Latest dispatches

Paul John Whisky Tops ADI International Spirits Competition 2026

Paul John Indian Single Malt Whisky recently won the Best of Class – International Whisky award at the American Distilling Institute (ADI) International Spirits Competition 2026. This year’s competition brought together whiskies from leading whisky-producing nations including Scotland, the United States, Japan, Taiwan, Canada, and Australia. Paul John Classic Select Cask secured the Best of Class – International Whisky and Best of Category – Indian Single Malt Whisky titles , along with a Double Gold Medal . Paul John Brilliance followed with a Double Gold Medal, while the Peated Select Cask, Bold, and Nirvana Unpeated expressions received Gold Medals. Paul John PX rounded off the haul with a Silver Medal. Paul John Whisky’s performance at ADI arrives at a moment when the global whisky conversation is genuinely shifting. Consumers and industry experts are increasingly looking beyond traditional producing regions, drawn by the unique character that India's

Emberstone Irish Whiskey Enters India’s Premium Spirits Market

Emberstone Irish Whiskey has entered the Indian market, positioning itself as a premium offering within the country’s fast-growing Irish whiskey segment. The brand is being rolled out across key markets including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan and Goa, targeting regions with strong premium spirits consumption and evolving consumer preferences. The launch is centred on craftsmanship, refinement and a distinctive maturation process designed to differentiate the expression in an increasingly competitive category. Emberstone said the whiskey is triple-distilled and non-chill filtered to preserve its natural character and texture. The spirit is matured in ex-bourbon casks before undergoing finishing in Oloroso sherry and Banyuls wine barrels, a combination intended to deliver additional complexity and depth. According to the brand, the whiskey offers notes of honeyed malt, baked orchard fruits, gentle nuttiness and soft tannins, complemented by aromas of dried fruits, vanill

ABD Rangapur Plant Wins Best Factory Award

Allied Blenders and Distillers Limited (ABD) has been awarded the Best Factory/Management Award for its integrated manufacturing facility at Rangapur, Wanaparthy district, Telangana. The recognition was conferred by the Labour, Employment, Training & Factories Department (LET&F), Government of Telangana, during the Labour Day celebrations held on 1st May. ABD’s Integrated Manufacturing Facility at Rangapur is one of the company’s key production hubs, comprising an ENA distillery, an IMFL bottling unit, and a PET bottle manufacturing plant which was recently commissioned in September 2025. This integrated infrastructure grants the organisation enhanced oversight of production cycles, cost structures, and supply chain logistics. The facility’s capabilities are set to expand with an upcoming malt distillery, a strategic addition designed to bolster ABD’s premium portfolio and establish robust single malt production capabilities. The facility has a total workforce o

Allied Blenders and Distillers reports record FY26 revenue and profit growth

Allied Blenders and Distillers delivered its strongest financial performance yet in FY26, reporting record revenue, EBITDA, and profit after tax, driven by continued premiumisation and strong consumer demand across its Prestige & Above portfolio. The company posted revenue from operations of ₹3,490 crore for FY26, marking an 11.5% growth over ₹3,141 crore reported in FY25. EBITDA for the year grew by 25.8% to ₹68 crore, while profit after tax stood at ₹42 crore, reversing the losses recorded in the previous fiscal year. The company’s premiumisation strategy continued to play a major role in its growth trajectory, with higher contributions coming from premium and prestige brands. Allied Blenders and Distillers has been focusing on strengthening its portfolio across whisky and other premium spirits categories while expanding distribution and consumer reach across markets. The fourth quarter of FY26 also reflected strong momentum for the company. Revenue from operations during Q4FY2

Indian Products Take Centre Stage at TFWA Singapore

•⁠  ⁠From Rampur and Amrut to Indri, Seven Islands and Mahua-finished malts, Indian companies showcase premium ambitions at the world’s leading duty-free exhibition India’s alcoholic beverage industry made a powerful statement at the TFWA Exhibition and Conference in Singapore this year, underlining how Indian spirits are rapidly moving from a domestic-volume business to a globally recognised premium category. From award-winning single malts and luxury brandies to innovative Mahua-finished whiskies and travel retail exclusives, Indian companies used the global duty-free platform to showcase their growing confidence, expanding international footprints and premium aspirations. What stood out most at TFWA Singapore was the increasing presence of Indian companies across categories. A decade ago, Indian participation at global travel retail exhibitions was limited. Today, Indian brands are competing alongside established global names in whisky, rum, vodka and brandy, w

