Raise Your Glass: Haku Vodka from Japan Hits India's Shores

Raise Your Glass: Haku Vodka from Japan Hits India's Shores

By Author

Published on September 29, 2023

India, brace yourself for a taste of Japan like never before, as Beam Suntory, the global leader in premium spirits, unveils the latest gem from the House of Suntory. Following the resounding success of The House of Suntory portfolio's launch in December 2019, the spotlight now shines on India with the introduction of Haku® Vodka.

Derived from the finest Japanese ingredients, Haku® Vodka is a testament to the nature and spirit of Japan. It embodies the core principles of Suntory founder Shinjiro Torii's Monozukuri craftsmanship—a relentless pursuit of perfection, meticulous attention to detail, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

In a country where vodka's versatility has captured the hearts of consumers, the arrival of Haku® Vodka is set to make waves in the vodka market. Neeraj Kumar, Managing Director of Beam Suntory India, expresses their excitement, stating, "Vodka continues to gain prominence as a sought-after spirit amongst Indian consumers due to its versatility. Delivering a distinctive experience and establishing a unique presence in the vodka market, we bring yet another addition from our esteemed House of Suntory portfolio in India with the launch of Haku® Vodka."

The name "Haku," meaning 'white and brilliant' in Japanese, pays homage to the key ingredient, "Hakumai," a pure, white Japanese rice symbolising Japan's essence. This rice is meticulously milled, polished, and distilled, resulting in a "junpaku," a clear, clean, and luminous vodka. What makes Haku® Vodka truly exceptional is its filtration process through bamboo charcoal, adding a touch of sophistication and complexity to the vodka's natural flavour.

Haku® Vodka's design blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern sensibilities, creating a minimalist and artisanal product that beautifully celebrates Japanese craftsmanship.

India is not the sole destination for Haku® Vodka. This premium spirit is set to take flight across multiple markets, including Maharashtra, Goa, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and Telangana. With prices ranging from INR 3,950 to INR 6,140, it promises to set an unprecedented benchmark in the vodka category.

Haku® Vodka, an embodiment of quality, tradition, and innovation, marks a significant step in Beam Suntory's mission to elevate its premium portfolio in India, further enriching the vibrant landscape of Indian spirits.

As The House of Suntory celebrates a century of whisky innovation, the introduction of Haku® Vodka reaffirms Suntory's commitment to heritage and a relentless pursuit of crafting exceptional spirits. Beam Suntory invites India to savour the essence of Japanese craftsmanship with each sip of Haku® Vodka.

Image Source: The Whiskey Exchange


Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

Gracia Cero Brings Mindful Drinking to the Fore

By Hariharan U

Published on January 11, 2026

Kantala Spirits has introduced Gracia Cero, a new-age beverage that encourages mindful drinking while keeping the joy of social occasions intact. Positioned clearly as not anti-alcohol, Cero supports choice, moderation, and inclusivity, giving consumers the freedom to enjoy gatherings on their own terms.

Gracia Cero stands out as India’s first non-alcoholic agave drink, created for people looking to reset after festive indulgence, take part in Dry January, or simply adopt a more balanced drinking approach. The focus remains on flavour and experience, ensuring that choosing a zero-alcohol option never feels like a compromise.

Designed to fit seamlessly into parties, work events, and everyday social settings, Cero allows everyone at the table to feel included. Whether it’s a casual get-together or a formal gathering, the drink offers a refined alternative that blends in naturally with modern social rituals.

Completely alcohol-free and sugar-free, Gracia Cero contains 0% ABV and just 4 calories per serving. Made using agave, it delivers a clean, refreshing profile without alcohol, making it suitable for those prioritising health, detox routines, or mindful living, while still enjoying a premium beverage.

The brand brings a bold approach to flavour with two distinct variants, Raw ‘n’ Wild Mango and Pineapple Piñata. These flavour-forward options add a playful yet elevated touch, challenging the idea that non-alcoholic drinks need to be plain or predictable.

