Midleton Distillery Releases Its Most Aged Whiskey Ever

Midleton Distillery Releases Its Most Aged Whiskey Ever

By Nishang Narayan

Published on April 13, 2024

Midleton Distillery has unveiled a landmark release in its prestigious Silent Distillery Collection—Chapter Five. This 49-year-old whiskey is not only Midleton’s oldest to date but also a testament to the art of whiskey-making. Distilled back in 1973 by the then Master Distiller Max Crockett using the world’s largest pot still, it represents a bridge across generations of distillers.

Kevin O’Gorman, the current Master Distiller, describes this release as "an exceptional liquid that exceeds expectations," inviting whiskey lovers to a unique tasting journey that combines rich history with exquisite craftsmanship.

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The whiskey matured in an American ex-bourbon barrel selected for its quality and historical significance. After nearly five decades, the result is a complex profile of fruits, nuts, and spices, rounded off with a long, satisfying finish of caramel and oak. The sensory journey begins with delicate fruit notes, evolving into deeper flavours of dark chocolate and herbal tea, seasoned with a hint of spices.

Adding to its exclusivity, the final six months of maturation took place in a special barrel, repaired in the mid-1970s by Dominic Buckley, a renowned cooper. This cask, maintained over the years by Buckley's son Ger, now the Master Cooper, is emblematic of the craftsmanship passed down through generations.

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Each bottle of Chapter Five is encased in a hand blown decanter from Waterford Crystal and housed in a custom-designed cabinet by Irish designer John Galvin. Made from tiger brown oak burr and accented with reclaimed oak from Irish whiskey vats, the packaging itself is a collector’s item.

Priced at €55,000, this exquisite whiskey is available in select markets, including the US, UK, and Europe, making it a must-have for collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.


Amara’s ‘Death by Chocolate’ Becomes Bengaluru’s Go-To Dessert Indulgence

Amara’s ‘Death by Chocolate’ Becomes Bengaluru’s Go-To Dessert Indulgence

By Hariharan U

Published on April 15, 2026

In a city that takes its food seriously, from iconic biryanis to cult-favourite cafés, there’s a dessert steadily building its own loyal following. At Amara, the spotlight is on one standout creation, Death by Chocolate.

While the name may be familiar, Amara’s version goes beyond the usual. This isn’t just a dessert; it’s a carefully layered experience. Built with rich brownies, creamy malai kulfi, and warm chocolate sauce, it is finished with crunchy nuts and a generous topping of whipped cream. Each element is thoughtfully balanced, delivering a texture that is smooth, indulgent, and deeply satisfying without tipping into excessive sweetness.

What sets it apart is its authenticity. Unlike many overly sugary or artificial variations, Amara’s Death by Chocolate feels grounded and real, offering a more refined indulgence that appeals to Bengaluru’s discerning palate.

The portion size adds to its appeal. It is hearty enough to share, yet indulgent enough to enjoy solo, making every bite feel worthwhile. It’s the kind of dessert that earns repeat visits, much like a beloved main course.

Open daily from 12 PM to 1 AM, Amara has quietly carved out a space as a go-to hangout for late-night cravings and spontaneous dessert outings. With availability on Swiggy and Zomato, it’s also easily accessible across the city.

Beyond this signature dessert, Amara positions itself as a premium frozen dessert brand rooted in Indian tradition. By collaborating with generational halwais and skilled sweet makers, the brand reimagines classic flavours into contemporary formats, bridging heritage with modern indulgence. Operating from its flagship store in Indiranagar along with satellite locations across Bengaluru, Amara continues to bring timeless Indian desserts to a new generation of diners.

With creations like Death by Chocolate, it’s clear that in Bengaluru’s evolving food scene, desserts are no longer an afterthought—they’re the main event.


SOL55 Brings Honest Drinks and Soulful Food to Bengaluru

SOL55 Brings Honest Drinks and Soulful Food to Bengaluru

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 14, 2026

SOL55 has opened its doors in Koramangala, Bengaluru, bringing a fresh take on the neighbourhood bar concept. Built around the idea of warmth, energy, and familiarity, the space takes inspiration from the sun “SOL” and the natural flow of urban life, creating an experience that feels polished yet easy-going.

