Rémy Cointreau Unveils “METAXA” The Original Greek Spirit in India

The one-of-a-kind Amber Spirit- METAXA 12 Stars offers an

The unexpected journey of discovery

Mumbai, September 2022:- The Rémy Cointreau Group (headquartered in Paris, France), has a portfolio of exceptional spirits which draw their strength from authenticity and originality. Each of these brands embodies unique expertise and heritage while sharing the same culture of excellence.

Like all Rémy Cointreau Group brands, METAXA is rooted in the depths of terroir, in this case, that of Samos, a Greek island which lies in the Aegean Sea. At the very heart of METAXA’s exceptional smoothness is the prized Muscat wine of Samos. The Muscat wines and wine distillates are aged separately in oak casks until they are ready to be married. A bouquet of Mediterranean botanicals brings the final touch to the smoothness to METAXA.

“We are confident of the evolving taste for spirits in India, as the journey around discovery of flavours and tastes is more appreciated than ever before. As we bring METAXA from Greece to India, we are sure this spirit embodying the flavours of the Mediterranean will offer a cherished experience for connoisseurs and even those with a taste for botanicals”, says Mr. Abhishek Parameswaran, Country Manager India, Rémy Cointreau

Tasting Notes

 METAXA 12 Stars, the first from the METAXA collection to be launched in India, has a unique taste. The authentic character of this spirit is irresistibly associated with the idea of a journey. METAXA 12 Stars’ mature and distinctive character is best explored neat or on a single rock. Bartenders and mixologists enjoy offering it in signature cocktails where it lends a curious sensorial experience!

 The fruit of nature and the work of time, enhanced by the devotion and talent of people – that is the philosophy of the House of METAXA:  Taste The Unexpected.

In the words of METAXA Master Constantinos Raptis “Those who would like to discover METAXA, have to think of making a unique, unexpected discovery. They embark on a journey of pleasure through all their senses, a journey they will take from time to time in their life.”  

Craftsmanship

The House of METAXA does not have a Master Distiller, nor a Master Blender. It has a METAXA Master, Constantinos Raptis, who embodies the unique savoir-faire of the House. He is only the fifth METAXA Master since 1888. The wine distillates and Muscat wines are aged separately until Constantinos Raptis decides they are ready to be emulsified in Limousin oak casks. A multitude of Mediterranean botanicals adds the finishing floral touch and freshness. The METAXA Master needs both inspiration and passion. Just as he needs to blend the ingredients that make METAXA, Constantinos Raptis needs to blend the old with the new. He must retain the tradition and the style of METAXA while being inspired to create new expressions, like METAXA 12 Stars.

History

Since 1888, the House of METAXA is on a journey to offer a one-of-a-kind amber spirit. Experience the unique taste of Samos Muscat wines, aged wine distillates and Mediterranean botanicals for an intense smoothness. Constantinos Raptis, the METAXA Master, first makes his selection of the Muscat wines from Samos, chosen for their aromatic concentration and intensity. He then chooses the fine wine distillates for their character and elegance. Spyros METAXA built his first distillery in 1888 in Piraeus, the port of Athens. His unique one-of-a-kind amber spirit was soon being exported around the Mediterranean. The House of METAXA is today in the north of Athens. It is here, in the dark of the cellars, that the METAXA Master reveals his unique savoir-faire to honour Spyros METAXA’s legacy.

Today, it is recognized for what it is, a unique amber spirit.

For more information visit https://www.metaxa.com/

Instagram Handle https://www.instagram.com/metaxa.official/?hl=en

METAXA 12 Stars will be available in Maharashtra across all leading liquor retail stores, it is priced at INR ₹6,900.

Oktoberfest special Brews : Dabble Dubble and the Ludwing's Party Festbier by Igloo Craft Beers

~ Crisp. Refreshing. Thirst-quenching ~

Oktoberfest after years started as a horse race to celebrate Bavarian Crown Prince Ludwig’s wedding in 1810 is today, one of the world’s largest annual festivals where millions of people congregate to drink beer. We at Igloo Craft Beers are super excited! launched in 2019, for the love and appreciation of beers with the world, the team at Igloo Craft beers was formed using high-quality fresh ingredients to brew a well-curated range of beers. Igloo Beers offering widely available brews within diverse styles that suit all tastes launched the two special craft beer brews this Oktoberfest.

The folks at Igloo Craft Beers are brewing some special craft beers this Oktoberfest, that you surely need to try keeping in mind the flavors and ingredients of the season. The first one to be Dabble Dubble which comes in from the land of devout monks, a complex Belgian style with deep aromas of spices and dark fruits like plum and raisins, and the second special craft brew from Igloo to be Ludwing’s Party Fesbier - One of the 2 styles served at Oktoberfest that started as a wedding party crown, Price Ludwing. Light malty toffee is characterized to keep you drinking by the liter.

Both the Beer at Igloo Craft Beers are available in 1Litr bottles and growlers at their Growler Station in Chembur, Mumbai. These special brews are in different combos and offers. Be it a house party or an office celebration, one can surely enjoy their range of delectable beers from Igloo Craft beers this Oktoberfest by clicking to order from their website. 

For More Information:

Website: igloocraftbeers.com

Address: Shop No 3, Cubic Mall, CG Rd, Chembur, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400074

Contact: 85914 65592

Time: 11am to 10pm

Date: 22nd Sept to 15th October 2022

YOUnion Season 2 Launches a Carnival Sunday Brunch

YOUnion, the all-day gastrobar, which is Zorawar Kalra’s homage to the millennials, recently launched with ‘Season 2’ of the space, featuring an entire refurbishment of the interiors, and all-new F&B offerings. Now, the fun and trendy venue has just launched a Carnival Sunday Brunch. 

Ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends, the Carnival Sunday Brunch offers something for everyone. Guests will enjoy an abundance of food options via live counters. Diners can enjoy an egg station serving Magic Masala Scrambled Eggs; and Sunny Side Up on Toast; a live pasta and risotto station where one can choose one’s own pasta type and sauce; and a live Pancakes & Mini Waffles station. Also, available on the buffet brunch menu are a Salad bar featuring a variety of different salads and dressings; a Mezze & Tapas Bar, complete with Mediterranean dips and small plates; wood-fired oven pizzas; sandwiches; and dumplings. Those craving more can enjoy Hot Main Courses like Slow-Cooked Awadh Nihari; Truffle Mac n Cheese; and Exotic Vegetarian Thai Curry with Garlic Rice. A live Dessert counter offers options like Chocolate Éclair; Exotic Cup Cake; and Crème Brulee. 

While the food will definitely be an attraction, guests can also be entertained with a plethora of talent, such as an illusionist, a tattoo artist and a magician. For those wanting a nibble before or after their meal, a popcorn machine dispensing four different flavours of popcorn is also on offer.

Brunch pricing is based on the package guests choose and ranges between Rs. 1599-Rs. 3499 plus taxes per head. 

YOUnion Season 2

Address: D-Wing, Ground Floor, Kamala Mills, Near Radio Mirchi Office, Tulsi Pipe Rd, Lower Parel, Maharashtra 400013

Telephone Number:

+91 8433942801 | +91 8433942802

Brunch Timings: 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm, every Sunday

Social Media Handles: FB - YouniounMum  |  Instagram - YOUnion_Mumbai

This Ganesh Chaturti, Celebrate with ‘Kesari’ from Vanilla Miel

Ganpati festivities are in full swing and this means a variety of sweets and goodies at all your celebrations. This year, add Vanilla Miel’s ‘Kesari’ to the mix. The Mumbai-based patisserie & chocolaterie founded by sisters Mansi and Isha Shetty, has just introduced a new dessert tart that is ideal for festive celebrations.

