Pernod Ricard India Amplifies Premiumization Strategy with Launch of Two New Whiskies

Pernod Ricard India Amplifies Premiumization Strategy with Launch of Two New Whiskies

By Nishang Narayan

Published on August 21, 2024

Pernod Ricard India, a key player in the Indian spirits and wine industry, has unveiled its ambitious plan to triple revenue over the next decade by prioritizing premiumization and innovation. As part of this strategic move, the company has launched two new premium whiskies—Royal Stag Double Dark Peaty Whisky and Blenders Pride Four Elements Premium Whisky. These additions follow the successful introduction of Longitude 77, the first Indian Single Malt by Pernod Ricard.

These launches underscore Pernod Ricard India's commitment to strengthening its position in the rapidly growing premium whisky segment, which has seen evolving consumer preferences in recent years. The company aims to leverage its strong market presence, with Royal Stag and Blenders Pride already holding leadership positions in their respective categories.

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India is a crucial market for the Pernod Ricard Group globally. With 97% of its portfolio produced domestically, Pernod Ricard India's strategy aligns with the government's Make in India initiative. The introduction of these two new whiskies reflects the company's commitment to "innovating in India" by offering distinctive flavors and taste profiles once exclusive to imported whiskies. As India solidifies its status as one of the largest whisky-consuming markets globally, Pernod Ricard India is poised to redefine the whisky experience for aspirational and experimental Indian consumers.

Blenders Pride Four Elements stands out with its innovative blend of four distinct styles of Scotch malts and Indian grain spirits, each representing one of the four elemental forces: Air, Water, Fire, and Earth. This results in a vibrant and intricate flavor profile, further enhanced by its packaging, designed by LOVE INTERNATIONAL (UK), which uses different colors to symbolize the Four Elements.

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Meanwhile, Royal Stag Double Dark Peaty Whisky introduces a smoky blend profile, a first in its segment. It features double-distilled Scotch malts matured in dark charred American and European oak barrels, blended with select peated malt and grain neutral spirits. Its contemporary packaging, crafted by FCB India, further differentiates it in the market.

Sustainability is also at the forefront of these new products. Both feature limited use of mono-cartons during the launch phase, aligning with Pernod Ricard's sustainability commitments under the "Good Times From a Good Place" roadmap.

Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Global Business Development at Pernod Ricard India, highlighted the significance of these launches, stating, "As one of Pernod Ricard group's top three markets, India offers significant opportunities for growth and innovation. Our newest releases, Blenders Pride Four Elements and Royal Stag Double Dark, cater to the changing whisky preferences of discerning Indian consumers. Post the successful launch of our Indian Single Malt Longitude 77, these unique line extensions demonstrate our commitment to innovation and premiumization, something we are truly thrilled about at Pernod Ricard India."

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The company, deeply committed to the "Make in India" initiative, has a 30-year legacy of industry innovation and disruption. The launch of Longitude 77 marked a significant milestone in this commitment, showcasing India's capability in offering ultra-premium, authentic luxury products to the world. With a pioneering spirit, Pernod Ricard India introduced the concept of premiumization to the Indian market, setting industry benchmarks and shifting focus from volume to value-driven strategies.

These strategic launches not only reinforce Pernod Ricard India's commitment to the Indian market but also set the stage for potential global expansion. With Royal Stag available in 44 countries and Blenders Pride in 15, these brands are a testament to the global appeal of Indian spirits.

The products will be rolled out in phases, starting with Royal Stag Double Dark in Maharashtra, Assam, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, followed by Blenders Pride Four Elements in UP, Haryana, Odisha, Telangana, and Goa. A pan-India rollout is expected by December 2024.

Blenders Pride Four Elements is positioned between Blenders Pride and Blenders Pride Reserve Collection, while Royal Stag Double Dark enhances the Royal Stag family's presence in the evolving whisky landscape. These products, priced at a premium to their base variants, aim to attract new blend profile seekers and experimental consumers, establishing new benchmarks in the market.

About Pernod Ricard India

Pernod Ricard India Private Limited (PRI) is a fully owned subsidiary of Pernod Ricard South Asia and is a fast-growing multinational alcohol-beverage company delivering quality products across the country. With a dynamic and premium portfolio led by Seagram's whiskies and a strong commitment to the "Make in India" initiative, Pernod Ricard India continues to set industry standards in innovation and excellence.


Monkey Bar Bengaluru Refreshes Menu with Comfort Classics and Global Twists

Monkey Bar Bengaluru Refreshes Menu with Comfort Classics and Global Twists

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on July 12, 2025

Bengaluru’s favourite urban hangout just got tastier:

Monkey Bar on Museum Road has introduced a new menu — staying true to its spirit while dishing out bold flavours, comfort bites, and international flair. From bar snacks to hearty mains, this refreshed menu adds new favourites to an already vibrant food scene.

Still housed in its signature high-ceilinged space with warm lighting and a buzz of familiar playlists, Monkey Bar remains a go-to for casual lunches, spontaneous dinners, and those long evenings that stretch into the night.

New on the Menu

The update brings a mix of old-school comfort and fresh global flavours. Whether you're into small plates or classic mains, there’s something to satisfy every craving.

Some of the new highlights include:

  • Tuna Cutlet and Classic Paneer Tikka – starters with nostalgic appeal.

  • Chicken Tsukune – Japanese-style skewers that bring izakaya charm.

  • Cheese Burger – a timeless favourite done right.

