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.


Celebrate Tamil New Year with a Traditional Feast at The Filter Coffee

Celebrate Tamil New Year with a Traditional Feast at The Filter Coffee

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 9, 2026

Marking Tamil New Year, The Filter Coffee is bringing a festive dining experience that feels close to home. The restaurant has curated a traditional Tamil-style feast, inspired by the rich culinary heritage of Tamil Nadu and the spirit of shared celebrations.

The meal reflects the essence of festive rituals, with a comforting spread that brings together familiar flavours and time-honoured recipes. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes including Murunga Elai Soup Rasam, Vellai Appam, Chettinad Kurma, Potato Ghee Roast, Drumstick & Onion Sambar, Vathal Kuzhambu, Aviyal and more, all prepared in an authentic style.

To complete the experience, the feast also includes classic festive desserts like Channa Dal Pradhaman and Boondi Laddoo, adding a sweet touch to the celebration. The offering is designed to capture the warmth and joy of Tamil New Year through food that feels both traditional and comforting.

The special meal will be available on April 14, 2025, with time slots at 1 PM, 2 PM, and 3 PM. Guests can choose to dine in, opt for takeaway, or place orders online through Swiggy and Zomato. The experience will be available across The Filter Coffee outlets in Kalyan Nagar, Indiranagar, Brookfield, and Koramangala.

With this festive spread, The Filter Coffee brings together tradition, flavour, and the joy of celebrating new beginnings in a simple and heartfelt way.


Heritage Spirits Redefine Luxury with Culture and Craft

Heritage Spirits Redefine Luxury with Culture and Craft

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 9, 2026

The idea of luxury in the world of spirits is slowly changing. It is no longer just about how old a drink is or the legacy behind it. Today, it is more about where it comes from and the story it carries. Across the globe, many indigenous spirits that were once limited to local communities are now making their way into premium bars and collector shelves.

What makes this trend stand out is its focus on authenticity. These are not newly created products but drinks deeply rooted in culture and tradition. They are now being reintroduced in a way that connects with a global audience while still holding on to their origins.

One such example from India is Six Brothers Mahura, launched by South Seas Distilleries. Mahua has a long history in the country and was once widely consumed. Made from the flower of the Madhuca longifolia tree, it slowly lost its place over time due to colonial restrictions and changing perceptions. With this new launch, the spirit is being presented in a premium format. Crafted using a copper pot still technique, it offers floral aromas, earthy notes, and a hint of spice. With a starting price of ₹1,02,000, the brand clearly aims to position Mahua as a luxury offering alongside global favourites.

From Mexico, mezcal has also seen a similar journey. Once made in small villages using traditional methods, it is now gaining global recognition. Brands like Del Maguey Mezcal have helped bring it to a wider audience while keeping its original process intact, including agave roasting in underground ovens and natural fermentation.

In the world of cognac, Hennessy Paradis continues to show how heritage can stay relevant. Made using carefully selected eaux de vie aged over decades, it offers a smooth and rich profile with notes of honey, dried flowers, and candied fruit. It reflects a balance between tradition and modern appeal.

Japan’s contribution comes through Nikka Taketsuru Whisky, a blend that highlights precision and craftsmanship. Named after Masataka Taketsuru, known as the father of Japanese whisky, it brings together multiple malt whiskies to create a refined and balanced drink.

From South America, Pisco Portón is helping bring attention to pisco, a spirit that has long been part of Peruvian culture. Produced in limited quantities, it focuses on quality and presentation while staying true to its roots. Its aromatic and fruit-forward profile offers something fresh for global consumers.

Together, these spirits highlight a shift in how luxury is being defined. It is no longer limited to established categories but is expanding to include cultural depth and regional identity. Whether it is Mahura in India, mezcal in Mexico, or pisco in Peru, these drinks are shaping a new narrative in the global spirits space, one that values heritage as much as craftsmanship.


CRC Group Brings Olive Café & Bar to The Flagship Beyond in Noida

CRC Group Brings Olive Café & Bar to The Flagship Beyond in Noida

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on April 9, 2026

CRC Group has announced a key collaboration with AD Singh to bring Olive Café & Bar to The Flagship Beyond in Noida. This marks the brand’s first-ever collaboration in the city, adding a well-known dining experience to the project and strengthening its position as a lifestyle destination.

The restaurant will span around 12,000 sq ft and will reflect Olive’s signature Mediterranean style. Known for its romantic and rustic-chic setting, the space often features white-pebbled courtyards and rooftop views, creating a relaxed yet elegant atmosphere. Founded by A.D. Singh, Olive Café & Bar is already a popular name in Delhi and Mumbai, offering Italian-Mediterranean cuisine, well-loved Sunday brunches, and handcrafted cocktails.

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Sharing his thoughts on the collaboration, AD Singh, Founder & MD, Olive Group of Restaurants, said, “For us at Olive, every new space is an opportunity to create something that feels both personal and contextual. Our collaboration with CRC Group for The Flagship Beyond felt instinctive, given their clear vision of building a destination that values experience as much as design. Noida has been on our radar for some time, but it was important to find the right setting, and CRC’s The Flagship Beyond felt like the right fit. We look forward to bringing Olive’s signature warmth, food, and easy elegance to a new audience, and becoming a part of the city’s evolving dining and social narrative.”

Satish Garg, Chairman and Founder, CRC Group, said, “At CRC, we have always focused on curating environments that feel elevated yet intuitive. We are delighted to welcome Olive Café & Bar to one of our prestigious projects, and see this association as the beginning of a long-term collaboration that will add enduring value to the destination.”

This development reflects CRC Group’s continued focus on building spaces that go beyond regular retail. With Olive Café & Bar joining The Flagship Beyond, the destination is shaping up as a hub where dining, retail, and culture come together in a seamless way.

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