A tribute to the rich history of Indian sweets, each element of this tart is inspired (and maybe stolen) from the recipe books of the founder’s different family members. It features slow-cooked gajjar ka halwa, boondi-laced rabri mousse, and a motichoor topper with crushed pistachio and saffron slivers. Encased in an almond pastry crust, this tart is created as a labour of love - a humble something from their family to yours!

The gajjar ka halwa is ‘mummy’ certified – she learnt how to make it from Mansi and Isha’s Nani and can be found in the Vanilla Miel kitchen on most days, making the dish herself.

The boondi in the tart is a tribute to the girls’ memories of celebrating Ganesh Chaturti growing up – boondi laddoos were always a favourite dessert and therefore had to be incorporated into this tart.

The rabri is a recipe from Mansi and Isha’s father, who runs a restaurant in Mumbai. Patiently cooked and caramelized using fresh milk, this rabri forms the perfect backdrop to elevate the vibrancy of the halwa and the boondi.

This Ganpati, celebrate the love of all things sweet with a fusion tart that promises a surprise with every bite!

Priced at Rs. 500 (for an individual tart), Rs. 1950 for a Petit tart, and Rs. 2450 for a Grande tart, the Kesari tart from Vanilla Miel can be ordered on their website at: https://bit.ly/3cvxC8j. The dessert can also be picked up from Vanilla Miel’s kitchen in Andheri located here: https://goo.gl/maps/FJmpVo3vTW7htUoF9.

The tart can be made egg-free, if customers prefer.

Get a taste of India's Favourite Laddu this festive season with Dadu's

Laddus are one of the most delicious sweets and is loved by everyone across generations. Each one of us has a favorite story or memory associated with Laddus from our childhood which is full of innocence and love.  Motichoor laddu finds its place in history and is originally a special recipe from Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh improvised through time. Motichoor laddu, which means crushed pearls in Hindi, is made from fine boondi balls that are small and cooked in ghee. The recipe was invented in North India but has become widely popular throughout India. Even the ancient, as well as medieval texts in the south and eastern regions, gets mention Motichoor laddu in various stories and folk tales.

Dadu's one of the pioneers in the Indian sweets industry was the first one to bring Motichoor Laddu to the people of Hyderabad. For the longest time, the orange fine Dana laddu, in any mithai store in Hyderabad is recognized as "Dadu's Laddu". Dadu's has always offered the most authentic and traditional sweet delicacies especially considering the sweet tooth of Indians. Dadu's Motichoor Laddu is unparalleled in its taste, quality, and overall sensory experience.

Motichoor Laddu is a popular dish throughout the country and is most preferred during Ganesh Chaturthi festival celebrations. Laddus became one of the most popular sweets among Indians somewhere along the way and spread happiness, positivity, and sweetness. Dadu's traditional laddu is a work of art that melts in the mouth, with the finest daana ever found, curated by expert chefs. Dadu's is known for its unique laddu which is prepared only with the best quality besan and the purest ghee from certified suppliers.   

Dadu's is also one of the most innovative sweet brands. For the upcoming Ganesh Chaturthi, they have traditional Rice Modaks, as well as many other flavourful and colorful Modaks with dry fruits, coconut, and jaggery.

According to Mr. Rajesh Dadu, Owner of Dadu's said, “In the Indian culture, motichoor laddu is an integral part of every festival. Every Ganesh Chaturthi, Dadu's sells tonnes of motichoor laddu, from the normal-sized laddus for household poojas to gigantic prasad laddus for Ganesh pandals. We strongly feel that this year, the Ganesh Chaturthi festival celebrations will surpass the pre-covid times and the god's blessings shower upon the people"

In addition, Ms. Muskaan Dadu said, "Dadu's Motichoor Laddu is made with the purest of ingredients and makes a delightful choice for any festive occasion. The festival season is right around the corner, so we are eager to indulge and spread the pearls of happiness far and wide. We endeavor to provide the best quality sweets to the people of Hyderabad and be a part of all their celebrations.”   

This Ganesh Chaturthi, Savour an Assortment of Artisanal Modaks by Patasa

Ganeshostav is around the corner and the city is all geared up to celebrate the most awaited and loved festival with fervor. The festival is incomplete without gorging on Lord Ganesha’s favourite dish - modak. Whether you want to indulge yourself with this sweet delicacy or gift it to your family and friends, Patasa has got you covered with their curation of special artisanal modaks ahead of Ganesh Chaturthi, which are a must-have this season!

Curated by founder and baker, Palak Panchal, who has maintained her expertise of experimenting with traditional mithai with a modern twist. The brand ensures that the best quality ingredients mixed with the right amount of sweetness is tastefully delivered right at your doorstep!

Their decadent box of Modak consists of Nawabi modak, sugar free dates and fig modak with roasted nuts; Choco caramel modak, chocolate peda with gooey caramel; and Citrus modak, almond modak with orange filling. The modaks not only look delightful, but also taste heavenly. The box costs INR 850/-

To place your order, visit: https://www.instagram.com/patasaofficial/

or call: 9920787789

THE OZEN COLLECTION Returns with Guy Charbaut Champagne Masterclass & Gastronomy

Xavier and Nathalie Charbaut present a sparkling soirée and an exclusive dinner showcasing Guy Charbaut House Champagnes, at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO from 24 to 30 October 2022.

Maldives: Champagne is the epitome of enchanting indulgence. Likened to a taste of stars, the sought-after beverage is much more than the toast of celebrations. The age-old culture of indulgence reflects rich wine traditions and is a way of life in itself. It is time to bask in a golden sunset, bubbly in hand, and delicious nibbles within reach while immersing in the world of champagne once again.

THE OZEN COLLECTION brings France's most elegant drink to the balmy Maldivian shores for a one-of-a-kind Champagne Masterclass. With just one sip, guests will find themselves transported to a heritage Guy Charbaut vineyard in the heart of Mareuil-sur-Ay, one of France’s finest wine-growing regions.

Rooted In Heritage, Brought Together By Passion
A penchant for crafting authentic experiences brings together the two inspiring brands. Just as THE OZEN COLLECTION tailors unique retreats with a heartfelt cultural connection, Guy Charbaut is renowned for its varietal champagne produced using traditional methods for a true expression of the environment and natural conditions of the vineyard.

Champagne Conversations with Xavier and Nathalie Charbaut
Gracing the privileged event will be Xavier and Nathalie Charbaut. The multi-generational artisanal wine growers and owners of Guy Charbaut Champagne House will be staying at the two resorts and presenting five of their finest champagnes.

With their own vineyards, consisting of Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay varieties, the Charbauts take pride in producing wine made through méthode champenoise, or the traditional method. This focus on quality results in elegant and distinctive wines – with a strong connection to the land. Guests will explore the nuances of each bottle with tasting and food pairing experiences. Wine culture will come alive through hearty conversations and fascinating insider know-how. The delightful soiree will be followed by an exclusive degustation dinner.

