Radico Khaitan Secures Dual Wins at 2024 Just Drinks Excellence Awards

Radico Khaitan Secures Dual Wins at 2024 Just Drinks Excellence Awards

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 10, 2024

Radico Khaitan Limited, one of India's largest players in the Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) industry, has further solidified its global presence by winning two prestigious awards at the 2024 Just Drinks Excellence Awards. These accolades not only underscore the company’s dedication to innovation but also highlight India’s growing stature in the global spirits market. Radico Khaitan continues to demonstrate its ability to create world-class products that balance tradition with modern consumer expectations.

The company received the Innovation Award for its Sangam World Malt Whisky, a product that blends the rich traditions of Western whisky-making with the artistry of Eastern craftsmanship. Sangam World Malt Whisky has captured the attention of whisky enthusiasts worldwide for its complex and harmonious flavor profile. The whisky features tropical fruit notes, spices, and a subtle peaty undertone, creating a sophisticated experience that appeals to a global audience. The fusion of East and West in Sangam’s creation is a celebration of cultural convergence, making it more than just a beverage but a symbol of unity between two distinct traditions.

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Additionally, Radico Khaitan won the Product Launches Award for its Rampur Jugalbandi Series, which has garnered international recognition for its innovative use of Tokaji and Madeira wine cask finishes. These cask finishes are rarely used in the whisky world, making the Jugalbandi Series a standout in the global spirits market. The resulting flavor profile is unique, offering a novel and complex tasting experience that elevates the series above many of its competitors. The concept of “Jugalbandi,” inspired by Indian classical music, represents a duet of two solo musicians, symbolizing the harmonious blending of diverse flavors. This approach demonstrates Radico Khaitan’s mastery in blending tradition with innovation, creating a whisky series that stands out on the global stage.

“There is an undeniable allure to India’s rich heritage, and through our spirits, we strive to bring the very essence of India to the world. The success of Sangam World Malt Whisky and the Rampur Jugalbandi Series—both in the hearts of consumers and in prestigious recognitions such as the Just Drinks Excellence Awards—is a testament to the exceptional quality and innovation that define our brands. Winning these two awards is not only a significant honour for Radico Khaitan but also a moment of immense pride for India. Our products, crafted with the finest attention to detail at Rampur Distillery, embody the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. It fills us with great satisfaction to see them celebrated on the global stage,” said Mr. Abhishek Khaitan, Managing Director of Radico Khaitan Limited.

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“There is mysticism about India and our vision is to share the best India has to offer with the world in the beverage alcohol space. Our innovative products are being accepted the world over, exemplifying the rich heritage and exceptional craftmanship that we practice at Rampur Distillery. It is an honor win two awards at the Just Drinks Excellence Awards for Sangam World Malt Whisky and Rampur Jugalbandi series”, stated Sanjeev Banga, President, International Business, Radico Khaitan Ltd.

Radico Khaitan’s success at the Just Drinks Excellence Awards is not just a win for the company but a significant achievement for India’s spirits industry. The awards serve as a testament to India’s ability to produce world-class spirits that can compete with and excel against global brands. Radico Khaitan’s innovative approach, rooted in deep respect for tradition and craftsmanship, continues to garner international acclaim.

Founded in 1943, Radico Khaitan Limited has grown into one of India’s leading IMFL manufacturers. Initially known as Rampur Distillery, the company has developed a diverse portfolio of brands that include Rampur Indian Single Malt Whiskies, Magic Moments Vodka, Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin, and the well-known 8PM Whisky. Over the years, the company has built a strong reputation for its commitment to quality and innovation, with many of its brands becoming household names in India and abroad.

The Sangam World Malt Whisky and Rampur Jugalbandi Series are crafted at the company’s Rampur Distillery, located in Uttar Pradesh at the foothills of the Himalayas. This distillery is known for its precise craftsmanship, where every detail of the distillation, aging, and blending processes is meticulously managed to create products of exceptional quality. 


Ayana Rooftop Restaurant Opens at Udaipur Marriott Hotel

Ayana Rooftop Restaurant Opens at Udaipur Marriott Hotel

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 20, 2025

Udaipur Marriott Hotel has unveiled Ayana, its newest rooftop dining destination, offering guests a transcendent culinary journey set against the shimmering lakes and Aravalli Hills. True to its name, which means “the path,” Ayana guides diners through an immersive experience that begins with its serene poolside ambiance and culminates with indulgent desserts.

The restaurant’s design harmoniously blends contemporary Indian aesthetics with natural materials, oversized cushions, glowing lanterns, and curated world music, creating an atmosphere that is both vibrant and serene. The panoramic rooftop views add a magical dimension to every visit.

Ayana’s menu celebrates India’s royal culinary legacy, drawing inspiration from the Northwest Frontier and the regal kitchens of Rajasthan. Each dish is crafted with precision, honouring its origins while presenting a modern twist. The bar complements the menu with artisanal cocktails infused with Indian botanicals, spices, and local flavours, alongside a curated selection of fine wines and craft beers.

