49th Edition E-Magazine Blogs

Malay Kumar Rout The founder of WSCI (Wine & Spirits Club of India) VDP.Die Prädikatsweingüter is the world’s oldest association of premium wine estates, uniting nearly 200 of Germany’s most skilled and dedicated winegrowers. Despite their diverse regions and winemaking philosophies, they share a common commitment to crafting wines that authentically express their unique origins. Each bottle is a distinct reflection of its maker’s passion and terroir, united under the globally revered symbol of the VDP.Eagle.Any wine bearing the VDP.Eagle signifies a promise to convey the specific vineyard character 18 and exceptional craftsmanship of one of the VDP’s elite members. This hallmark has elevated German wine to a position of international prestige and elite status, known for its unmistakable quality and individuality. Founded in 1910, the Verband Deutscher Prädikatsweingüter (VDP) represents about 3% of German wine production but includes up to 55% of Riesling vineyards, emphasizing sustainable viticulture and historic vineyard quality. The VDP’s private classification system, rooted in tradition and ecological stewardship, places rigorous quality standards on its members, shaping Germany’s global reputation for premium, terroir-driven wines.As the members prepare to showcase their finest selections at ProWine Mumbai 2025 being held on 31st October to 1st November at the Jio, World Convention Center, Mumbai, here the importers gain a unique opportunity to engage with a concentrated portfolio symbolizing authentic German quality and innovation. “I think it’s great that 10 wineries from our association (VDP.Die Prädikatsweingüter) will be present at Prowine Mumbai for the first time. They come from seven wine regions in Germany and thus offer a great overview of what makes German wines so special: exciting Rieslings from the best origins and terroirs, surprising Pinot Noirs, and sparkling wines that are still an insider tip. Despite the individuality of the VDP wineries, the eagle on each bottle provides guidance. It is a guarantee of craftsmanship, tradition, and pioneering spirit. And it is recognized around the world as a prime example of German wine culture. Now the VDP eagle is landing in Mumbai, and I am sure it will find many fans.” Hilke Dalhem Co-President, VDP LIST OF WINNERIES TO EXPECT AT PROWINE MUMBAI 2025 B L A N K E N H O R N (Est. 1847) Pinot Noir, Gutedel, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris + others 22.10 acres in Baden, Schliengen Wines: 2020 SONNENSTÜCK, Schliengen Pinot Noir VDP.GG / 2021 ÖLACKER, Schliengen Pinot Noir / 2022 SONNENSTÜCK, Schliengen Chardonnay VDP.GG / 2024 Schliengen Chasselas Present in : Netherlands, Denmark, Switzerland, Belgium, USA A young winery with a long tradition, blending modern architecture with classic wine maturation in large wooden barrels. Certified sustainable with focus on elegant wines. “We want to give the wines the time they need before they come onto the market. We work close to nature, certified sustainable according to Fair’n Green, and appreciate elegant wines that suit every occasion.” — Martin Männer Martin Männer – [email protected] F Ü R S T L I C H C A S T E L L ‘ S C H E DOMÄNE (Est. 1774 | VDP Since 1914) 41% Silvaner, 12% Müller-Thurgau, 9% Pinot Blanc, 8% Riesling + others 73.30 acres in Franken, Castell Wines: 2024 Fürst Castell Silvaner trocken/ 2019 SCHLOSSBERG Casteller Silvaner VDP.GG / 2024 Cas “tell me” white / 2023 Fürst Castell Alabaster Weißwein Cuveé SPITZENWEINWeißwein Cuveé SPITZENWEIN Present in :Netherlands, Belgium, Norway, Korea, Singapore One of Germany’s oldest estates, pioneering Silvaner since 1659, owning monopole top vineyards on gypsum marl soils with sustainable practices. “Our wines have a clear line and pronouncedsingle-vineyard character. We vinify mainly dryand puristic white wines focused on Silvaner, withlongevity and concentration influenced by ourunique terroir.” Peter Geil, Elisabeth Finkbeiner –[email protected] BASSERMANN-JORDAN (Est. 1718 | VDP since 1910) Riesling plus Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay & others 51.90 acres in Pfalz, Deidesheim Wines: 2018 Pierre brut nature (Chardonnay) Sekt / 2019 