Masterclass at OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI and OZEN LIFE MAADHOO
The sparkling wine extravaganzas will unfold from 24th to 30th October 2022, as a part of the RESERVETM Plan at Bolifushi island and the INDULGENCETM Plan at Maadhoo island. With three champagne nights at each resort, wine lovers have a lot to get excited about.

At OZEN RESERVE BOLIFUSHI, the sophisticated masterclass will be held at Cuvée followed by a lavish dinner at the overwater speciality restaurant, ORIGINE. An exclusive menu will be designed to accompany the aromatic range of Guy Charbaut Champagnes.

The other resort within the brand, OZEN LIFE MAADHOO, will also host the masterclass at the speciality Gin Is In bar. Guests can enjoy a more lively and engaging dinner, with Mediterranean style cuisine served under the stars at the soon-to-open Joie de Vivre Beach Club.

Guy Charbaut Champagnes are also available at the resorts’ bars and restaurants to be savoured all year round

PURATOS INDIA ADDS FIVE NEW PRODUCTS TO ITS PATISSERIE RANGE

Puratos India, the subsidiary of the Puratos international group has launched five new products that would best fit in the patisserie industry. These include Tegral Prime Sponge Egg Free, Tegral Ultra Vanilla Sponge Egg Free, Tegral Prime Cocoa Sponge Egg Free, Tegral Ultra Chocolate Sponge Egg Free, and Tegral Choco Lava Mix Egg Free. These products have been developed by the Puratos Innovation team in response to increased consumer demand. In the coming days, we are also focusing on value-added products’ full product range with key differentiation which will be coming soon. 

Mr. Ashish Seth, Managing Director, Puratos Food Ingredients India Pvt. Ltd., said, “The Indian patisserie market is very dynamic and has been constantly evolving. We have been continuously analyzing the latest trends in this segment to develop products for the future. Indian artisans are looking for a new range of assortments that would encourage them to create exciting recipe concepts for their customers. Hence to proactively respond to their needs we have now launched 5 new patisserie products in 2 distinctive categories – value for money PRIME range and ULTRA, our premium range. Each of these products is tailored to match Indian preferences, value, and functionality”.  

Tegral Prime Sponge Egg Free has been designed for value-for-money customers who wish to have even crumb texture, better softness, and moistness, better strength, balanced vanilla, and flexibility for all kinds of setup.

Tegral Ultra Vanilla Sponge Egg Free is a premium sponge offering the best volume similar to egg-based sponges, mouth melting texture, even crumb texture, better softness, better strength, and moist, robust vanilla flavor, and flexibility for all kinds of setup.

Tegral Prime Cocoa Sponge Egg Free cake mix offers mouthwatering chocolate taste, moist mouth feels, even crumb texture, intense dark color, rich cocoa taste, better softness, better strength, value for money, and flexibility for all kinds of setup.

Tegral Ultra Chocolate Sponge Egg Free is rich in chocolate, contains real Belgian chocolate inside, offers a mouth-melting texture, better softness, better strength, and is moist and flexible for all kinds of setup. This range is completely NAFNAC (no added flavor, no added color).

Tegral Choco Lava Mix Egg Free is one of the most awaited products in the portfolio, widely accepted by the QSR sector, and positive feedback for the last 2 years. It is process-friendly, balanced lava-to-cake ratio, and fresh-frozen-bake.

Website: http://www.puratos.in

Marriott Bonvoy and American Express Enhance Small Business Card with Refreshed Travel, Business and Global Dining Rewards

The Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card now offers small business Card Members new benefits like a 7% room rate discount on eligible bookings at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®, with no increase to the Card’s annual fee.

Today, Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program, and American Express® (NYSE: AXP) unveiled changes to the Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card, designed to help small business owners turn their business expenses into meaningful travel rewards. Effective today, the Card now provides new and existing Card Members with a 7% Room Rate Discount on eligible bookings at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®, 4X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants, now worldwide, and complimentary Gold Elite status, in addition to all the Card’s existing benefits.

“The rich, new benefits will help Card Members owning and working for small businesses stretch their travel dollars much further and reward them for being a part of the engine that drives the U.S. economy,” said David Flueck, Senior Vice President, Global Loyalty, Marriott International. “Hard working Small Business Card Members who spend many nights traveling for business can now earn points toward vacations and getaways with family and friends even faster when staying at participating Marriott Bonvoy® hotels and using their Card for everyday expenses.”

“Small business owners have weathered many challenges over the past few years, pivoted their strategies, and are now looking to get back on track with how they run their business,” said Courtney Kelso, Executive Vice President & General Manager of Global Commercial Card, American Express. “This includes hitting the road again for client meetings, networking, new business pitches and more. Now, these Card Members can make the most of their business and leisure travel with our enhanced Marriott Bonvoy® Business Card and the ability to earn even more valuable points and rewards.”

According to new data from an American Express survey1, 82% of small business leaders surveyed say that discounted room rates are an important decision factor when booking travel, while 78% say they would extend their trip if they had a discount on rooms.

The survey also found that nearly three-fourths (73%) of respondents agree that having status with a hospitality brand impacts where they book overnight accommodations when traveling for business. In addition, a majority (67%) of small business leaders have plans to travel for work in the next one to three months, and 77% agree that they are mixing work and pleasure, wanting to extend their next business trip to also get in some personal vacation time.

New and Enhanced Benefits for Small Business Owners
The Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express® Card will maintain the same $125 annual fee2, while providing Card Members with even more value with new and enhanced benefits including:

• 7% Marriott Bonvoy® Room Rate Discount off standard rates for reservations of standard guest rooms at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy3 when booked directly. Terms apply.

• 4X Marriott Bonvoy® points at restaurants worldwide

• Complimentary Gold Elite status

Continue to Enjoy Existing Card Benefits
In addition to the new benefits, Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express Card Members can also continue to enjoy these existing benefits:

• Annual Free Night Award - Receive one Free Night Award every year after Card renewal month. Plus, earn an additional Free Night Award spending $60,000 in purchases on the Card in a calendar year. Awards can be used for one night (redemption level at or under 35,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points) at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®. Certain hotels have resort fees.

• 15 Elite Night Credits - Each calendar year Card Members can receive 15 Elite Night Credits towards the next level of Marriott Bonvoy® Elite status - Limitations apply per Marriott Bonvoy® member account. Benefit is not exclusive to Cards offered by American Express®. Terms apply.

• No foreign transaction fees2.

• Opportunity to earn:
  
  

  • 6X Marriott Bonvoy® points on each dollar of eligible purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.

  • 4X Marriott Bonvoy® points on U.S. gas station purchases, wireless telephone services purchased directly from U.S. service providers, and U.S. shipping purchases

  • 2X Marriott Bonvoy® points on all other eligible purchases

The enhanced Card benefits described above will also be enjoyed by cardmembers who have the Marriott Bonvoy® Premier Plus Business Credit Card from Chase, which is no longer available to new applicants.

New, Valuable Welcome Offer
To celebrate the refreshed Card benefits, eligible new Card Members who apply and are approved for the Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express® Card can earn 125,000 Marriott Bonvoy® points after they spend $5,000 in eligible purchases on the Card in the first three months. The offer is available through August 31, 2022. Terms and conditions apply. To learn more about the new benefits and welcome offer for new Card Members, please visit the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express® Cards .

