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.


When Chocolate Becomes a Love Letter: BELAGIO Unveils Its Valentine’s

When Chocolate Becomes a Love Letter: BELAGIO Unveils Its Valentine’s

By Hariharan U

Published on February 1, 2026

This Valentine’s Day, BELAGIO is redefining romance with chocolate that speaks straight to the heart. Introducing the Hearts & Roses Collection, a limited-edition Valentine’s special where love is baked, sculpted and savoured, transforming classic symbols of romance into elegant dessert creations.

Known for its emotion-driven craftsmanship and refined aesthetic, BELAGIO brings together flavour, form and feeling in a collection designed to delight not just the palate, but the senses. Each dessert is crafted as a love letter in chocolate, turning familiar Valentine motifs into luxurious, share-worthy indulgences.

At the heart of the collection is the Choco Berry Heart, a striking heart-shaped creation layered with dark chocolate mousse, tangy berry compote and almond chocolate sponge. Finished with a radiant red glaze and delicate gold accents, the dessert balances richness with brightness, offering a bold yet romantic expression of flavour.

Equally aptivating is the Chocolate Truffle Rose, a chocolate truffle cake crowned with a meticulously hand-crafted chocolate rose. Designed as a modern tribute to Valentine’s flowers, the edible rose adds both visual drama and sentimental charm, making it as memorable to gift as it is to savour.

Every dessert in the Hearts & Roses Collection is created as a thoughtful conversation between texture, taste and emotion. Whether shared between couples, friends, or enjoyed as a personal indulgence, the collection celebrates love in all its forms.

Available in limited quantities, BELAGIO’s Valentine’s special transforms everyday moments into romantic celebrations, offering chocolate that doesn’t just taste indulgent, but feels meaningful.


Cristal Azul Tequila Launches in Goa, Expands Premium Footprint Across India

Cristal Azul Tequila Launches in Goa, Expands Premium Footprint Across India

By Author

Published on January 31, 2026

Globally recognised premium tequila brand Cristal Azul has officially launched in Goa, marking the next phase of its India journey after a successful debut in Mumbai. The expansion signals the brand’s growing focus on India’s evolving premium spirits landscape, with plans already underway to enter key markets such as Delhi and Bengaluru.

Produced in Mexico and refined in New York, Cristal Azul follows traditional tequila-making methods while embracing contemporary craftsmanship. Made exclusively from 100% Blue Weber Agave sourced from the agave-rich soils of Jalisco, the tequila is known for its smoothness, balance, and consistency. Each bottle reflects a blend of heritage and modern sensibility, catering to today’s discerning consumers seeking refined sipping experiences.

Cristal Azul’s portfolio includes a range of internationally recognised expressions, including Añejo and Reposado, along with Extra Añejo, Blanco, Gold, and Silver. Designed for both neat sipping and modern cocktail culture, the range offers versatility across elevated social occasions and premium hospitality settings.

The brand’s arrival in Goa aligns naturally with the state’s vibrant hospitality ecosystem and premium lifestyle culture. As tequila continues to gain popularity among affluent Gen Z and Gen X consumers, alongside seasoned whisky drinkers exploring new categories, Cristal Azul positions itself as a natural choice for those seeking depth, elegance, and contemporary appeal.

Now available across select premium retail outlets, upscale bars, and leading hospitality destinations in Goa, Cristal Azul aims to elevate beachside gatherings, sunset rituals, and sophisticated nightlife experiences. Each expression is crafted to be enjoyed neat, over ice, or paired with curated culinary offerings.

With launches underway in Mumbai and Goa and further expansion planned across major Indian cities, Cristal Azul continues to strengthen its pan-India footprint. Blending global pedigree with meticulous craftsmanship, the brand invites Indian consumers to discover a new chapter in premium tequila culture, where every sip becomes an occasion.


Spice Traders at W Goa Reimagines Chinese Cuisine with a Modern, Intuitive Lens

Spice Traders at W Goa Reimagines Chinese Cuisine with a Modern, Intuitive Lens

By Hariharan U

Published on January 31, 2026

Spice Traders at W Goa is charting a new course for Chinese cuisine, offering a refined, contemporary interpretation rooted in philosophy rather than replication. Moving away from overt nostalgia or trend-driven reinvention, the restaurant’s refreshed culinary direction focuses on restraint, balance and instinctive flavour-building, quietly bridging the gap between tradition and modernity.

Inspired by the philosophies of China’s Eight Great Cuisines, the approach at Spice Traders does not attempt to recreate regional dishes in their original form. Instead, the kitchen, led by Chef Avinash, studies the thinking behind them. The emphasis lies on understanding how heat is layered rather than imposed, how fermentation creates depth without heaviness, and how contrast, rather than excess, brings harmony to a dish.

These principles form the foundation of a menu that feels contemporary and relevant while staying deeply connected to the soul of Chinese cooking. Techniques and ingredients are used with intent, allowing flavours to unfold naturally and with clarity, rather than overwhelming the palate. The result is food that feels confident, edited and quietly expressive.

Central to this evolution is Spice Traders’ BA philosophy, which celebrates the space between opposites. Tradition meets modernity, fire balances freshness, and comfort coexists with curiosity. Each dish is designed to live in this in-between space, reflecting a thoughtful equilibrium that defines the restaurant’s culinary identity.

With this renewed direction, Spice Traders at W Goa continues to honour one of the world’s most storied culinary traditions, while presenting it through a lens that resonates with today’s diners. The experience is less about spectacle and more about intuition, offering a modern Chinese dining journey that feels both familiar and forward-looking.

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