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.


Celebrate Father’s Day with a Culinary Experience at Loya, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

Celebrate Father’s Day with a Culinary Experience at Loya, The Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2026

This Father’s Day, Loya at The Taj Mahal Palace, Mumbai, is offering families an opportunity to celebrate the special bond they share with their fathers through a memorable culinary experience inspired by the rich traditions of North India.

Located within one of Mumbai’s most iconic landmarks, Loya combines regional flavours, storytelling, and warm hospitality to create a dining experience that brings families together over meaningful conversations and exceptional food.

The celebration comes at a special time for the restaurant as Loya marks its first anniversary with the introduction of its new S.P.I.C.E. cocktail programme and a refreshed menu inspired by the lesser-known culinary traditions of Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand.

Built on extensive research and traditional cooking methods, the menu highlights indigenous ingredients and time-honoured techniques such as dum cooking, stone-grinding, open-fire roasting, and slow simmering. The result is a collection of dishes that showcase the depth and diversity of Northern India's culinary heritage.

Guests can savour signature offerings including Kachhi Haldi aur Chuare ka Paneer, Kim Khatte Waali Machhi, Chamba Gosht, and Kurmuri Moongri, each crafted to reflect authentic regional flavours and traditions.

Complementing the food is Loya’s newly launched S.P.I.C.E. cocktail menu, which reimagines familiar Indian flavours into contemporary beverages. Signature creations such as Loya Chaa, Loya Mary, and Patria's Martini bring together nostalgia and innovation in every sip.

To round off the experience, guests can indulge in traditional desserts including Doodh Jalebi, Kulfi Pops, and Gud ke Maan, offering a comforting and memorable finish to the meal.

With its blend of artisanal presentation, regional cuisine, thoughtful service, and immersive storytelling, Loya provides an ideal setting for families looking to celebrate Father’s Day through shared experiences rather than traditional gifts.

This Father’s Day, Loya invites guests to raise a toast to fathers, family, and the moments that create lasting memories.


ITC Fabelle Introduces New 64% Ghana-Origin Dark Chocolate Range

ITC Fabelle Introduces New 64% Ghana-Origin Dark Chocolate Range

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2026

Fabelle Chocolates, ITC’s luxury chocolate brand, has unveiled its new 64% Ghana-Origin Dark Chocolate range, further strengthening its premium chocolate portfolio in response to the growing demand for richer cocoa experiences and mindful indulgence among Indian consumers.

Crafted using premium Ghana-origin cocoa, known for its distinctive aroma and flavour depth, the new range reflects Fabelle’s focus on fine chocolate craftsmanship. The chocolates are developed using precise cocoa sourcing, ultra-fine particle size technology, and extended conching processes that enhance flavour, texture, and overall mouthfeel.

As consumer preferences continue to evolve, dark chocolate is increasingly becoming a preferred choice for those seeking refined and sophisticated indulgence. With this launch, Fabelle aims to offer a diverse collection of dark chocolate creations that celebrate cocoa while introducing unique flavour combinations.

The range includes Cranberry Noir, which combines rich dark chocolate with the gentle tartness of cranberries, and Orange Eclipse, which brings together cocoa and subtle citrus notes. For consumers seeking a more straightforward cocoa experience, the No Added Sugar Dark Chocolate Bar highlights the pure character of dark chocolate without added sugar.

Also featured in the collection is Dark Symphony, a box of 10 handcrafted pralines created with no added sugar. The assortment includes a carefully curated blend of almond, macadamia, pecan, hazelnut, and pistachio, offering a layered and indulgent tasting experience.

Commenting on the launch, Subash Balar, Business Head – Confectionery, Chocolates & Coffee, ITC Ltd., said,

“The modern Indian consumer is rethinking indulgence, seeking greater transparency, balance, and choice without giving up on experience. This is evident in the rapid growth of dark chocolate in India, which industry reports indicate has more than doubled over the past five years, outpacing traditional milk chocolate. Alongside this, demand for no added sugar options continues to rise. Through Fabelle, we are shaping a more refined chocolate culture that reflects how consumers want to indulge today.”