1 Methodology: This Morning Consult poll was conducted between June 17-June 19, 2022, among a national sample of 500 small business owners and financial decision makers who plan to travel for business in the near future. Results from the full survey have a margin of error of plus or minus four percentage points.

2 For more information on rates and fees, visit the American Express® Business Cards website.

3 Exclusions include: Design HotelsTM, Marriott Executive Apartments®, Marriott Vacation Club®, Marriott Grand Residence Club®, Vistana Signature NetworkTM, Vistana Residence Network, The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club®, All-Inclusive by Marriott Bonvoy®, and Homes & Villas by Marriott International®.

About Marriott International
Marriott International, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAR) is based in Bethesda, Maryland, USA, and encompasses a portfolio of more than 8,000 properties under 30 leading brands spanning 139 countries and territories. Marriott operates and franchises hotels and licenses vacation ownership resorts all around the world. The company offers Marriott Bonvoy®, its highly awarded travel program. For more information, please visit www.marriott.com. In addition, connect with us on Facebook and @MarriottIntl on Twitter and Instagram.

About Marriott Bonvoy
Marriott Bonvoy®, Marriott International’s award-winning travel program and marketplace, gives members access to transformative, eye-opening experiences around the corner and across the globe. Marriott Bonvoy’s® portfolio of 30 extraordinary brands offers renowned hospitality in the most memorable destinations in the world. Members can earn points for stays at hotels and resorts, including all-inclusive resorts and premium home rentals, as well as through everyday purchases with co-branded credit cards. Members can redeem their points for experiences, including future stays, Marriott Bonvoy® Moments, or through partners for luxurious products from Marriott Bonvoy® Boutiques. With the Marriott Bonvoy® app, members enjoy a level of personalization and contactless experience that allows them to travel with peace of mind. To enroll for free or for more information about Marriott Bonvoy®, visit marriottbonvoy.com. To download the Marriott app, visit www.mobile-app.marriott.com. Travelers can also connect with Marriott Bonvoy® on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

About American Express
American Express is a globally integrated payments company, providing customers with access to products, insights and experiences that enrich lives and build business success. Learn more at www.americanexpress.com and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube.

THE EXTRAORDINARY SALE OF AN EXTRAORDINARY WHISKY Ardbeg enthusiast buys one-of-a-kind 1975 Islay single malt for £16million

THE EXTRAORDINARY SALE OF AN EXTRAORDINARY WHISKY

Ardbeg enthusiast buys one-of-a-kind 1975 Islay single malt for £16million

National, July 2022: A one-of-a-kind 1975 cask of Ardbeg Islay single malt Scotch whisky, which survived the Distillery’s two brushes with closure, has been sold to a private collector in Asia for £16million. The oldest ever released by Ardbeg, “Cask No. 3” is incomparably precious, since little single malt was created at the Distillery in the 1970s and it was closed through much of the 80s and 90s.  Described as a “remarkable piece of liquid history” by world-renowned whisky expert Charles MacLean, Cask No. 3 will be bottled over the course of five years for its owner, giving her an unparalleled vertical collection of aged Ardbegs, which cannot be replicated for at least a decade. To celebrate the half-century of patience and generations of Distillery workers behind this “vanishingly rare” whisky, Ardbeg will donate £1million to causes on Islay.  

Far surpassing any previous auction records for a cask of single malt, Cask No. 3’s private sale is an extraordinary milestone in Ardbeg’s 200-year history. While the Distillery is famed for creating the world’s smokiest drams – and is among the most highly awarded of the smoky malts – its journey has often been turbulent. In the 1970s, the majority of its whisky was sold for blending. And since just a few casks each year were set aside for single malt bottling, stock from that decade has always been exceptionally hard to come by. Then through most of the 1980s, the Distillery was closed as its future hung in the balance. While Ardbeg re-opened for a time, it shut again in 1996 – some thought forever. Saved from extinction the following year, the Distillery has since gone from strength to strength. Today it has a near-cult global following, has won countless awards, and is enjoyed in the world’s most prestigious bars. But Ardbeg’s darkest days remain fresh in the memories of its fans even now.

Commenting on the sale, Thomas Moradpour, CEO, of The Glenmorangie Company said, “This sale is a source of pride for everyone in the Ardbeg community who has made our journey possible. Just 25 years ago, Ardbeg was on the brink of extinction, but today it is one of the most sought-after whiskies in the world. That is a reflection of generations of hard work: from those in the stillhouse who craft our smoky spirit to the warehouse staff who care for our casks over decades, to teams around the world who build the reputation of our whiskies with fans, bartenders and collectors”.

“While such a rare whisky is out of reach for all but one of our fans, we put the same passion and care into every bottle of Ardbeg as went into this exclusive single malt in 1975 – from flagship Ardbeg Ten Years Old, to limited-edition releases. Today, our new stillhouse is working at full capacity to make more Ardbeg available than ever, and whisky creator Dr Bill Lumsden is busy imagining many more surprising smoky releases for Ardbeg fans. Because when a business like Ardbeg gets rewarded for 50 years of patience, it gives us the confidence to keep investing in the future of our distillery, and in our island community. The journey continues!”

Created in a bygone era when the Distillery still malted its barley onsite, the smoky, balanced spirit of cask No. 3 was distilled on Tuesday, 25th November 1975, and laid down to age in two separate casks – a bourbon and an Oloroso sherry. Those casks were patiently matured by generations of Ardbeg’s skilled warehouse workers over 38 years. Then Ardbeg’s acclaimed Director of Whisky Creation, Dr Bill Lumsden, decided to marry the two casks, creating an even more extraordinary single malt. On 31st March 2014, he transferred their whisky into a single refill Oloroso butt, selected to give only the subtlest of wood influence. There it has remained ever since. Today, more than 46 years after its story began, this single malt is a smorgasbord of sherried, smoky aromas and rich, elegant tastes.

Over the next five years, Ardbeg will continue to mature Cask No. 3 in a secure location on Islay for its owner. Every year, she will receive 88 bottles from the cask. By 2026, this Ardbeg enthusiast will possess a unique vertical series of rare Ardbegs from 1975, aged 46, 47, 48, 49, and 50 years old.

Director of Whisky Creation, Dr. Bill Lumsden, who will oversee the cask’s ongoing maturation, said: “Cask No. 3 is an extraordinary taste of Ardbeg’s past. Its aromas are nutty, herbal, and smoky, while its tastes of tar, espresso coffee, and spearmint have an astonishing finesse for a whisky of such age. So little stock survives from this era, that this cask really is one of a kind. And its complex flavors are a testament to the extraordinary skill of the Ardbeg team who have cared for it over the decades. I look forward to exploring how it continues to evolve over the next five years.”

Experts have hailed the sale of Cask No. 3 as an illustration of Ardbeg’s unique appeal, and the investment value of single malt Scotch. Praising its exceptional quality, author and world-renowned whisky expert Charles MacLean said: “This truly unique whisky is a remarkable piece of liquid history – an evocative taste of what Ardbeg was like when it malted its own barley. Many old whiskies can go flat with age. But Cask No. 3 is a really lovely whisky, hugely complex, still having vitality after nearly half a century.”

On Ardbeg’s appeal to collectors, he added: “The factors which make a particular whisky investable are threefold: rarity, flavor, and variety. And collectors do love Scotch, because of the provenance and history. Furthermore, there is a keen interest in smoky Islay whiskies. And Ardbeg is particularly rare – there just aren’t many bottlings of this age out there.”