  • Hariyali Fish Tikka – herb-marinated, perfectly grilled and fresh.

  • Hummus & Pita – a Mediterranean must-have.

  • Loaded Keema Wedges – a spiced Indian take on cheesy indulgence.

  • Military Mutton Biryani – aromatic, slow-cooked and flavour-packed.

  • Mutton Kofta & Appam – a fusion of South Indian and Mughlai richness.

These additions join Monkey Bar’s well-loved staples like comfort bowls, flatbreads, street food-inspired snacks, and its fun mix of cocktails and craft drinks.

Bengaluru’s Living Room, Now More Delicious

Monkey Bar isn’t just a gastropub, it’s a slice of Bengaluru life. It’s where old friends reunite, new plans are born, and spontaneous evenings unfold. The updated menu strengthens its status as a neighbourhood favourite that evolves with the city while keeping its soul intact.

With the right mix of nostalgia, innovation, and good food, Monkey Bar invites you to come hungry  and stay a little longer.

Fact Sheet

  • Address: First Floor, The Museum, No.1, Museum Road, Bengaluru, Karnataka 56000.
  • Timings: Open Daily – 12:00 PM to 1:00 AM.

Blue Tokai Teams Up with Ambrosia Gulf to Enter GCC Market, Debuts in UAE

Blue Tokai Teams Up with Ambrosia Gulf to Enter GCC Market, Debuts in UAE

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 11, 2025

India’s largest and fastest-growing specialty coffee brand, Blue Tokai Coffee Roasters, is making its way to the Gulf. In a strategic move, Blue Tokai has partnered with Ambrosia Gulf, which will serve as its master franchisee for the GCC, starting with a flagship launch in the United Arab Emirates. This marks the brand’s first official foray into the Middle East.

With over 175 cafés across India and an international footprint in Tokyo, this partnership is a key milestone for Blue Tokai as it looks to bring its signature farm-to-cup coffee experience to a new audience.

Ambrosia Gulf, part of the Ambrosia Foods Group and backed by mid-market investment firm Pulsar Capital, will lead the expansion. The firm is already known for operating Papa Johns in India (with its first outlet set for September 2025) and managing Biryani By Kilo in the GCC, underlining its strong cross-border brand management capabilities.

“We’re excited to bring Blue Tokai to the UAE and share its incredible coffee story with the region,” said Vish Narain, Executive Chairman of Ambrosia Gulf. “We’re focused on building brands that prioritize quality, authenticity, and customer experience — values that Blue Tokai exemplifies.”

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Echoing this sentiment, Matt Chitranjan, Co-Founder and CEO of Blue Tokai, said, “It’s an exciting time for us as we grow beyond India into a market that appreciates traceability, craft, and community. Ambrosia Gulf’s operational expertise and deep local insights make them the perfect partners for this journey.”

Adding to this, Shivam Shahi, COO of Blue Tokai, shared, “Partnering with a group that already operates leading food brands across India and the GCC gives us confidence as we scale internationally. This isn’t just expansion — it’s about building a regionally aligned presence while staying true to our values.”

Beyond launching cafés, the partnership also aims to introduce Blue Tokai’s FMCG offerings to the GCC, tapping into HoReCa (Hotels, Restaurants, Cafés) and direct-to-consumer channels, thereby significantly broadening the brand’s reach.

The first Blue Tokai café in the UAE is expected to open by Q4 2025. Coffee lovers can look forward to experiencing Blue Tokai’s celebrated single-estate coffees, manual brewing styles, and a transparent, craftsmanship-driven café environment.


Namak Unveils New Menu Curated by Chef Kishor Singh, Fusing Timeless Indian Flavours with Modern Flair

Namak Unveils New Menu Curated by Chef Kishor Singh, Fusing Timeless Indian Flavours with Modern Flair

By Nishang Narayan

Published on July 11, 2025

Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar, a beloved culinary spot in Greenville for soulful Indian fare, has launched an exciting new menu curated by Sous Chef Kishor Singh. The refreshed menu is a vibrant celebration of India’s rich culinary landscape, seamlessly blending traditional flavours with a touch of modern sophistication.

Chef Kishor Singh, renowned for his deep respect for regional Indian cuisine and innovative approach, has thoughtfully reimagined both vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. The ‘Veg Entrées’ now spotlight regional nuances with creations like Sagg Paneer Pasanda, tandoor-charred Tandoori Paneer Makhni, and the comforting Dum Aloo Banarasi. Popular classics such as Dal Makhni, Raw Mango Curry, and Malai Kofta return with subtle, refined updates, staying true to their authentic roots.

For non-vegetarian lovers, the menu doesn’t disappoint. From the universally adored Butter Chicken to the fiery Laal Maas, each dish is a testament to India’s diverse flavour profiles. Highlights include Old Delhi Mutton Nihari, Prawn Mango Curry, and the coastal-inspired Fish Moilee in a delicate coconut gravy.

“This menu is not just about food, but about storytelling—each dish reflects a part of India’s culinary journey,” shares Chef Singh, whose expertise brings together age-old techniques and contemporary tastes.

Crafted using premium ingredients and traditional spice blends, Namak’s new menu encapsulates the warmth of Indian hospitality while inviting diners to embark on a journey of culinary discovery.

With its elegant ambiance, attentive service, and now an even more enticing menu, Namak Indian Restaurant & Bar continues to solidify its place as a must-visit dining destination in Greenville.

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