The new 64% Ghana-Origin Dark Chocolate range reflects Fabelle’s vision of elevating everyday indulgence through thoughtfully crafted products and premium ingredients. The collection will be available at Fabelle boutiques across select cities and through the brand’s online platform.


PARVA Opens in Chennai, Celebrating India’s Culinary Diversity Through Honest Dining

PARVA Opens in Chennai, Celebrating India’s Culinary Diversity Through Honest Dining

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on June 16, 2026

PARVA has officially opened its doors in Akkarai, Chennai, introducing a dining experience centred on authentic flavours, thoughtful hospitality, and the rich diversity of Indian cuisine.

Derived from the Sanskrit word meaning both "festival" and "chapters," PARVA has been conceptualised as a celebration of India's culinary heritage, where every dish reflects a region, a story, and a tradition. The restaurant aims to offer guests a space where good food and genuine hospitality take centre stage.

Built around a philosophy of simplicity and authenticity, PARVA focuses on balanced flavours, quality ingredients, and dishes that feel both familiar and refined. Whether guests visit for a casual weekday meal or a lively gathering with family and friends, the restaurant is designed to create a warm and comfortable dining experience.

Speaking about the vision behind the restaurant, Mrs. Siji Saraswathy, Managing Director, PARVA, said, "PARVA was born from a vision to offer Chennai a dining experience that feels both distinctive and deeply familiar. Our aim is to make every guest feel at home, regardless of which part of India they come from, while celebrating the incredible diversity of our country's culinary heritage. Through PARVA, we hope to showcase the rich flavours and traditions that make India a true melting pot of cuisines."

The menu brings together dishes from more than 23 regions across India, with a strong emphasis on authenticity. Ingredients are sourced from their native regions to preserve traditional flavours, including Gondhoraj lemon from West Bengal, Chak Hao rice from Manipur, and Byadgi chillies from Karnataka.

Chef Arupam said, "The idea was never to complicate food. We wanted to create dishes that people connect with instantly, flavours that feel comforting, yet are executed with care and precision. PARVA is also our way of celebrating the diversity of Indian kitchens, with a menu that brings together dishes from over 23 regions across India. We stay true to each cuisine by using authentic ingredients sourced from their regions, from Gondhoraj lemon of West Bengal to Chak Hao rice of Manipur and Byadgi chillies of Karnataka."

Further enhancing the menu's authenticity, PARVA incorporates distinctive ingredients such as Radhuni from West Bengal, Kokum from the Western Ghats and Konkani coast, Black Till Seeds from Assam, and Chak Hao black rice from Manipur, allowing each dish to retain the character of its place of origin.

The restaurant's concept, menu, brand identity, and guest experience have been developed under the guidance of Principal Consultant Rajesh Kumar, popularly known as Gourmet Sage, with a focus on creating a consistent and guest-first dining destination.

The interiors blend India's artistic heritage with contemporary industrial design. Kalamkari-inspired elements, Jodhpur multi-foil arches, heritage textiles, stained glass accents, and rustic lighting come together with modern seating and exposed ceilings to create a space that feels both rooted in tradition and contemporary in style.

Designed to be family-friendly and welcoming, PARVA offers an atmosphere that remains calm and intimate during quieter hours while becoming vibrant and energetic during busy dining periods. Every aspect of the restaurant, from ingredient sourcing to service training, has been carefully planned to deliver a seamless guest experience.

Located on East Coast Road in Akkarai, PARVA enters Chennai's dining scene with a commitment to celebrating India's culinary diversity through honest food, warm hospitality, and meaningful dining experiences.

  • Address: PARVA, Shop No. 10, Shop in a Park, East Coast Road, Sea Cliff Conclave, Akkarai, Panaiyur, Chennai – 600119
  • Timings: 12:30 PM – 3:30 PM (Lunch) | 7:00 PM – 10:30 PM (Dinner)
  • Cuisine: Pan-Indian.

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