Becky Paskin, whisky expert and founder of OurWhisky, explained that the strength of Ardbeg’s following and the continuing maturation of Cask No. 3, further increased its desirability. She said: “Cask No. 3 is undoubtedly alluring, and not just because of its own rarity. It hails from a Distillery that has a reputation for creating beautiful liquid, commands a cult status worldwide, and has a firm place in whisky enthusiasts’ hearts. Of the many distilleries in Scotland which have a legacy, a history and a charm about them, Ardbeg is certainly one of those which could command such a high price for a vanishingly rare cask like this. What’s most fascinating is that the owner hasn’t simply purchased an Ardbeg cask, she has invested in a vertical series of bottlings from one single cask, which will develop and mature over the next five years. This is a rare opportunity to witness a cask’s development over time.”

Rare whisky has become increasingly sought-after by investors in recent years. Andrew Shirley, editor of the renowned Knight Frank Wealth Report, said: “Over the last 10 years rare whisky has been the top-performing asset class in our Luxury Investment Index. Our index, which tracks a basket of rare bottles sold at auction, has increased in value by 428% over the last decade, and 9% in the past year. This record cask sale has set a very interesting new benchmark. Although the equivalent price for a bottle – £36,000 – is comparable to some of the rare bottles sold at auction.”

Jacob's Creek introduces UNVINED, Pernod Ricard India forays into the non-alcoholic wine category

Today, leading Australian wine brand, Jacob’s Creek announced the launch of Unvined, a non-alcoholic wine with less than 0.5% alcohol, available in two varietals - Riesling and Shiraz.  Unvined, a modern expression of winemaking, is the perfect answer to occasions when one wants to enjoy a glass of wine without the alcohol content yet retaining the true character of the original styles and flavors.  

The winemakers at Jacob’s Creek use sophisticated technology which removes alcohol whilst capturing most of the original aromas and flavours of the wine. The Unvined range has 50% less calories than regular wine of the same varietal, catering to the evolved consumer base looking for varied options to suit their preferences and mood. With the introduction of these two new varietals under non-alcoholic wine category, Jacob’s Creek truly delivers on a coveted portfolio of wines that everyone around the table will want to reach for.

Kartik Mohindra, Chief Marketing Officer, Pernod Ricard India, said: “Non-alcoholic wine may sound counterintuitive and something out of the ordinary, however sometimes it’s exactly what the evening calls for. The idea behind creation of Unvined was to ensure that everyone is able to celebrate important life moments with their friends and family in a way that fits with their lifestyle. Given Jacob’s Creek’s vast expertise in winemaking, we have created a product that has a perfect balance of taste while preserving the natural grape profile. We are proud to release Unvined in India. It is an exceptional product with less than 0.5% alcohol and a faithful expression of premium wines from Australia”.

Unvined Riesling offers attractive citrus, lime and floral notes that are typical of Australian Riesling. The light bodied palate of the non-alcoholic wine with refreshing fruit notes is balanced by a crisp acidity on the finish. While Unvined Shiraz has appealing plum, blackberry and spice notes distinctive to a South Australian Shiraz. Its medium bodied palate delivers sweet fruit and light toasty oak flavour supported by soft ripe tannins. Unvined can be readily enjoyed with a wide selection of foods.  For the Riesling white meat, seafood dishes and salads make for a perfect companion. For the Shiraz, lighter style curries go perfectly well.

Unvined Riesling and Shiraz are available in select retail outlets in Delhi and Mumbai and pan-India through Amazon India at INR 900/-.

Tata Starbucks introduces a Vegan Food Menu in India in association with Imagine Meats

Tata Starbucks introduces a Vegan Food Menu in India in association with Imagine Meats

Hyderabad: June 2022: Today, Tata Starbucks announces the introduction of an all-new vegan product lineup in India. Starting this month, Starbucks is adding three food products: Vegan Sausage Croissant Roll, Vegan Hummus Kebab Wrap, and Vegan Croissant Bun. This lineup is developed in partnership with Imagine Meats, a local plant-based food venture by Celebrity Couple & Entrepreneurs Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh.

The newly-launched vegan food menu provides more vegan options for customers, in addition to Starbucks’ existing beverage customization options with plant-based dairy alternatives such as almond, oat and soy.

As customer interest in vegan choices increase, Starbucks remains committed to introducing newer offerings in locally relevant ways. For Starbucks, expanding vegan menus globally is one of the ways the company is pursuing its goal to reduce its carbon footprint by 50%.

Speaking about the launch, Sushant Dash, CEO, Tata Starbucks Pvt Ltd said, “Customers in India are increasingly looking to explore more vegan food options. Since Starbucks arrived in the India market, we have always aimed to provide locally-relevant choices for vegetarian customers, and this new collaboration with one of India’s home-grown ventures, Imagine Meats, is yet another way to offer our customers more ways to customize their Starbucks Experience with delightful new offerings.”

Commenting on the partnership with Starbucks, Riteish and Genelia Deshmukh, Founders of Imagine Meats said, “Imagine Meats is our heartfelt endeavor towards nurturing a caring attitude regarding the planet while nurturing conscious and sustainable high protein food choices. We are thrilled to be joining hands with Starbucks who supports our vision and to introduce a new vegan food menu in India that offers consumers a simple guilt-free switch to plant-based meat. This unique partnership helps accelerate our efforts towards bridging the gap for non-vegetarians and vegetarians alike, who are actively trying to make a conscious shift towards adopting a sustainable food lifestyle.”

The new vegan product lineup is available in select stores in Hyderabad, Mumbai, Delhi NCR, Bangalore, Goa, Jaipur, Kolkata, and Pune.

As per a September 2021 study by a retail broking company in India*, the plant-based meat market in India is estimated at $30-40 million. The new menu joins a growing list of vegan menu options available to the brand’s customers around the world. *Source: Nirmal Bang- Forbes

QSR Chain 99 Pancakes Raises INR 6.5 cr To Fuel Expansion

QSR Chain 99 Pancakes Raises INR 6.5 cr To Fuel Expansion

-         Plans to open 25 outlets across India over the coming months

-         To venture in FMCG segment with pancake pre-mixes

Mumbai, May, 2022: Mumbai-headquartered quick service restaurant (QSR) chain 99 Pancakes has raised INR 6.5 crore in a round of funding through a group of angel investors. India’s first QSR chain specializing in pancakes is set to utilize the funding for aggressive expansion and marketing across India in the coming months. The brand which recently collaborated with leading kids’ entertainment channel, Cartoon Network to roll out a special summer menu for children will be further spreading its wings for such marketing associations.

Started by Mumbaikar Vikesh Shah in 2017, 99 Pancakes is a specialty QSR chain with 45 outlets operational across 14 cities - Mumbai, Surat, Pune, Varanasi, Indore, Jabalpur amongst others. The brand enjoys a dominant presence in Mumbai with 20+ outlets. This is the brand’s first round of funding and the company already has defined plans to consume the incoming funds to fuel country-wide expansion. 99 Pancakes plans to open 25 outlets, in the first phase and going ahead with more rounds of funding, it plans to penetrate in Tier 2 & 3 cities as well. The brand will follow the Company Owned Company Operated (COCO) and Franchise Owned Company Operated (FOCO) model to mark its presence all over the country. The brand will also soon enter the FMCG segment as well with the introduction of its first product as pancake premixes.

