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.


ibis Hyderabad Introduces The Groove Hub, Its New Open-Air Dining Space

ibis Hyderabad Introduces The Groove Hub, Its New Open-Air Dining Space

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 30, 2025

ibis Hyderabad has introduced The Groove Hub, its brand-new open-air dining destination designed to match the brand’s energetic and youthful personality. The space brings together relaxed seating, warm lighting and upbeat décor, creating an ambience where guests can enjoy conversations, food and music in a free-flowing, easy way. The venue reflects the spirit of today’s modern traveller as well as the city’s local crowd, offering a comfortable spot to unwind.

Sharing his thoughts on the launch, Tejus Jose, director of operations, ibis & ibis Styles India, said, “At ibis, we’ve always believed in creating spaces that blend great design, comfort, and a sense of community. The Groove Hub is an embodiment of that belief, a lively open-air venue where people can unwind, connect, and enjoy memorable culinary experiences. It’s an exciting new addition that complements the overall vibe of ibis Hyderabad.”

Adding to this, John Surendranath, general manager, ibis Hyderabad, said, “The Groove Hub is a passion project for our team, a space that reflects Hyderabad’s evolving dining culture while staying true to ibis’ approachable charm. Hyderabad is a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, and we wanted The Groove Hub to mirror that spirit. Our goal was to create an inviting alfresco setting where guests can savour innovative dishes, sip on refreshing mocktails, and unwind after a busy day in this vibrant metropolis. It’s designed to feel like an escape within the city, vibrant, soulful, and full of rhythm, just like Hyderabad itself.”

With its inviting atmosphere, flavour-packed dishes and signature ibis charm, The Groove Hub aims to become a go-to spot for relaxed afternoons, lively brunches and easy-going evenings. Whether guests want to enjoy a sunny meal or settle in for a calm dinner under the stars, the venue offers a refreshing new dining experience at ibis Hyderabad.


Karigari Unveils a Winter Menu Filled With Warmth, Memory and Tradition

Karigari Unveils a Winter Menu Filled With Warmth, Memory and Tradition

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on November 30, 2025

Karigari by Chef Harpal Singh Sokhi has rolled out its Limited Edition Winter Menu, a spread that celebrates the warmth of North Indian winters. Crafted with seasonal produce and memories from Chef Harpal’s own family kitchens, the menu blends homely comfort with nostalgic flavours.

The experience begins with dishes that instantly bring back winter-time aromas. The Singhade and Shakarkandi ki Chaat carries the tangy and smoky feel of roasted shakarkandi carts that once dotted Delhi’s streets. The Amritsari Paya Shorba served with Khameeri Naan brings the bustling charm of Amritsar’s lanes, while the Silbatte ki Pahadi Dal offers a rustic, earthy touch with roasted lentils and zakhia-seed tempering. For those who love simple, homestyle winter meals, the Methi Bathua Paratha and Saag Murgh offer the familiar comfort associated with Punjabi homes.

At the heart of the menu is the season’s most loved classic. The Sarson ka Saag with Masala Makai Paratha Thaali brings together fresh winter greens and slow cooking, inspired by the flavours of Chef Harpal’s nani’s kitchen in Patti. The dessert selection takes the warmth a step further. The Kali Gaajar ka Halwa with Panjiri is made the traditional way, while the Akhirot & Anjeer ka Halwa adds a rich, layered sweetness, finished with crisp kataifi and fresh pear.

To complete the winter experience, Karigari also brings back its seasonal Mulled Wine, gently warmed with citrus and whole spices for a cosy finish to the meal.

Every dish on this menu leans into winter’s produce, rituals and nostalgia, giving diners a meal that feels homely, comforting and perfect for the season.

Fact Sheet:

● Outlet: Available across pan-India in 11 outlets (Noida Sector 51, Noida Sector 142, Karkardooma, Punjabi Bagh, Civil Lines, Faridabad, Connaught Place, Indore, Dehradun, Bangalore, Gurugram)

● Timing: 12 PM - 12 AM


IGP Launches First-Ever Global Cake Collection Featuring Flavours From Eight Countries

IGP Launches First-Ever Global Cake Collection Featuring Flavours From Eight Countries

By Hariharan U

Published on November 29, 2025

IGP, one of India’s leading D2C gifting platforms and a strong name in the cakes category, has launched a first-ever limited-edition Global Cake Collection, bringing iconic flavours from eight countries to the Indian market. With cakes becoming an essential part of modern celebrations, the brand aims to offer a fresh, imaginative way of enjoying desserts inspired by global cultures.

Launched on World Cake Day, the campaign revolves around the idea that every cake tells a story. To mark the occasion, IGP introduced Cakes of the World, a chef-crafted collection that showcases globally inspired flavours paired with IGP’s signature craftsmanship and attention to detail.

The limited-edition range features eight distinct creations:

  • France: Smooth Salted Caramel

  • Italy: Rich Mocha Espresso

  • Belgium: Indulgent Chocolate Truffle

  • Switzerland: Velvety Hazelnut Praline

  • Canada: Fluffy Blueberry Cream

  • India: Festive Rasmalai

  • United States: Classic Red Velvet

  • UAE: Decadent Chocolate Kunafa

Each cake highlights a beloved flavour story from its region, presenting a blend of cultural inspiration, culinary creativity, and global indulgence.

Speaking about the launch, Tarun Joshi, Founder and CEO, IGP, said, “IGP has always been at the forefront of redefining the cake experience in India, and there couldn’t be a more perfect day than World Cake Day to deepen that association. With this year’s campaign, we are introducing Cakes of the World—an invitation to enjoy international flavours and celebrate the joy and indulgence that the year-end season brings. It’s our way of sharing the world’s most loved cakes, crafted in a distinctly IGP way.”

The campaign is supported by a multi-platform rollout, including teasers, digital content, creator collaborations, and communication across the brand’s website, email, and WhatsApp channels. With a strong focus on storytelling and flavour exploration, IGP aims to make World Cake Day a moment of global celebration rather than just an annual observance.

IGP continues to lead innovation in the cakes category, from developing chef-driven signature flavours to building a robust nationwide delivery network. The brand has delivered over 1,500 tons of cakes across India, enough to fill more than 650 food trucks, marking millions of celebrations across the country.

About IGP:

IGP is one of the largest D2C gifting companies with offices in India, Singapore, and Dubai. The International Gifts Platform offers a wide range of festival merchandise, gifts, flowers, cakes, plants, gourmet foods, and personalised products. With customers across 100+ countries and 1000+ Indian cities, the brand has created over 20 million gifting experiences so far.

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