Ruppertsberg Spätburgunder / 2024 Deidesheim Riesling Kabinett feinherb / 2024 Forster Ziegler Riesling trocken | VDP.ERSTES GEWÄCHS® Diverse Riesling vineyards with 1/3 in top sites. Committed to organic viticulture and producing terroir-driven, expressive wines. “Natural, organic viticulture is the indispensable prerequisite for the subsequent, gentle and individual vinification. This gives us mineral, sustainable, storable, and highly aromatic wines.” André Jankowski, Tamara Fränzle – [email protected] KARL SCHAEFER (Est. 1843 | VDP since 1935) Riesling plus Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Pinot Noir 17.60 acres in Pfalz, Bad Dürkheim Wines : N.V. Blanc de Blanc Brut nature Sekt/ 2022 Dürkheimer Spielberg “Schöne Anna” Spätlese/ 2022 Wachenheimer Gerümpel trocken / 2021 WEILBERG Ungstein Riesling trocken Historic estate with terraced vineyards on diverse soils, emphasizing organic cultivation and long maturation on lees.”We highlight variations in soils and maintain vineyard authenticity with organic farming. Our wines are true to origin, handcrafted, and honest, reflecting the best sites.” Nana von Nell, Richard Menzel – [email protected] KARTHÄUSERHOF (Est. 1335 | VDP since 1910) Riesling, Pinot Blanc 28.00 acres in Mosel, Trier-Eitelsbach Wines: Karthäuserhof BRUT Sekt / 2023 Karthäuserhofberg Riesling / 2023 KARTHÄUSERHOFBERG, Eitelsbach Riesling Kabinett / 2003 KARTHÄUSERHOFBERG, Eitelsbach Riesling Spätlese Present in : Norway, USA, Czech Republic, Italy, Sweden Eighth oldest winery globally, sole owner of monopoly vineyard KARTHÄUSERHOFBERG with legendary Riesling tradition and unique neck loop label.”We cultivate our extraordinary vineyard in harmony with nature, upholding a unique Riesling tradition. Our wines focus on minerality, precision, and freshness—clear, transparent, and full of race.” — Albert P. Behler Kevin Kleu – [email protected] MAXIMIN GRÜNHAUS (Est. 1882 | VDP since 1921) Riesling, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Noir 37.40 acres in Mosel, MertesdorfWines: 2023 ABTSBERG Maximin Grünhaus Pinot Noir GG/ 2018 ABTSBERG Maximin Grünhaus Riesling GG / 2020 HERRENBERG Maximin Grünhaus Riesling Spätlese/ 2023 Schloss Riesling Kabinett Present in : Great Britain, Switzerland, Norway, USA, China Monopole vineyard Maximin Grünhaus with VDP.GROSSE LAGE® sites and nearly 2,000 years of wine tradition. Unique castle architecture and sixth family generation stewardship.”Living and tasting sustainable, elegant Maximin Grünhaus wines is our philosophy. Tradition, joy, and commitment to nature inspire everything we do.” Maximin von Schubert, Maximin von Schubert- [email protected] VAN

From Features Desk Two years ago, Terminal 2 at Kempegowda International Airport opened its doors and instantly redefined what an airport could feel like called Terminal in a Garden for its architecture draped in greenery and inspired by the city’s botanical soul, it quickly became more than a point of transit. For Bengaluru Duty Free, it marked the beginning of a new chapter, one that has since unfolded with exclusive launches, bold campaigns, and an outpouring of appreciation from travellers across the world. International recognition has followed too. The Moodie Davitt Report spotlighted Bengaluru Arrivals Duty Free with the question of whether it might be the world’s best, a moment of pride that reflected both design excellence and retail innovation.From the moment a passenger steps into Terminal 2, the design sets the tone. The departures store, spanning 1100 square meters, feels like a glass pavilion with sweeping light and patterns that echo Lalbagh Gardens. The arrivals store, spread across 1200 square meters, borrows its character from Bengaluru’s skyline and urban buzz.Together, they have already welcomed and catered to over five million passengers in 2024 alone. This is not retail squeezed into a terminal, it is retail as a living, breathing extension of the city itself. Travellers often describe this space with a sense of pride. Online, many share how it feels to walk out of immigration and be greeted with the words “Welcome to Bengaluru” under soaring ceilings and local art installations. It is, as one frequent flyer put it, a