“In the last 5 years, 99 Pancakes has successfully carved a niche for itself in the QSR segment. We have grown steadily through the owned and franchise route so far. With this funding, we will steer ahead and expand our presence in Delhi, Gurgaon, Noida, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and Chennai. To maintain the SOPs and experience of the ambience and menu, we wish to keep the operational functionality with us, however to penetrate the markets all across the country, we may adopt the institutional franchise route”, said Vikesh Shah, Founder, 99 Pancakes.

Vikesh further added, “With this funding we intend to enter the FMCG segment with pancake premixes. A part of these funds will also be utilised towards brand building and marketing. We have grown organically so far and we will now adopt a strategic approach towards brand positioning and visibility through a digital first approach.”

Naresh Kamath who invests in ace start ups said multiple factors induced him to invest in this project. “Since its inception, the brand has performed steadily and has continued expanding its footprints. Despite the setback in the last two years, the brand has not only managed to sustain but also has registered very good numbers especially since the restrictions were relaxed. The F&B industry is showing great promise in the country. I am confident about its management and expect it to become one of the most popular brands in the country within a couple of years.”

99 Pancakes, which is the pioneer in the pancakes QSRs in India, is currently present across 14 cities of the country including Mumbai, Pune, Surat, Lucknow, Indore, Hyderabad amongst others. The brand offers a 100% vegetarian menu, including the speciality pancakes. Besides this,, the menu offers a variety of Waffles, Crepes, Cakes, Pastries & Desserts, French Macarons, Chocolates, Croissants, Pizzas, Shakes, Coffee & other Beverages. Customers can dine-in, take-away or order delivery through Zomato and Swiggy. The brand also recently collaborated with Cartoon Network, and rolled out a special summer menu for children inspired by the popular cartoon characters like Ben10 and Tom & Jerry. In the past, it has also collaborated with Nickelodeon and SONY.

About 99 Pancakes

99 Pancakes is one of the leading QSR chains in India specializing in a variety of pancakes. The QSR started its first outlet at Kala Ghoda in Mumbai in 2017 and within a span of 5 years already has a presence in 14 cities across India with 45+ exclusive outlets.

99Pancakes has a USP of having open kitchens in all its outlets where the customers can experience the making of the pancakes, live. Another USP of the brand is that it serves Mini Holland Pancakes with a variety of toppings. Other than pancakes, the brand also has Waffles, Crepes, Cakes, Pastries & Desserts, French Macarons, Chocolates, Croissants, Pizzas, Shakes, and Coffee & Beverages on its menu.

Nestlé a+ Mishti Doi with jaggery is a category-first innovation, launched this summer.

Nestlé a+ Mishti Doi with jaggery is a category-first innovation, launched this summer. The product is deliciously creamy and smooth, with a distinct caramelized taste of jaggery.

Commenting on this new launch Mehernosh Malia, Head  – of Dairy Business, Nestlé India said, “The taste of traditional mishti with gur is something special. Nestlé a+ Mishti Doi with jaggery is our attempt to bring this delightful experience to our consumers. Along with its traditionally known goodness, jaggery also has a distinctly rich texture which lifts the taste of our new Nestle a+ Mishti Doi.”

Nestlé a+ Mishti Doi has been launched in Delhi NCR and from July’22 onwards, will be available in Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.

Trends | SATTVIK WEDDINGS AT WELCOMHOTEL KATRA

SATTVIK WEDDINGS AT WELCOMHOTEL KATRA

Located in the heart of the divine city Katra, Welcomhotel by ITC Hotels Katra has 83 well-appointed rooms overlooking the Trikuta Hills home to Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine. Just 45 kilometres away from the Jammu airport, the hotel is an idyllic destination nestled in the lush green valleys with panoramic views. Amidst the pine trees, breathtakingly beautiful landscape, the hotel stands tall like a crown jewel of Katra city.

Welcomhotel Katra has opened new horizons for weddings and MICE in this holy city of India. The hotel offers an ideal indoor and outdoor space for events, weddings and celebrations with a seamless pillar-less banquet hall of 225 sq mt that can accommodate up to 250 guests opening into a dedicated pre function area & outdoor gardens.  

The picturesque and scenic backdrop, complimented with the culinary strengths of ITC Hotels, are an ideal combination to curate memorable experiences during weddings and wedding related events. Local delicacies like Kalahari Cheese, Rajma, Ambal, Shingare ki Kadhi, Mewe ka Kofta and Tumba Ajwain Aloo etc. will take guests on an expedition of this rich, Sattvik cuisine. 

River rafting features high on the itinerary of honeymooners. Katra has one of the best rafting stretches in the region with its fifteen-kilometer-long stretch bordered by lush green surroundings in the white waters of Chenab that is 24 kilometers from the hotel. Moreover, Bhimgarh Fort, 20 kilometers from the hotel, and hot springs, 5 kilometers away are also favoured by the tourists and honeymooners to explore. The special honeymoon package at Welcomhotel Katra offers romantic settings in privacy of one’s room.

Welcomhotel Katra is the base camp for those couples wanting to partake of the region’s picturesque attractions, including Patnitop which is just 85 kilometres by road from the hotel and the route to the hill station is truly poetic with the beautifully lined pine and cedar trees. Nathatop, 10 kilometers from Patnitop, and Sanasar, 10 kilometers from Nathatop, are two other nearby attractions where adventure activities take place and guests can revel in the nature.

Welcomhotel Katra offers a quintessential ITC Hotels culinary experience with signature dishes on offer at its two restaurants, WelcomCafe and Dough and Co. The WelcomCafe serves the best of gourmet flavours in international and regional vegetarian cuisine - it’s one of a kind in its offerings and the finest in Katra. Dough & Co. offers a range of teas and coffees with short eats to go with them with some mesmerising views of the valley and Trikuta Hills.

The WelcomSthalika represents regional fare from Jammu region, and is prepared in Sattvik style bringing out the flavors predominant in Katra and adjoining areas. Some of these local preparations are Jammu Rajma, Ambal, Shingare ki Kadhi, Mewe ka kofta and Tumba ajwain aloo.  The curated menu uses locally grown ingredients like Jammu Rajma, walnuts, almonds, badi masala, tumba ajwain, shahi zeera, saunf, sonth and more in traditional style. 

While the mere mention of Katra brings to fore images of the holy shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi, there is much more to this high point destination. Welcomhotel Katra is a destination that offers a gleeful experience to the discerning traveller with interests ranging from pure spirituality to celebration events, rest and rejuvenation in this holy city.

About Welcomhotel: www.itchotels.com/welcomhotel:

Welcomhotel is a collection of premium hotels designed for those who demand more and seek bespoke experiences to make the most out of their stay, optimizing their travel intent. With an endeavour to provide immersive and enriching experiences, the brand is reflective of the warmth of Indian culture while upholding the benchmark service standards that ITC Hotels is known for. From curated journeys that enhance leisure trips, to those that help maximize the efficiency of business stays, at WelcomHotel, every effort is made to add value to the new-age traveller.  It is this vision that helps enrich the lives of the guests, the community, and our hotel associates through integrated efforts and holistic initiatives. ITC Hotels manages and owns many hotels under the Welcomhotel brand including Welcomhotel Chail, Welcomhotel Shimla, Welcomhotel Sheraton New Delhi, Welcomhotel Mussoorie, Welcomhotel Jodhpur, Welcomhotel Fort & Dunes, Khimsar, Welcomhotel Visakhapatnam, Welcomhotel Mammalapuram, Welcomhotel Coimbatore, WelcomhotelPahalgam, WelcomhotelKatra, Welcomhotel Amritsar, Welcomhotel Bay Island (Port Blair), Welcomhotel Dwarka (New Delhi) and Welcomhotel Guntur. 