May 2026

Amrut Pravas Single Malt Whisky Review

*]:pointer-events-auto R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" data-turn-id="request-WEB:68f8d1b7-40df-4029-abb7-5d09c3d0ae10-0" data-turn-id-container="request-WEB:68f8d1b7-40df-4029-abb7-5d09c3d0ae10-0" data-testid="conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="false" data-turn="assistant"> Amrut recently launched its latest single malt — the Amrut Pravas — exclusively for the global travel retail market and in a First Exclusive we got our hands on the Indian Single Malt (more like they sent it to us). That means you’re not going to casually spot this on retail shelves anytime soon, at least in the first phase of the launch. The whisky comes in a 1-litre format at 46% ABV at a approx price point of Rs. 15,000. Now that's not your average price point, but with only 3,000 bottles released globally in the first run, maki

Amrut Launches Pravas Single Malt Whisky at TFWA Singapore 2026 Exclusive to Duty Free

Amrut Distilleries has launched Pravas Single Malt Whisky exclusively for global travel retail, at TFWA Singapore 2026. We speak with Master Distiller & COO Ashok Chokkalingam at the show about this new expression & Amrut's overseas performance & expansion.

South Seas Distillery on Reviving Mahua & Indian Spirits for GTR at TFWA Singapore 2026

At TFWA Singapore 2026, we spoke with Bhanu Kaila, Commercial Director at Seven Seas Distillery, about the company’s presence at the show - showcasing Six Brothers Mahura as well as Crazy Cock Whiskies - the growing visibility of Indian spirits in global travel retail, and what lies ahead for the brand internationally.

Radico Khaitan on Indian Spirits, Global Travel Retail & TFWA Singapore 2026

At TFWA Singapore 2026, we spoke with Sanjeev Banga of Radico Khaitan about their presence at the show, the evolving Indian spirits category, and opportunities in the global travel retail market.

LARK Bringing Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky to the Mainstream | TFWA Singapore 2026

At TFWA Singapore 2026, we spoke with Stuart Gregor from Lark Distilling Co. about the brand’s presence at the show showcasing LARK Tasmanian Single Malt Whisky, developments in the whisky category in Tasmania, and the evolving global travel retail landscape.

Tilaknagar Industries Showcases Mansion House, Seven Islands & Samsara at TFWA Singapore 2026

At TFWA Singapore 2026, we speak with Soumyajit Das, Assistant General Manager – International Business at Tilaknagar Industries Ltd about the company’s showcase at the event, featuring Mansion House Brandy, Seven Islands Whisky, and Samsara Gin as part of its global travel retail portfolio.

Picadilly Debuts Indri Ilika at TFWA Singapore 2026 Exclusive to Duty Free

At TFWA Singapore 2026, we speak with Madhu Khanna, International Business Head, and Manmeet Kaur, General Manager – Global Travel Retail, at Piccadily Agro Industries Ltd about the company’s showcase at the event, including the new Indri Ilika expression created exclusively for airport duty-free retail, alongside other offerings such as Indri Single Malt Whisky and Camikara Rum.

Sarah Branquinho Talks Growth, Change & the Future of Travel Retail at TFWA Singapore 2026

Alcobrew Refreshes White & Blue Whisky with New Packaging and Refined Blend

According to the company, this marks the whisky’s most elevated packaging expression since its launch in 2012. New Packaging Design features for White & Blue Whisky: Embossed branding on the bottle's sides and front Refined bottle silhouette Cleaner label design featuring new logo and velvet-touch finish Straight-sided profile with minimal curvature, replacing the previous tapered bottom Uttar Pradesh will be the first market to receive the whisky in its new packaging, with other regions set to follow in a phased rollout. White & Blue Whisky, the company’s flagship offering in the semi-premium segment, went on to become one of the fastest-growing millionaire brands within a short span of time. Ashutosh Rajput, COO, Alcobrew Distilleries, said the brand has always reflected the bold vision and innovative approach of founder Romesh Pandita. Refined Blend Alongside the packaging revamp, Alcobrew has also refined the whisky blend itself. The updated expression is said to delive