place that gives you goosebumps.With Terminal 2 our attempt is to redefine the travel experience in India, and Bengaluru Duty Free is at the heart of this transformation. By placing Indian and global brands on the same stage, we are shaping a retail journey that is both aspirational and inclusive. Looking forward, our focus is on scaling this success and positioning BLR Airport as one of the world’s most admired travel hubs. – Airport Statement A key highlight of these two years has been the way Bengaluru Duty Free has placed Indian products on the global stage. While international spirits, perfumes, and chocolates remain a core part of the mix, Terminal 2 has given homegrown names the space to shine just as brightly. In 2024, Bengaluru Duty Free exclusive launches introduced Amrut Nativity on 14 February 2024, Paul John Single Cask on 30 May 2024, Rampur Vintage Select Casks on 11 September 2024, Indri City Series on 7 October 2024, and Yaksha Blue Moon on 11 December 2024. In 2025, travel exclusive first in India launches are led by Godawan Triple Cask Travel Exclusive on 15 June 2025 and Amrut Expedition on 21 August 2025, the latter being India’s most expensive single malt whisky release yet. By placing these offerings alongside global icons, Bengaluru Duty Free has not only expanded choice but also highlighted India’s evolving identity in the world of luxury and lifestyle.Bengaluru Duty Free brings together India’s finest award-winning spirits. Paul John shines with Nirvana, a Gold Medalist with 22+ global wins, and its ultra-rare Single Cask Exclusive. Amrut continues its legacy with Fusion, crowned “World’s Best Whiskey” 2024, and Triparva, a Gold Medalist in the USA. Indri adds prestige with its 50+ award-winning Triple Cask and the Bengaluru-exclusive City Series. Godawan has also made its mark internationally, winning Best Single Malt – Godawan at the 2024 International Taste Institute Awards, Gold for Single Malt F&S and R&R at the Spirits Awards 2025 by Monde Selection, and Triple Platinum at the MLSA Competition 2025.“BIAL and Avolta have created something truly unique—a duty free that not only sells but tells the story of Bengaluru and India. Looking ahead, our goal is to continue blending international excellence with local pride, introducing more homegrown products to the global stage and creating experiences that make every journey unforgettable” – David Grady The shopping journey here has been carefully crafted to go beyond transactions. The iconic elephant installation in the store has become a photo worthy symbol of Terminal 2, blending sense of place with retail storytelling. Technology plays a crucial role in making the journey immersive. Digital touchpoints guide travelers through categories and help them explore with ease, including Fragrance Finder, Whisky Finder, and Virtual Make up Try on. These devices understand customer requirements and suggest products based on customer profiling, so every traveller finds something personal and memorable. Campaigns have also played a major role in building excitement. The Q4 2024 Raining Gold campaign struck a chord with passengers and brought a festive sparkle to the duty-free experience. There were 16 total winners. The first prize was 200 grams of 22k gold, and the remaining 15 winners received 90 grams each. Building on this success, Q4 2025 is set to raise the bar further with multiple campaigns that offer customers more opportunities to win prizes, and that reinforce Bengaluru Duty Free as more than a store. It is an experience to look forward to.The response from passengers has made it clear that this balance resonates deeply. From reviews to enthusiastic posts on social media, travelers consistently highlight how refreshing it feels to see Indian products celebrated on such a visible platform. Many describe the experience as world class yet unmistakably local. Looking back, the milestone is not just about striking design or exclusive categories introduced. It is about the shift in perception that Bengaluru Duty Free has driven. By showcasing India’s own talent and products to millions of international and domestic travelers, it has placed the country’s brands firmly in the global spotlight.Two years on, it is clear that Bengaluru Duty Free has achieved something rare. It has created a destination inside a destination, an airport space that travelers actively look forward to visiting. It stands as proof that retail in India can be both global in sophistication and proudly local in soul. With year-on-year growth at an impressive pace, placeholder for growth percent year on year, and with more launches and campaigns in the pipeline, the journey ahead

