Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

Shankar Distillers Opens High-Tech Distillery in Troy, Michigan

By Nithyakala Neelakandan

Published on July 28, 2024

Shankar Distillers, the latest venture by tech entrepreneur Varchasvi Shankar, has officially opened in Troy, Michigan. This advanced distillery features a state-of-the-art 45-foot continuous distillation column, so large that the distillery's roof had to be modified to accommodate it. Located in an industrial park, the distillery's glass ceiling is a distinctive landmark visible from I-75, just north of the 14 Mile exit near Oakland Mall.

Varchasvi Shankar, the first Indian immigrant to open an American whiskey distillery, celebrated the grand opening of Shankar Distillers on Friday, July 12. Shankar has also expanded into international markets, making the Varchas Whiskey line the first American craft bourbon exported to India. The distillery team includes master distiller Kylash Sivakumar and senior advisor Dennis Archer Jr., who have together crafted several award-winning spirits. Among their accolades is the Varchas Reserve 102 Straight Bourbon Whiskey, which won gold at the 2024 San Francisco World Spirits Competition for its smooth, earthy flavor profile featuring notes of wood, leather, tobacco, and caramel.

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Shankar expressed his enthusiasm for sharing these whiskeys directly with the public. “This is a dream come true for me. I never imagined that I would open a distillery in the USA. I came here for a technology career, but whiskey has always been my passion, and I'm thrilled to bring this unique cultural experience to the people of this country,” he said. “I'm excited to see visitors experience in person the fusion of Eastern and Western traditions in our spirits.”

Shankar Distillers offers a range of spirits, including Varchas Reserve Straight Bourbon Whiskey, Varchas Straight Rye Whiskey, Dasara Gin, and Varchas Vodka. Visitors can purchase these products along with branded merchandise like whiskey glasses, flasks, and T-shirts. The tasting room features plush lounge seating and a premium atmosphere, with a diverse cocktail menu that includes classics like Manhattans and barrel-aged sazeracs, as well as a unique gin and tonic made with Indian tonic. House specialties also include the “Gimme Some More,” made with Varchas Vodka, cucumber, and elderflower liqueur.

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Shankar Distillers stands out not just for its story of transitioning from tech to distilling but also for the beauty of its bottles. The 750 ml glass bottles feature a two-headed eagle on the label, a symbol of Shankar’s home state of Mysore in southern India, and a 3D eagle on the cork, highlighting Shankar’s accomplishments in the United States. The distillery is proud of its Michigan roots, using locally sourced water and corn in its products.

For those interested in visiting, Shankar Distillers at 1030 Chicago Road in Troy is open from 3-10 p.m. Wednesday through Thursday, 3 p.m.-midnight on Friday, 11 a.m.-midnight on Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. on Sunday. Tours are available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday afternoons. 

For more information, visit shankardistillers.com.


JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Introduces ‘Matcha Moments’ at Autm

JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar Introduces ‘Matcha Moments’ at Autm

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

In a city that is always on the move, Autm at JW Marriott Mumbai Sahar is bringing a refreshing pause with the launch of Matcha Moments, starting 21st January 2026. The new experience invites guests to slow down, reset, and enjoy a sense of calm through carefully prepared matcha-based beverages.

Blending age-old tradition with modern tastes, Matcha Moments goes beyond being just a trend. The menu highlights matcha’s natural energy boost, antioxidant benefits, and its distinctive umami flavour. Guests can choose from hand-whisked ceremonial Matcha Tea, creamy Matcha Lattes, and cooling iced options. Signature creations include the Strawberry Iced Matcha Latte, Coconut Matcha Cloud, and the zesty Matcha Yuzu Spritz, each designed to offer a balance of taste, ritual, and refreshment.

Available throughout the day at Autm, Matcha Moments presents a thoughtfully curated menu that brings together tradition and contemporary flavours. Positioned as both a mindful treat and an everyday essential, the experience reflects a modern approach to wellness-led dining in Mumbai.