Amrut Pravas: A Spirit of Journey

      Amrut Distilleries Unveils Amrut Pravas at TFWA Singapore           A Landmark Global Travel Retail Launch Celebrating India’s Spirit in Motion Amrut Distilleries recently launched internationally, Amrut Pravas at TFWA Singapore underway from May 10 to 14. Crafted exclusively for global travel retail, Amrut Pravas is a whisky born for the modern traveller, discovered in transit, experienced across borders, and remembered long after the journey ends. The unveiling at TFWA Singapore marks a defining moment in Amrut’s expanding global travel retail journey, reinforcing the brand’s commitment to bringing authentic Indian luxury and craftsmanship to discerning whisky enthusiasts worldwide. Amrut has transformed perceptions of Indian single malt whisky across the world since its international debut in 2004. What began as a bold ambition from Bangalore evolved into a globally celebrated single malt movement, earning admirati

Glenmorangie introduces Signature Serve Ritual for Original 12 Years Old

The ritual accompanies the recent transition of the expression from 10 to 12 years of ageing. According to the company, the extended maturation is aimed at delivering greater depth, creaminess and balance to the whisky’s profile. The Signature Serve Ritual includes a Glenmorangie-inscribed ice cube designed for slow dilution, along with a dehydrated orange slice clipped to the rim of the glass to accentuate the whisky’s citrus-forward notes. The Glenmorangie Original 12 Years Old features notes of orange, peach, apricot, vanilla, honey and almond, with a smooth finish.  Smriti Sekhsaria, Marketing Director at Moët Hennessy India, said evolving consumer preferences are increasingly focused on premium and experience-led consumption. Signature Serve Ritual Steps Step 1 - Pour Glenmorangie Original 12 Years Old into a whisky glass Step 2 - Add the Glenmorangie-inscribed ice cube (Regular ice will also do) Step 3 - Clip a dehydrated orange slice to the rim of the glass

CCI Orders Investigation into Alleged Anti-Competitive Conduct of Pernod Ricard and others

The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has ordered an investigation into alleged anti-competitive conduct involving Pernod Ricard and several associated distributors and retailers in Delhi’s liquor market, after finding prima facie evidence that exclusive dealing arrangements may have distorted competition during the implementation of the now-scrapped Delhi Excise Policy 2021-22. The Commission clarified that it was not delivering any final finding on guilt or violation at this stage, but had formed a preliminary view that the allegations warranted a formal probe by the Director General (DG), the investigative arm of the CCI. Pernod Ricard Denies Any Wrongdoing Pernod Ricard had filed an application seeking an opportunity to present its case before any investigation was ordered. The Commission, however, rejected the request, stating that the material on record was sufficient to form a prima facie opinion warranting investigation and that a preliminary hearing was not necessary

Akram Fahmi, first Chairman of Seagram India, Passes Away

Akram Fahmi, the first Chairman of Seagram India and one of the key architects of India’s modern premium spirits industry, has passed away in the United States following a prolonged battle with cancer. He is survived by his wife, Jessie Fahmi, who stood by him throughout his life and professional journey. Fahmi belonged to a generation of business leaders who helped shape India’s alcobev sector at a time when the industry was still in its infancy. Born in India, he completed his graduation here before pursuing higher studies in the United States. He spent his entire professional career with Seagram, remaining closely associated with the company through some of its most consequential years of international expansion. SAP Media Worldwide expresses heartfelt condolences to the family. It may be mentioned here that Ambrosia had bestowed upon Fahmi the ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for the services he had rendered to the sector. He worked alongside Seagram’s lea