From Features Desk Each year, Tim Atkin MW’s South Africa Special Report sets the tone for the global perception of Cape wines. Now in its 12th edition, the 2025 report is among his most comprehensive to date: a 319-page volume, drawn from tasting 2 000 wines across 397 wineries, and outlining ten key findings on the state of South African wine.This year, Atkin reserved special praise for the industry’s shift towards regenerative farming. He highlights how producers are embracing soil health, biodiversity, precision viticulture, and integrated pest management as essential tools to address climate challenges and secure long-term vineyard resilience.Nederburg – A Regenerative Leader Nederburg, a WWF Conservation Champion since 2020, has long been ahead of the curve. From pioneering water stewardship to extensive land rehabilitation, the winery views sustainability as a never-ending journey. Practices such as planting cover crops, farming with drought-resistant rootstocks, and applying precision irrigation tools have already delivered water savings of up to 40% since 2011.Beyond water, the team actively restores natural habitats, removes alien vegetation, harvests rainwater, and recycles winery wastewater through advanced systems.In the vineyards, insectary flora support natural pest control, while compost and biochar—produced from grape waste and plant matter—are used to enrich soils and accelerate carbon sequestration. Importantly, Nederburg extends these learnings to its grower partners, amplifying its impact across the supply chain.“For us, soil is life,” the team explains. “By nurturing the land, we not only lighten our footprint but also grow better fruit, leading to wines that truly express their origin.”Awarded Wines in the 2025 Report Nederburg’s commitment to vineyard and cellar excellence translated into strong results in Atkin’s 2025 report, with seven wines scoring 90 points and above.Our pick of the Nederburg wines: Heritage Heroes The Anchorman Old Vine Project Chenin Blanc 2024 – 90 points.Swartland “Fermented and aged in older wood and 30% amphoras, this is a welcome sign of some new ideas at Nederburg. Lightly wooded, textured and exotic, it has a pleasing combination of pineapple, guava and citrus fruit flavours, old vine concentration and supporting acidity.”Nederburg Private Bin Two R163 Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 – 93 points Paarl “My pick of the current line-up of Nederburg reds, this is a new-oak aged Cabernet Sauvignon from the slopes of Simonsberg-Paarl. Bold, dense and well-structured, it has appealing mocha and coffee bean aromas, plum, damson and blackcurrant pastille flavours and a sense of purpose and self-confidence.”Nederburg Private Bin Two Centuries Cabernet Sauvignon 2022 – 92 points Coastal “Based on grapes from Stellenbosch, with a small Paarl component, this is a structured red that has the concentration to carry its 100% new wood. Appealing dark chocolate and eucalyptus aromas lead you into a palate of damson, cassis and blood orange complemented by fresh acidity and firm tannins.”Nederburg The Winemasters Noble Late Harvest 2024 – 93 points Western Cape “Rich, sweet and complex, this is a 100% botrytis-affected blend of Muscat de Frontignan, Chenin Blanc and Weisser Riesling from Darling and Stellenbosch-Paarl. Exotic and intense, it has layers of passion fruit, honey and apricot, subtle volatility, supporting acidity and a clean, tangy, well-balanced finish.”A Path Forward Atkin’s 2025 report underscores that regenerative farming is no longer optional but central to the future of South African wine. Nederburg’s results confirm that sustainability and excellence go hand-in-hand—proof that wines made with care for the earth can shine just as brightly in the glass.