About ITC Hotels:

ITC Hotels is the largest chain of hotels in the World, which has maximum number of LEED Platinum Certified Properties. Continuing with its Planet Positive Promise, ITC Hotels launched Sunya Aqua or zero-kilometre water in glass bottles across the chain over a decade back and have taken this lead further and pioneered the mitigation of single use plastic from its operations pan India. While ITC Windsor is the first hotel in the world to achieve LEED Zero Carbon Certification, ITC Grand Chola is the largest hotel in the world to achieve the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.  ITC Gardenia is the third hotel in world to receive the LEED Zero Carbon Certification.

Japan’s Ise-Egg Collaborates with DENSO on Digitalized Reefer Truck Test Operation in NCR and Punjab

Japan’s Ise-Egg Collaborates with DENSO on Digitalized Reefer Truck Test Operation in NCR and Punjab

Enabling to deliver temperature controlled fresh, hygienic eggs to Indian tables

Noida, May, 2022: Ise-Suzuki Egg India, Ise Foods Inc.’s Indian JV affiliate announced that it will begin field testing a delivering service of fresh eggs using digitalized refrigerated trucks with DENSO International India, Japan’s leading mobility supplier. In this field test, eggs of the Japan’s largest and the world’s 5th largest egg producer, Ise Foods Inc., (aka. Ise Egg), which will be available in Indian market from May 2022, will be delivered. Ise-Suzuki Egg India and DENSO aim to build a cold chain logistics network with Ise eggs, produced indigenously in Punjab with Japanese standard of technology and know-how to produce fresh, hygienic, and nutritious eggs. 

During the field test, the two companies will use Maruti Suzuki India Limited’s Super Carry cargo vehicle equipped with DENSO’s reefer unit. This CNG reefer truck can transport perishables with the temperature ranging from –20 to +20 degrees Celsius while capturing multiple data during egg delivery, such as inside cargo temperature, humidity, luminous and shock. Ise-Suzuki Egg India and DENSO will analyze these operational data captured during delivery, identify issues, and improve optimized supply chain to realize safe and secure food delivery. 

During the test operation, the reefer trucks will deliver high quality and fresh Ise-eggs in Gurgaon, Haryana and Chandigarh Tri-city areas. 

“We are going to introduce cold chain transportation for our eggs in Indian ecosystem. Therefore, this field testing with DENSO will provide us tremendous opportunity to advance our temperature-controlled delivery to keep our eggs farm fresh. Further, we could contribute to the delivery of safe, and secure eggs managed well throughout production, collection and distribution,” says Mitsuko Takahashi, Chief Operating Officer at Ise-Suzuki Egg India.

Ise Foods Inc. has formed a joint venture with Suzuki Motor Corporation, a parent company of Maruti Suzuki India Limited, since 2019. “I believe these all-Japan joint efforts will favorably impact on India’s cold chain in the future and ultimately attribute to reduction of India’s foods waste. Our mission is to deliver fresh, healthy, and safe eggs and Ise processed foods to Indian people. 2022 marks the 70th anniversary of India-Japan diplomatic relationship. We take immense pride to initiate our launch in the country this year by introducing Indians with Ise eggs made with the best Japanese technology.” says Mitsuko Takahashi. 

Ise eggs, which will be delivered in the field testing, are machine washed and packed in a Japan standard hygienic factory making it a first such quality eggs ever produced in India. Therefore, the eggs are hygienic, very fresh and are made with Ise standard feed formula to be highly nutritious.

Hilton India and Sakurafresh join hands to introduce a range of zero alcohol beverages in India

The partnership has been forged to develop a comprehensive beverage program catering to consumers who prefer non-alcoholic beverages.

Hilton India announced a strategic beverage partnership program with Sakurafresh Beverage and Food. The collaboration marks a first-of-its-kind partnership, to drive innovation, sustainability and healthy beverage offering across all participating Hilton properties in India, showcasing Sakurafresh’s zero alcohol liqueurs, spirits and cocktail bitters.

According to Prashant Kulkarni, director F&B, India-Hilton, this collaboration will enable an elevated on-property beverage experience that will meet the evolving needs of today’s guests who choose to be sober yet socially engage with family, friends or business associates with healthier options.

As part of the strategic partnership, the Sober Soirée series of Zero Alcohol Cocktail Menus will be launched in all participating properties across India in February 2022.

The sober curiosity movement, for instance, with low-to-no ABV alcoholic beverages, is gaining momentum around the world with more people mindful of their health and drinking habits. According to Social Standards’ July 2020 COVID-19 Insights: Food & Beverage Report, the “non[1]alcoholic [category] grew 22 percent year-over-year (comparing May-Jul 2019 to May-Jul 2020).

ITC Grand Central now available through ITC App

ITC Grand Central now available through ITC App

Signature menu delights are now delivered to the doorsteps of our beloved guests through various delivery platforms available. To ensure the experience of our guests is put together with the highest standards of food safety, hygiene and speed; ITC hotels app is definitely one best choice to make.

Explore an epicurean Sojourn at home, showcasing exclusive delicacies through the ITC app. A variety of menu is available in the ITC app, to which one can decide picking from the option they want to treat their taste buds to. Few names to list from the widely loved dark kitchen options available in the ITC app are Gourmet Couch by ITC Grand Central, Biryani & Pulao collection by ITC hotels, Tiffin Tales~ South Indian Stories, Nutmeg ~ the gourmet shop and much more.

If one would love to tease their palates with wide varieties of Asian & Frontier flavours ‘Gourmet Couch’ can definitely be the right option, ‘Local love’ and ‘Indian cuisine classics’ are available in the Flavours curated by ITC Grand Central menu. As the name suggests the online restaurant ‘Biryani & Pulao collection by ITC hotels, flavourful options of vegetarian and chicken offerings in the signature biryanis are available. To name a few we have Bibi ka murgh pulao, Kale moti pulao, Nimona mirch pulao and much more.

Nutmeg is the gourmet shop available through the ITC app, which highlights cake collection, treats for one, nostalgic bakes, classic tea cakes and jars of indulgence. If you ae in a mood to take a bite of the delightfully handcrafted vanilla pistachio rolls, hazelnut and Dark chocolate cream rolls, lemon meringue tart. Tropical fruit pastry, gateau and much more, do not think twice; Nutmeg is the right go to option.

At ITC Grand Central we just don’t deliver food but, we bring signature experiences to ones’ doorsteps. Indulge in a gourmet food affair, right in the comfort of your home through the easy ITC app.
Download now and order from the ITC hotels app, and taste the finest culinary experiences put together with the highest standards of food safety.

McDonald’s India - North & East introduces new Butter Chicken and Butter Paneer Grilled Burgers, inspired by local Indian flavours

December 2021, New Delhi: Inspired by India’s popular casual dining dishes, McDonald’s India – North and East has added a makhani twist to the menu with the introduction of two new grilled burgers - Butter Chicken and Butter Paneer. These new burgers perfectly blend authentic Indian taste with international burger style that is sure to delight the hearts and tastebuds of customers across North and East India.