Designed for intimate dinners, celebratory gatherings, and exclusive events, Ayana offers a mix of communal seating, semi-private corners, and open decks. The restaurant is also deeply committed to sustainability, prioritizing locally sourced seasonal produce, plant-forward innovations, minimal food waste, energy-efficient kitchens, and elimination of single-use plastics.

Executive Chef Mohit Mishra commented on the launch:

“We are thrilled to officially welcome guests to Ayana. Our vision was to create more than just a restaurant, we wanted to craft a journey where each dish tells a story, each flavour evokes tradition, and every detail reflects India’s rich culinary heritage.”

Vaibhav Sagar, General Manager, added:

“Ayana is designed to be an immersive experience, not just a dining venue. From the sweeping rooftop views to the thoughtfully curated menu and serene yet vibrant ambiance, every element has been meticulously crafted to create lasting memories for both travellers and locals seeking a refined night out.”

Ayana promises to be a destination for culinary discovery, offering diners a seamless blend of tradition, innovation, and unforgettable experiences atop one of Udaipur’s most scenic rooftops.


1.5 Degree Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with New Beverages, Sundaes, Kulfi, and Popsicles

1.5 Degree Expands Plant-Based Portfolio with New Beverages, Sundaes, Kulfi, and Popsicles

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on October 18, 2025

1.5 Degree, India’s leading plant-based dairy alternative brand, has unveiled an exciting new range of signature beverages, frozen sundaes, traditional kulfis, and refreshing popsicles this festive season. The announcement comes on the heels of the company securing seed funding from BITS Pilani and being recognised among its top emerging startups.

The new collection reflects 1.5 Degree’s philosophy of combining indulgence with responsibility. Designed for the conscious consumer, the range features sugar-free café-style beverages like Kesar Badam, Salted Pistachio, Hazelnut Coffee, and Cold Vegan Tea, crafted for refreshing, guilt-free sips.

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The Frozen Sundaes promise rich, layered indulgence in flavours like Salted Peanut Butter and Nutty Choco Fudge, while the Kulfi Collection, also sugar-free, reimagines the classic Indian favourite with plant-based innovation. The Popsicle lineup includes fruity and tangy favourites such as Chilly Guava, Jamun, and Shikanji, complemented by rotating seasonal sorbets for an extra-refreshing twist.

“At 1.5 Degree, we believe in indulgence without compromise,” said Vedansh Goyal, Founder of 1.5Degree.co. “With the overwhelming response to our gelatos, this new range brings familiar Indian favourites like kulfi and shikanji into the plant-based space, while also offering global café-style beverages, now with sugar-free options that keep taste front and centre.”

All products are 100% plant-based, dairy-free, lactose-free, and cholesterol-free, made using natural ingredients without artificial additives or preservatives. Ethically sourced and responsibly produced, the brand reinforces its mission to support a cooler planet while offering full-flavoured experiences.

1.5 Degree’s new offerings are available across Delhi NCR and Mumbai through select retail outlets, quick-commerce platforms, kiosks, and cloud kitchens. Orders can also be placed online via Swiggy, Zomato, or directly at 1.5degree.co.

Founded with a vision to make plant-based indulgence mainstream, 1.5 Degree continues to expand its product line with an aim to merge taste, sustainability, and innovation, one scoop and sip at a time.


BarQat Returns to JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar with a Celebration of Abundance

BarQat Returns to JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar with a Celebration of Abundance

By Hariharan U

Published on October 16, 2025

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar has opened the doors to its latest dining experience, BarQat, a restaurant that reimagines India’s rich culinary traditions through the lens of heritage and innovation. Meaning “abundance” in Urdu, BarQat captures the spirit of generosity and connection through food, celebrating regional flavours from Kashmir, Lucknow, Bhopal, and Hyderabad.

Designed as a culinary journey along India’s historical route, BarQat brings together the nuanced flavours and stories of these four regions, each offering its own interpretation of classic dishes. The restaurant’s philosophy is simple yet profound, to honour heirloom recipes while giving them a contemporary touch. Every dish tells a story of how shared roots evolved into diverse traditions across India’s culinary landscape.

Speaking about the relaunch, Sachin Mylavarapu, General Manager at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, said, “At JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, we believe true luxury is found in abundance — abundance of flavour, culture, connection, and celebration. The relaunch of BarQat embodies this philosophy. We've created a space where Straight-line Cuisine comes to life and the abundance of India's culinary heritage unfolds through heirloom recipes passed down through generations. Here, every gathering becomes an opportunity to foster deeper bonds with loved ones. From the lavish spread of regional delicacies to the warm embrace of shared meals, BarQat is designed for those special moments of togetherness. It's about celebrating abundance in every form — on your plate, in your conversations, and in the memories you create.”

Open daily from 7:00 PM to midnight, BarQat offers guests a place to unwind, celebrate, and savour the flavours of India’s most storied kitchens. With its rich textures, soulful aromas, and immersive storytelling, BarQat promises a dining experience that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Guests can reserve their tables by calling +91 7710009250 or visiting www.jwmumbai.com.

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