From Features Desk In the rain-soaked hills of Meghalaya, where clouds spill over cliffs and forests drip with monsoon memories, a quiet revolution is underway. It comes not in the form of policy or protest, but in a steel bottle filled with liquid craft. This is Cherrapunji Eastern Craft Gin, India’s first premium gin distilled from rainwater, and the country’s first spirit from the Northeast to be exported to international markets.Behind this remarkable creation is Mayukh Hazarika, a Shillong native and the founder of Raincheck Earth Co. His vision was deceptively simple: to create a gin that belongs to its place, both in flavour and in philosophy. “Our approach to distilling, bottling and sourcing is rooted in sustainability,” Hazarika says, “we wanted to show that craft can be innovative without being wasteful.”Rainwater in a Bottle Cherrapunji and nearby Mawsynram are known to be the wettest regions in the world, receiving an astonishing 11,872 mm of rainfall annually. For centuries, this abundance has been romanticised in postcards and geography textbooks. Hazarika chose to capture it in a glass, or rather, in steel. The gin is distilled from harvested rainwater and stored in 100-kilolitre tanks made of corrosion-resistant steel, ensuring purity and sustainability.Unlike most global brands that rely heavily on groundwater, Cherrapunji Gin embraces the idea of climate responsiveness. Its rainwater base is paired with a dozen native botanicals sourced within a few hundred kilometres of the distillery: the GI-tagged ‘Khasi mandarin’ and ‘Kaji Nemu’ (Assamese lemon) lend bright citrus notes, Himalayan juniper berries form the smooth base, and the addition of wild peppercorns, black and green cardamoms, and smoked tea from Mizoram’s Lushai Hills gives it layers of spice, warmth, and a smoky aftertaste. The result is a spirit that feels both local and world-class; rooted in terroir yet universal in appeal.Steel Over Glass Perhaps the boldest design choice lies not in the recipe but in the packaging. Cherrapunji Gin comes in a reusable, military-grade steel bottle weighing barely 158 grams,nearly two-thirds lighter than standard glass bottles of the same size. This reduces freight emissions, eliminates breakage, and turns packaging into a tool rather than waste. “There’s no reason packaging has to be discarded,” Hazarika insists, “If someone reuses the bottle every day, we’ve succeeded.”At a time when even premium global spirits are still wedded to ornate glass, this move signals a radical rethink. It’s not sustainability as a marketing claim; it’s sustainability as product design.From Shillong to the World Launched in 2021, Cherrapunji Gin has already carved a space in the global spirits conversation. It is available across the European Union and soon in Japan, Thailand, and the UK. The brand has collected 14 international medals in just two years, including a Double Gold Medal at the 2025 SIP Awards in California, the world’s only major spirits competition judged exclusively by consumers. Out of 1,200 entries from 60 countries, fewer than 2 percent earned the accolade. For Hazarika, this recognition is personal: “To have our gin, rooted in Meghalaya’s rain and local identity, resonate with everyday drinkers in California is a reminder that authenticity and craft can connect across cultures.”The brand’s innovative model has also caught academic attention. The Indian Institute of Management has developed a case study on Raincheck Earth Co., citing it as a pioneering example of blending sustainability with premium craft. More Than a Drink Cherrapunji Gin isn’t merely another entrant into India’s growing craft spirits market, it is a distilled story of its geography, rain bottled, biodiversity preserved, and culture celebrated. Its citrus-forward, smoky-earthy profile makes it versatile: enjoyable neat, with a tonic, or in cocktails where its complexity shines. As the global spirits industry grapples with sustainability, Cherrapunji Gin suggests a playbook that feels both Indian and forward-looking; local sourcing, climate-conscious design, and storytelling that doesn’t imitate but innovates. In a world often thirsty for authenticity, perhaps the wettest place on Earth has offered just the drink to quench it.