UB clarifies on financial leak

United Breweries Limited on May 7 reported an inadvertent disclosure of unpublished price-sensitive information (UPSI) linked to its annual financial results dated May 5, 2026. The company said that the prompt release of the results ensured there was no material impact warranting additional action under SEBI regulations or its Code of Fair Disclosure. In a regulatory filing, the company said an employee had unintentionally shared draft financial figures with an external party for legitimate purposes, but without adhering to prescribed safeguards under insider trading regulations. UB said its Board-approved annual financial results were officially disclosed to stock exchanges within hours of the incident on the same day. The company added that the prompt release of the results ensured there was no material impact warranting additional action under SEBI regulations. Describing the disclosure as part of good corporate governance practices, the company said it would take necessary measures

Tamil Nadu CM Vijay’s First Order: Closure of 717 TASMAC Liquor Shops Near Temples, Schools & Bus Stands

Newly appointed Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay Chandrashekar first administrative action has been the immediate closure of 717 TASMAC (Tamilnadu State Marketing Corporation Limited) liquor outlets near temples, mosques, churches, schools, colleges and bus stands. The TVK-led government enforces a stricter 500-meter buffer zone in many cases. The move has generated massive attention on social media and among the public. Social media platforms are buzzing with support for this decision. Many users have said the move is a "welcome first step" towards addressing Tamil Nadu's long-standing alcohol problem. According to reports, a comprehensive survey of Tamil Nadu's 4,765+ TASMAC shops revealed that 276 shops were within prohibited distance from temples, mosques, and churches; 186 shops near schools and colleges; and 255 shops close to bus stands. The government has directed officials to complete the closures within the next 14 days. This directive enforces

Supreme Court Rejects PIL Against Wine Tetra Packs in UP

A Bench led by Chief Justice of India Surya Kant recently dismissed a PIL challenging the availability of wine in tetra packs in Uttar Pradesh, while allowing the petitioner to submit a representation before state authorities. The Bench, also comprising Justices Joymalya Bagchi and N. Kotiswar Singh Pancholi, was hearing a plea filed by Meenakshi Tiwari, who argued that the easy availability of liquor in tetra packs could adversely impact school students. The petitioner told the Court that her daughter lives in Ahmedabad where such packaging was not prevalent. “There is no problem there, but in UP children will carry these tetra packs to classes,” the Bench was told. The Court noted that the Uttar Pradesh excise policy did not expressly permit the sale of liquor in tetra packs. However, it observed that an administrative decision taken by the state government in February 2025 had allowed the sale of liquor in such small packages. “The said policy decision is on record

Yello Whisky Review: Is Ranveer Singh's ₹2,700 Whisky Worth It?

Priced at ₹2,700 for a 750 ml bottle in Maharashtra, the whisky is also available across Goa, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Kolkata and Bengaluru. At this price point, consumers are already looking at established Scotch labels such as  Ballantine's , VAT 69 and Black & White . That naturally raises the question — what makes Yello worth considering? A Cross-Continental Blend The makers position Yello as a 'cross-continental blend' designed for today’s younger whisky drinker — consumers who are more experimental and open to contemporary flavour profiles. Produced at Allied Blenders & Distillers ’s Aurangabad facility, the whisky combines Scotch malts from the Highlands and Speyside with Indian malt whisky. While the concept of blending Scotch with Indian malts is hardly new in the Indian whisky industry, the execution is what matters. The blend leans heavily into a sweeter, softer flavour profile rather than spice-forward aggression. The Scotch malts, mature

Godawan at Monde Selection 2026

      Godawan 173, Godawan 01 Rich & Rounded, and Godawan 02 Fruit & Spice awarded Gold Quality Awards in the Spirits category Godawan Artisanal Indian Single Malt Whisky has secured three Gold Quality Awards at the Monde Selection Quality Awards 2026, with its expressions Godawan 173, Godawan 01 Rich & Rounded, and Godawan 02 Fruit and Spice each receiving top honours. This recognition from one of the world’s most respected quality institutes reinforces Godawan’s commitment to delivering consistent excellence and premium craftsmanship on a global stage. Crafted in Rajasthan, Godawan 01 Rich & Rounded and Godawan 02 Fruit & Spice form the foundation of the brand, each offering distinct flavour profiles that have shaped its growing reputation in Indian single malts. Godawan 173, the world’s first liqueur-inspired whisky, marks the rise in the population of the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard an