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


Jinro Partners with Monika Alcobev to Bring Korea’s No.1 Soju to India’s Fast-Growing Market

Jinro Partners with Monika Alcobev to Bring Korea’s No.1 Soju to India’s Fast-Growing Market

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 5, 2025

India’s premium alcobev market is set for a major boost as Monika Alcobev Limited announces a new partnership with Jinro, the world’s No. 1 spirit and South Korea’s most iconic Soju brand. Through this collaboration, Monika Alcobev will now handle Jinro’s complete India operations, import, distribution, and marketing across key cities.

The partnership comes at a time when Soju is gaining powerful traction in India, driven by the rising influence of Korean cuisine, K-culture, and social trends. With more Indian consumers exploring global drinking formats, Soju has quickly become one of the most dynamic categories in the premium spirits segment.

Kunal Patel, Managing Director of Monika Alcobev, said, “We are proud to add Jinro to our premium portfolio lineup. Soju has grown from a regional favourite to a global phenomenon, and Jinro continues to lead that shift. This partnership reflects our alignment with the market and our ability to grow premium global brands in India.”

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Sharing insights from the trade, Hemang Chandat, Chief Commercial Officer at Monika Alcobev, added, “Demand for Soju is accelerating rapidly in India. With Jinro, we are bringing the most recognised and trusted name in the category. The timing is ideal, and we expect strong momentum from consumers.”

The rollout will begin in major metros including Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Uttar Pradesh, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Goa. Expansion into Tier 1 and Tier 2 cities will follow. To support the launch, consumers can look forward to cultural collaborations, immersive events and dedicated bar programs that highlight authentic Korean experiences.

Popular Jinro variants such as Chamisul Fresh, Green Grape, Plum, Strawberry and Peach will be introduced, giving both loyal Soju fans and first-time drinkers multiple options to explore.

David, Export Manager at HiteJinro Co., Ltd., shared, “We are delighted to introduce Korea’s No. 1 Jinro Soju to Indian consumers through Monika Alcobev’s wide distribution network and strong market presence. India is one of the world’s largest spirit-consuming nations, and together, we believe Jinro Soju will see remarkable growth.”

With this partnership, Monika Alcobev continues to strengthen its premium global portfolio, reaffirming its position as a trusted gateway for international alcobev brands entering India. The collaboration also reflects the company’s focus on sustainable growth, brand-building, and creating meaningful experiences for the modern consumer.


Tealive Set to Open at Reach 3 Roads, Bringing a Global Beverage Experience to Gurugram

Tealive Set to Open at Reach 3 Roads, Bringing a Global Beverage Experience to Gurugram

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 5, 2025

Reach 3 Roads in Sector 70, Gurugram is preparing to welcome Tealive, one of the world’s most popular beverage chains, to its dynamic high-street community. The new outlet, opening soon on the Ground Floor, adds another strong global name to the destination’s expanding lineup of international F&B brands.

Tealive is known for its wide selection of handcrafted beverages, including signature milk teas, fruit teas, coolers and speciality drinks. Its modern, youthful style and globally loved flavours make it a refreshing addition for visitors looking for an everyday beverage experience with an international touch.

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Speaking about the arrival of Tealive, Ramandeep Mokha, Director, Reach Group, shared, “We are excited to welcome Tealive to Reach 3 Roads. Our aim has always been to create a lively, community-focused high-street with varied choices for everyone. Tealive’s global appeal and innovative drink menu align perfectly with our vision of offering meaningful, everyday experiences.”

A well-known destination in Sector 70, Reach 3 Roads brings together retail, wellness, dining and entertainment in a seamless open-air environment. It is home to leading brands such as Samsung, Imagine, Haldirams, Red Tape, Zudio, Zudio Beauty and Croma. With Tealive joining this growing mix, visitors can look forward to an even wider selection of brands in a vibrant setting that reflects the true spirit of a modern, community-driven high street.


Sanook Kitchen Opens Its First India Outlet at Reach 3 Roads, Gurugram

Sanook Kitchen Opens Its First India Outlet at Reach 3 Roads, Gurugram

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on December 5, 2025

Reach 3 Roads in Sector 70, Gurugram has expanded its lively high-street experience with the launch of Sanook Kitchen’s first store in India. Known internationally for its warm, relaxed dining style and affordable Thai dishes, the brand makes its debut in the country with a menu built on fresh ingredients and traditional Thai cooking techniques.

The restaurant offers a wide range of favourites, including Thai curries, wok-fried noodles, rice bowls, classic starters and refreshing beverages, crafted to bring true Thai flavours to everyday dining at approachable prices. With this opening, Reach 3 Roads strengthens its position as a neighbourhood hub that brings global concepts and community convenience together.

Speaking about the launch, Ishwin Singh Hora, Director, Reach Group, said, “We are delighted to welcome Sanook Kitchen to Reach 3 Roads. Our aim has always been to create a high-street destination where global brands and local communities connect easily. The addition of Sanook Kitchen enriches our culinary offerings and supports our focus on providing meaningful, everyday experiences.”

Rohan Kichlu, CEO, New Business Ventures (Sanook Kitchen), added, “Introducing Sanook Kitchen to India is an important milestone for us, and starting at Reach 3 Roads makes it even more special. The destination naturally fits with our brand’s philosophy, and we look forward to offering a warm and authentic Thai dining experience to every visitor.”

With Sanook Kitchen joining the lineup, Reach 3 Roads continues to grow as a vibrant community space where food, fashion, lifestyle and daily conveniences come together. The new opening further strengthens its appeal as a lively and inclusive high-street choice for residents of Sector 70 and nearby neighbourhoods.

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