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


Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills Opens Kokoon - The Asian Nook

Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills Opens Kokoon - The Asian Nook

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 8, 2024

Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, a Tribute Portfolio Resort, has introduced a new dining experience with the opening of Kokoon - The Asian Nook. The restaurant, nestled at the base of the scenic Nandi Hills, promises to blend modern elegance with traditional charm. It offers a serene atmosphere where guests can enjoy a unique blend of Asian cuisine alongside panoramic views and lush greenery.

Devidyuti Ghosh, the Hotel Manager of Mulberry Shades Bengaluru Nandi Hills, shared, “We are excited to bring a second dining option to our esteemed guests, which offers hearty Oriental fare, coupled with batch cocktails made by our expert bartenders, making it a memorable and distinctive dining experience that reflects the serene beauty and quaint boutique charm of our resort.”

Kokoon’s menu features a wide range of carefully curated Asian dishes designed to appeal to both adventurous eaters and those seeking familiar flavors. Standout offerings include the Asian broth with morel goji berries, sourced from the foothills of the Himalayas, and the Soft-Shell Crab and Prawn Summer Roll. Both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available, including dishes such as Kochi Lobster and Bannur Lamb.

The restaurant also boasts a selection of special cocktails, crafted by expert bartenders, to enhance the dining experience. The combination of flavorful cuisine and serene views makes Kokoon a unique addition to the Mulberry Shades dining scene. It aims to cater to both travelers and locals, offering a harmonious blend of casual dining with sophisticated Asian flavors.

Kokoon is set to become a popular destination for both visitors to Nandi Hills and Bangaloreans looking for a culinary retreat. With its thoughtful design and attention to detail, the restaurant creates a relaxing environment where guests can savor high-quality dishes in a peaceful setting.


SirDavis Whiskey Launches in Travel Retail with DFS

SirDavis Whiskey Launches in Travel Retail with DFS

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on September 7, 2024

SirDavis, a new American whiskey created by Moët Hennessy and Beyoncé Knowles-Carter, has been introduced to travel retail with DFS at major US airports. Travelers can now find the premium whiskey at duty-free stores in John F. Kennedy (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), and San Francisco (SFO) International airports. Special tasting sessions are available for passengers at DFS locations within JFK and LAX.

SirDavis whiskey is a tribute to Beyoncé’s great-grandfather, Davis Hogue, a farmer and moonshiner during Prohibition. The design of the bottle reflects the Art Deco style of Hogue’s era, with its sleek, ribbed glass creating an impression of luxury and elegance.

Crafted by Master Distiller Dr. Bill Lumsden, the whiskey features a blend of 51% rye and 49% malted barley, with secondary maturation in sherry casks. This unique combination offers a smooth texture and a flavor profile reminiscent of Japanese and Scotch whiskies while maintaining the robust character of American rye.

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The whiskey’s release in travel retail follows an “overwhelming” pre-order period that began on August 20. SirDavis is now available not only in airports but also in domestic retail across select US states, including California, New York, Texas, and more. The brand has also expanded internationally, with distribution in London, Paris, and Tokyo, and additional markets planned.

SirDavis is designed to stand out on shelves, both in its packaging and flavor. The bottle’s minimal branding and striking design set a new standard for modern luxury spirits. Along with a rich flavor experience, SirDavis offers a nod to tradition and innovation, aiming to appeal to both seasoned whiskey drinkers and new enthusiasts.

Travelers passing through DFS stores can also enjoy exclusive promotions, including a Gift-With-Purchase for DFS Circle App members, and can order the whiskey online for convenient pickup.

For a signature experience, try [Honey Bee], a cocktail paying homage to the brand's founder and crafted using SirDavis American Whisky, fresh lemon juice, and honey syrup, garnished with honeycomb.

Honey Bee

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Ingredients

2 oz SirDavis American Whisky

.75 oz Lemon Juice

.5 oz Honey Syrup*

Garnish: Honeycomb

*To make honey syrup, add 2 parts honey and 1 part water into a small saucepan over medium heat.  Stir until the honey is dissolved. Allow to cool and transfer to an airtight container.

Instructions

Add liquid ingredients to a shaker tin with ice going in last. Shake for dilution and pour into a coupe glass. Garnish with honeycomb.

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Start Your Day with a Luxurious Breakfast at Begam Noida

Start Your Day with a Luxurious Breakfast at Begam Noida

By Nishang Narayan

Published on September 7, 2024

As dawn breaks and the first rays of sunlight spill across Noida, there exists a sanctuary where mornings are not merely welcomed but celebrated in grand style. Begam Noida, an exquisite blend of modern luxury and timeless charm, invites you to begin your day with a breakfast experience that is nothing short of extraordinary.

Every detail at Begam Noida is meticulously curated to elevate both your soul and tastebuds. The air is fragrant with the scent of freshly baked croissants and artisanal breads, complemented by farm-fresh eggs, seasonal fruits, rich yogurt, and a variety of cheeses. The experience is rounded out with steaming coffee and freshly squeezed juices.

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The menu, thoughtfully designed for the discerning palate, offers an array of refined options that seamlessly blend innovation with tradition. Imagine starting your morning with a plate of Short Stack Pancakes, paired with your choice of egg preparations, or perhaps indulging in the Charred Broccoli and Cheddar Scramble, where the earthy flavors of broccoli meet the richness of aged cheddar. For those seeking a touch of the exotic, the Chettinad Uttapam Tacos are a revelation, offering a unique twist on traditional South Indian flavors. And then there is the Smoked Salmon, its silky texture and briny flavor perfectly complemented by the crispness of fresh greens and the tang of lemon.

At Begam, breakfast is not just a meal; it is a ritual, a way to embrace the new day with a sense of luxury and grace. Founded by the esteemed restaurateurs Naresh and Sharad Madan, Begam Noida is more than just a restaurant—it is a celebration of the art of living well. It offers a moment of quiet indulgence, where the worries of the world seem far away, and all that matters is the pleasure of the present.

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For those who seek a luxurious start to their day, there is no better place to be.

Fact Sheet:

  • Address: Begam Noida, Building No 105, opposite Kidzania, Gardens Galleria Mall, Sector 38, Noida, Uttar Pradesh

  • Contact Number: +91 80691 68844

  • Cost for Two: ₹1800 plus taxes

  • Breakfast Timings: 7:30 am to 11:30 am

  • Instagram Link: Begam Noida

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