Both the burgers come with grilled patties oozing with deliciousness in every bite. The Butter chicken grilled burger is a sumptuous treat for chicken lovers. This burger comes with a premium, juicy grilled chicken patty topped with rich makhani sauce, layered with shredded onions and placed between freshly toasted premium buns with black and white sesame seeds.

The Butter paneer grilled burger has a mildly spiced grilled paneer patty topped with makhani sauce, sprinkled with shredded onions for the perfect crunch and placed between freshly toasted premium buns with black and white sesame seeds. The makhani sauce is made with butter, tomato, onion, garlic with a hint of fenugreek and a blend of carefully selected high quality, locally sourced ingredients, giving the burgers a truly makhani flavour.

“We have a proud legacy of bringing in authentic local flavours to meet the needs of our customers. Our new burger line-up is tastefully crafted, delicious culinary that will tickle the palates and provide gastronomic pleasure to our guests looking for authentic Butter Chicken and Butter Paneer tastes”, said Rajeev Ranjan, Chief Operating Officer, McDonald’s India – North and East.

Butter chicken grilled and butter paneer grilled burgers will be available across McDonald’s restaurants in North and East India* through dine-in, takeaway, drive-thru, McDonald’s app and through McDelivery (including Swiggy, Zomato and Magic Pin).

With Food safety and quality always at the core, all McDonald’s products go through comprehensive quality checks, from farm to table, so that the customers can enjoy safe and delicious food every time they choose McDonald’s. As a commitment to quality and safety in the current times, McDonald’s India – North and East has introduced the Global ‘Safety+’ program that includes nearly 50-plus process changes in the restaurant operations. Safety+ is a Global system of enhanced hygiene and safety practices that help ensure that every part of the McDonald’s experience is safe for its customers and employees. It builds on more than six decades of safety-first leadership in McDonald’s restaurants.

*Some locations in North and East India may not be serving the Butter Paneer and Butter Chicken grilled burgers due to some limitations. Please check with the restaurant staff for availability.

About McDonald’s India - North and East: McDonald’s restaurants in North and East of India are operated by Connaught Plaza Restaurants Pvt. Ltd. McDonald’s is committed to delivering the highest quality restaurant experience to its customers in India and serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients sourced locally. McDonald’s serves millions of customers annually at its 150 restaurants across North and East of India and provides direct employment to more than 5,000 people. With a customer-centric approach, McDonald’s operates through a variety of formats and brand extensions including standalone restaurants, Drive-thru’s, 24/7 restaurants, McDelivery for customer convenience and experience.

Drools collaborates with Chef Sanjeev Kapoor and Chef Vikas Khanna to introduce Gourmet Bites for Pets

New Delhi, December 2021: Drools, India's leading pet food brand collaborates with celebrity Chef Sanjeev Kapoor and Chef Vikas Khanna to launch Drools Gourmet Bites. To address the predicament pet parents constantly face of having to serve mundane and tasteless food to their pets, the brand has dished out two new super food varieties in association with these World Class Chefs. Very Veggie Chicken is a recipe of chicken chunks flavored with a healthy serving of pumpkin, brussel sprouts and french beans to make sure taste and health conjoin and Very Berry Chicken, a meal of chicken chunks flavored with a nutritious mix of blueberries, raspberries, cranberries and strawberries, giving it a tropical fruity twist.

Drools has witnessed a tremendous change, where families now consider canines not just as mere guard dogs but as a member of the family. People are now becoming more affectionate, sensitive and considerate towards their dogs. Catering to the dogs' health as much as their own, they understand how dietary changes can make an impact on their pets' health. These internationally acclaimed chefs known to make gourmet food for people are now entering the pet-food industry to provide the same nourishment, nutrition and love that goes into preparing meals. Drools aim to blend taste with innovation while also factoring in nutritional content as they launch these gourmet meals for pets. Prioritizing pets’ health the two variants contain super ingredients rich in antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids-Omega 3 & 6, which promote skin and coat health, maintain pets joint health, and control tartar build-up.

Drools is committed to the betterment of pets' health and is synonymous in the pet-food industry for 100% real and clean ingredients and revolutionary recipes that ensure complete nutrition. The brand has spread its footprint internationally and is available in Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Burma, Maldives, Mauritius, Oman, Nigeria, UAE, and Tanzania.

Sharing his views on the innovative new recipes for Gourmet Bites, Dr. Shashank Sinha, National Sales Director, Drools said, “Drools objective is to provide unique solutions for those nurturing pets with new and healthy recipes. We are exhilarated to announce the launch of these two new formulas of taste and health mashed into one with the help of world renowned chefs, Sanjeev Kapoor and Vikas Khanna. This collaboration is anticipated to create tides of growth.”

Sanjeev Kapoor a celebrated face of Indian Cuisine currently runs a very successful TV show in FoodFood. He has hosted Khana Khazana for more than 17 years, has sold more than 150 cookbooks and is the winner of several culinary awards. Commenting on the new collaboration, Chef Sanjeev Kapoor said, “Having contributed to the food industry all these years, it is an honour to also be able to add to the pet-food sector and introduce a completely new recipe for dogs. Amalgamating health and taste at the helm of innovation with super vegetables and chicken, I am proud to present Gourmet Bites with Drools and look forward to strengthening this bond further. ”

A Michelin star chef for the last six consecutive years, Vikas Khanna specialises in Indian cuisine. His major accomplishments include being a judge on Star Plus and Masterchef India. He has gained respect in the industry as a top-tier restaurateur and a cookbook writer. He is currently based out of New York and is making an impact across the globe. Providing his insight on this opportunity to associate with Drools, Chef Vikas Khanna said, “I’ve always had a soft spot for dogs and have realised over time that they get bored by their usual meal routines. My dog, Plum, is also very picky and choosy on certain days and just doesn’t eat. This new Gourmet Bites recipe has been inspired by a special mix of berries and chicken that I make for her at home and I am thrilled to bring it to the market with Drools.”

About Drools

Drools, one of India’s leading pet food brands established in 2010 by Fahim Sultan is the flagship brand of DROOLS PET FOOD PRIVATE LIMITED. Over the last decade, the brand has successfully become the second-largest company in the sector of pet nutrition in India. With the strength of 700+ employees, Drools has over 20,000 outlets pan India. As part of the IB Group, Drools has over 35 years of extensive experience in the field of animal nutrition.

As a leading manufacturer of specialised pet food, it aims at providing a complete and balanced diet which delivers all the essential nutrients. All products contain Real and Clean ingredients with no by-products or fillers, no artificial colours or flavours and undergo rigorous quality checks. The raw materials and ingredients used in the products are of the highest quality. The production facilities are ISO 9001:2000 certified and in sync with global standards. The plant uses German machinery and a vacuum coating process to ensure the highest quality of food.

Drools consistently endeavours to provide the best quality nutrition and products to pets. The brand understands the importance of a healthy and nutritious diet for a pet’s growth hence their in-house team of vets and nutritionists formulate the product which then undergoes stringent quality checks to ensure superior quality food, specific to the growing needs of pets. Owing to the time invested in extensive research, Drools ensures in all its products a consistent taste, better digestibility and absorption. Furthermore, the products promote muscle development, improve immunity, strengthen bones and maintain joint health.