the same fresh, clean and fruity profile reaches consumers everywhere.

Expressing his excitement, Abhinav Jindal, CEO and Founder of Kimaya Himalayan Beverages, said, “With the launch of BeeYoung Tropic Pilsner, we aim to capture the feeling of pure joy and togetherness that arises from great craft beer. Launching it here in Dehradun, the city where BeeYoung was born, surrounded by music and mountains, feels like the perfect homecoming for this tropical journey.”

BeeYoung Tropic now joins the brand’s flagship craft brews, continuing the brand’s strong connection with India’s young and fearless beer community.


Jinro Partners with Monika Alcobev to Bring Korea’s No.1 Soju to India’s Fast-Growing Market

Jinro Partners with Monika Alcobev to Bring Korea’s No.1 Soju to India’s Fast-Growing Market

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 5, 2025

India’s premium alcobev market is set for a major boost as Monika Alcobev Limited announces a new partnership with Jinro, the world’s No. 1 spirit and South Korea’s most iconic Soju brand. Through this collaboration, Monika Alcobev will now handle Jinro’s complete India operations, import, distribution, and marketing across key cities.

The partnership comes at a time when Soju is gaining powerful traction in India, driven by the rising influence of Korean cuisine, K-culture, and social trends. With more Indian consumers exploring global drinking formats, Soju has quickly become one of the most dynamic categories in the premium spirits segment.

Kunal Patel, Managing Director of Monika Alcobev, said, “We are proud to add Jinro to our premium portfolio lineup. Soju has grown from a regional favourite to a global phenomenon, and Jinro continues to lead that shift. This partnership reflects our alignment with the market and our ability to grow premium global brands in India.”

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Sharing insights from the trade, Hemang Chandat, Chief Commercial Officer at Monika Alcobev, added, “Demand for Soju is accelerating rapidly in India. With Jinro, we are bringing the most recognised and trusted name in the category. The timing is ideal, and we expect strong momentum from consumers.”

The rollout will begin in major metros including Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Goa. Expansion into Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities will follow. To support the launch, consumers can look forward to cultural collaborations, immersive events and dedicated bar programs that highlight authentic Korean experiences.

Popular Jinro variants such as Chamisul Fresh, Green Grape, Plum, Strawberry and Peach will be introduced, giving both loyal Soju fans and first-time drinkers multiple options to explore.

David, Export Manager at HiteJinro Co., Ltd., shared, “We are delighted to introduce Korea’s No. 1 Jinro Soju to Indian consumers through Monika Alcobev’s wide distribution network and strong market presence. India is one of the world’s largest spirit-consuming nations, and together, we believe Jinro Soju will see remarkable growth.”

With this partnership, Monika Alcobev continues to strengthen its premium global portfolio, reaffirming its position as a trusted gateway for international alcobev brands entering India. The collaboration also reflects the company’s focus on sustainable growth, brand-building, and creating meaningful experiences for the modern consumer.


Tealive Set to Open at Reach 3 Roads, Bringing a Global Beverage Experience to Gurugram

Tealive Set to Open at Reach 3 Roads, Bringing a Global Beverage Experience to Gurugram

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 5, 2025

Reach 3 Roads in Sector 70, Gurugram is preparing to welcome Tealive, one of the world’s most popular beverage chains, to its dynamic high-street community. The new outlet, opening soon on the Ground Floor, adds another strong global name to the destination’s expanding lineup of international F&B brands.

Tealive is known for its wide selection of handcrafted beverages, including signature milk teas, fruit teas, coolers and speciality drinks. Its modern, youthful style and globally loved flavours make it a refreshing addition for visitors looking for an everyday beverage experience with an international touch.

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Speaking about the arrival of Tealive, Ramandeep Mokha, Director, Reach Group, shared, “We are excited to welcome Tealive to Reach 3 Roads. Our aim has always been to create a lively, community-focused high-street with varied choices for everyone. Tealive’s global appeal and innovative drink menu align perfectly with our vision of offering meaningful, everyday experiences.”

A well-known destination in Sector 70, Reach 3 Roads brings together retail, wellness, dining and entertainment in a seamless open-air environment. It is home to leading brands such as Samsung, Imagine, Haldirams, Red Tape, Zudio, Zudio Beauty and Croma. With Tealive joining this growing mix, visitors can look forward to an even wider selection of brands in a vibrant setting that reflects the true spirit of a modern, community-driven high street.

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