With Gracia Cero, Kantala Spirits aims to reshape modern drinking culture by offering a guilt-free way to raise a glass. Free from sugary mixers, next-day fatigue, or social pressure, Cero fits effortlessly into evolving lifestyle choices where balance and enjoyment go hand in hand.


Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

Punjab Grill Expands Footprint with 57th Outlet in Thane

By Hariharan U

Published on January 9, 2026

Punjab Grill, the flagship North Indian dining brand from Lite Bite Foods, has marked a new milestone with the opening of its 57th outlet at Lakeshore, Viviana Mall, Thane. The launch reinforces the brand’s steady expansion across key urban markets while bringing its heritage-driven culinary offering closer to diners in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.

The newly opened restaurant reflects Punjab Grill’s signature design language, an elegant blend of warmth, nostalgia, and modern sophistication. Thoughtfully curated interiors and a welcoming ambience create a versatile dining environment suited for family gatherings, business lunches, and celebratory occasions.

Staying true to its culinary philosophy, the menu showcases Punjab Grill’s well-known repertoire inspired by the royal kitchens of undivided Punjab, age-old recipes, and the region’s vibrant food culture. Guests can expect robust flavours, slow-cooked preparations, and meticulously crafted dishes that balance authenticity with contemporary presentation.

Commenting on the launch, Rohit Aggarwal, Founder and Managing Director, Lite Bite Foods, said, “Thane has emerged as a dynamic dining destination with an audience that values quality, legacy, and innovation. With our 57th outlet at Viviana Mall, we aim to address this growing demand by offering an immersive dining experience that celebrates the rich culinary traditions of North India.”

With this addition, Punjab Grill continues to strengthen its nationwide presence, reaffirming its commitment to celebrating heritage-led cuisine while evolving with modern dining preferences. The Thane outlet represents the brand’s focus on expanding into high-footfall urban centres with a strong appetite for premium dining experiences.


Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Launches Formaggi d’Italia: A Cheese-Centric Culinary Experience

Romanos at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Launches Formaggi d’Italia: A Cheese-Centric Culinary Experience

By Hariharan U

Published on January 8, 2026

Romanos, the city’s premier destination for authentic Italian cuisine at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar, is set to unveil Formaggi d’Italia, a refined, cheese-led culinary experience. Launching on 7th January 2026, the showcase celebrates Italian cheese through craftsmanship, storytelling, and interactive dining.

Inspired by Italy’s regional cheese culture, Formaggi d’Italia begins with an artisanal cheese board featuring Bocconcini, Mozzarella, Gorgonzola, pine nut-crusted goat cheese, Pecorino, and Provolone, paired with pecan nuts, JW herb crackers, and mostarda.

Guests can then indulge in a range of cheese-forward pastas including Four Root Cheese Gnocchi with Brie, Fettuccine Quattro Formaggi, and Tortellini alla Fonduta. The experience continues with comforting mains such as Chicken Parmigiana and Spinach Ricotta Lasagna with Brie, and concludes with classic Italian desserts like Tiramisu and Sicilian Cannoli filled with Ricotta.

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“Formaggi d’Italia brings together craftsmanship, indulgence, and storytelling,” said a spokesperson for Romanos. “It reaffirms Romanos as a destination where authentic Italian flavours are elevated through immersive, experience-led dining.”

About JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar
JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar combines elegance and sophistication, conveniently located near Mumbai’s international and domestic airports. The hotel features 588 spacious rooms, world-class dining including Romanos, JW Café, BarQat, and AUTM – JW Lounge, as well as 95,781 sq.ft. of convention spaces, and Spa by JW, Asia Pacific’s first, offering holistic wellness therapies.

For more details, visit www.jwmumbai.com.

About Marriott International
Marriott International operates nearly 9,500 properties in 144 countries under 30+ brands. Marriott Bonvoy® offers a highly awarded travel platform. For the latest news, visit Marriott News Center or follow @MarriottIntl on social media.

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