In a city known for its fast-changing bar scene, SOL55 focuses on consistency and comfort rather than trends. Designed as a place people can return to, it offers a setting where weekday catch-ups and weekend plans come together naturally. The bar aims to strike a balance between premium quality and approachable pricing, making it accessible without losing its charm.

What sets SOL55 apart is its clear focus on everyday social experiences. The bar is built around honest pours, soulful food, and a relaxed atmosphere, avoiding both high-priced menus and overly loud settings. The idea is simple — quality drinks, good food, and a space where guests feel at ease.

Sharing the thought behind the concept, Yuvaraja HS of Sol55 said,

“With SOL55, we wanted to create the kind of bar we ourselves kept looking for in Bengaluru, one that feels familiar, dependable, and easy to come back to. The idea was never about chasing trends, but about building a neighbourhood space where people can enjoy good food, honest drinks, and genuine company without overthinking it. Koramangala felt like the right home for this vision, and SOL55 is our way of giving the city a bar that grows with its people,”

Food plays a key role in the overall experience at SOL55. The menu focuses on regional and comforting dishes that pair well with drinks. One of the highlights is the selection of regional thalis, designed for guests looking for a wholesome meal. The Coastal Thali stands out with its seafood-inspired flavours, while both vegetarian and non-vegetarian platters cater to groups and casual dining.

The bar menu follows a similar approach, offering cocktails that are simple, well-made, and familiar with a local touch. Inspired by Bengaluru and beyond, the drinks aim to balance classic styles with subtle twists.

SOL55 is positioned as more than just a bar. It aims to be a community space in Koramangala where colleagues unwind after work, friends meet regularly, and guests enjoy a consistent experience. With warm interiors, thoughtful service, and a welcoming vibe, the space focuses on comfort over show.

Reflecting its philosophy, the brand identity is built around themes of energy, balance, and celebration. SOL55 aims to become a reliable neighbourhood spot in Bengaluru’s nightlife, offering quality experiences without making them feel out of reach.


The Leela Gandhinagar Unveils Soulful All-Day Menu at Moksha Lounge

The Leela Gandhinagar Unveils Soulful All-Day Menu at Moksha Lounge

By Hariharan U

Published on April 14, 2026

At Moksha Lounge within The Leela Gandhinagar, dining takes on a slower, more mindful pace. With the launch of its newly curated all-day menu, the lounge brings together comfort and refinement through the philosophy of tripti,a feeling of fulfilment rooted in good food, meaningful conversations, and unhurried moments.

Designed to flow with the rhythm of the day, the menu transitions effortlessly from light bites to indulgent selections. Whether it’s a casual meeting, a laid-back afternoon, or a relaxed evening, Moksha positions itself as a space where guests can settle in and savour the experience.

The new offering leans into experiential dining, focusing on shareable plates and familiar favourites with a creative twist. Standout dishes include the Kanda Waffle, Khakhra Mexicana, Kheema Matar Phyllo Bite, and signature burgers. These are complemented by refreshing coolers that reinterpret classic flavours with a contemporary edge.

Adding depth to the experience is a thoughtfully crafted beverage programme featuring handcrafted mocktails and refreshing blends, ideal for both social catch-ups and quiet unwinding.

For those with a sweet tooth, the patisserie selection offers a refined pause. Freshly baked delights and elegant desserts pair seamlessly with boutique coffees and premium teas, encouraging guests to linger a little longer.

Speaking about the launch, Vikas Sood, General Manager, The Leela Gandhinagar, shared, “Moksha has always been envisioned as a place guests return to for comfort and familiarity. With this new menu, we wanted to create an experience that feels welcoming and complete, where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy moments that extend beyond the meal itself.”

With this refreshed menu, Moksha Lounge evolves into more than just a dining space, it becomes a vibrant social hub within the hotel. Blending flavour, comfort, and conversation, it invites guests to drop in anytime and turn everyday moments into memorable experiences.

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