Stock Up Before Dry Days Hit: 4 Bottles for the Long Weekend Swing

Stock Up Before Dry Days Hit: 4 Bottles for the Long Weekend Swing

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on January 24, 2026

This Republic Day long weekend brings with it calm evenings, loud nights, and plans that often come together at the last minute. With dry days around January 26, stocking up in advance becomes essential. A ready bar sets the tone, whether it’s an intimate house gathering or a lively hosting scene. This curated selection brings together refined craftsmanship, celebrity-backed labels, and bold new-age spirits. Each bottle earns its place, with no fillers and no compromises.

Shelter6 Vodka stands out for its focus on precision. Crafted by Cartel Bros in collaboration with Badshah, the vodka is refined six times to achieve exceptional clarity and smoothness. Clean on the palate and silky on the finish, it works equally well in cocktails and when sipped neat. It fits right into intimate house parties and well-set bars.

The Glenjourney Single Malt Whisky is designed for slow, thoughtful pours. A combination of sherry, bourbon, and rum casks brings warmth, depth, and balance to the whisky. Co-crafted by Ajay Devgn, this no-age-statement single malt feels layered and confident without being overpowering. It is best enjoyed unhurried, making it ideal for relaxed long weekend evenings. 

The Glenwalk Blended Scotch Whisky offers a dependable and refined choice for hosting. This three-year-old blend carries malty richness with gentle spice, making it easy to serve and even easier to enjoy. Co-founded by Sanjay Dutt and trusted by over a million drinkers, it suits gatherings where consistency matters.

EL Goonda, backed by Karan Tacker, brings a bold energy to the mix. Made using 100% Indian agave beasts, the range offers distinct personalities across variants. Silver delivers raw lightning shots, Reposado offers smooth character, Picante adds spicy flair, and Café introduces coffee-driven intensity. Ideal for margaritas or straight pours, EL Goonda makes a statement for those looking to turn things up before January 26. The brand is available in Mumbai.

With dry days approaching, stocking these bottles ahead of time ensures the long weekend stays seamless. Cartel Bros brings polish, EL Goonda delivers punch, and together they help set the mood. Republic Day deserves a bar that is ready to pour and ready to celebrate.


Sandwizzaa Strengthens Mumbai Presence with New Outlet in Malad

Sandwizzaa Strengthens Mumbai Presence with New Outlet in Malad

By Hariharan U

Published on January 23, 2026

Mumbai-based QSR brand Sandwizzaa has strengthened its presence in the city with the launch of a new outlet in Malad, continuing its steady expansion across the market it calls home. Known for its indulgent sandwiches and comfort-focused offerings, the brand remains closely tied to the everyday food habits of Mumbai’s neighbourhoods.

Since its early days, Sandwizzaa has built loyalty by becoming part of customers’ daily routines, offering quick meals, familiar flavours, and consistent quality. The Malad outlet follows the same philosophy, opening in a suburb known for its mix of residential communities, offices, colleges, and high daily footfall, making it a natural fit for the brand’s walk-in, repeat-visit model.

Commenting on the expansion, Pankaj Sharma, Director, Sandwizzaa, said, “Mumbai has always been central to Sandwizzaa’s story. Every outlet we open here feels personal because it comes from listening to our customers and understanding how they eat every day. Malad stood out as a neighbourhood that values convenience, familiarity, and value, which aligns perfectly with what Sandwizzaa represents.”

The Malad outlet offers Sandwizzaa’s full range of vegetarian sandwiches, fries, beverages, and comfort favourites, staying true to the brand’s core promise of affordability and consistency. In addition to its signature sandwiches, the outlet serves thick milkshakes, frappes, and classic tea and coffee options, catering to both quick bites and relaxed pauses through the day.

Designed as an easy walk-in space, the outlet is positioned to serve students, office-goers, and residents alike, encouraging frequent visits rather than occasion-led dining. With this addition, Sandwizzaa continues to grow across Mumbai through a measured, sustainable expansion strategy that prioritises neighbourhood relevance over scale alone.

The brand has also recently been recognised with Zomato’s Best Fast Food Award, reinforcing its standing within Mumbai’s competitive QSR landscape.

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