From Features Desk Launched by Diageo in 2009, World Class was created to celebrate cocktail culture and elevate bartending into a true art form. More than a competition, it gives bartenders a global stage to showcase creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation, while championing diversity, sustainability and positive drinking. By placing Diageo’s World Class portfolio at the heart of exceptional drinking experiences, it inspires people to drink better, not more and drives a deeper appreciation for modern mixology. Since its debut in India in 2011, World Class has become the country’s most prestigious bartending platform treating bartenders like the rockstars they are and unlocking careers that transcend borders. The very first Indian winner, Hemant Pathak, is now General Manager at Junoon, a Michelin-starred restaurant in New York a testament to how this stage can transform talent into global success stories. The Competition: A Platform for Excellence World Class India remains the country’s only bartending competition that celebrates cocktail craftsmanship at the highest level. Each year, the program unfolds through citywide roadshows, training sessions and mentorships designed to nurture the next generation of mixology stars. In the last three years, World Class India has exploded with 120% year-on-year growth, a 30% rise in female participation and stronger, more diverse talent than ever before.The country’s only platform for World Class bartending now draws 700+ bartenders across 10 cities with 425+ entries distilled to a Top 100, then a thrilling Top 16, before the ultimate national final. More than a competition, World Class India champions creativity, inclusion, and innovation, welcoming rising female talent, fresh regional voices and bartenders with disabilities. With every shake and stir, it continues to elevate India’s cocktail culture – proving the nation’s bartenders are true world-class rockstars. Aashie Bhatnagar, 2023 World Class India Winner, reflects on her journey: “Preparation goes far beyond the glass. I spent months researching flavour profiles, understanding the history of spirits, and rehearsing every detail of my presentation. It’s about storytelling as much as it is about technique.” Minakshi Singh, World Class Global & India Jury adds: “World Class is not just about making the perfect drink it’s about vision. We want to see bartenders who can express culture, sustainability and personality through every cocktail. The true winners are those who can connect with people as much as they wow them with technique.” From Industry Stage to Consumer Festival Once the champion is crowned, the excitement spills beyond the trade into a full-fledged consumer spectacle. The World Class Cocktail Festival brings India’s top bars to life, offering cocktail enthusiasts a chance to sip, savour, and celebrate the finest serves from the country’s best talent. This energy culminates in the World Class Cocktail Festival a two day ticketed extravaganza where cocktail culture meets music, art, and culinary excellence. Here, consumers step into a world inspired by Diageo’s Reserve portfolio, enjoying: World Class Bar takeovers by past winners, alumni, and global icons. Interactive brand workshops where guests learn to craft their own elevated cocktails. A curated food experience featuring top restaurants pairing small plates with signature cocktails. Live performances from celebrated artists such as Edward Maya, Tech Panda x Kanzani, and more. The scale is staggering over 2500 attendees, 5800+ cocktails, a 19 million+ social media reach, and 1.8 million+ engagements. From intimate masterclasses like the Don Julio 1942 session with global ambassador Karina Sanchez to the debut of the World Class x Speed X Home Bar, every touchpoint is designed to inspire. The Legacy Continues This September, Bartender of the year Navjot Singh will carry the country’s pride to Toronto, competing against winners from 55 nations on the global stage. His journey is a reminder of what World Class India stands for celebrating cocktail culture, inspiring exceptional artisans and proving that India’s bartending talent is ready to take on the world. From its humble beginnings in 2011 to today’s record-breaking festivals, World Class India remains more than a competition it’s a cultural force, building credibility for Indian mixology and encouraging everyone to drink better, not more. Let’s Make It World Class!