Indian single malt, Kamet, makes a stellar debut at renowned Michelin-Starred Chef’s restaurant in Chicago

 Mixologist Chetan Gangan has ingeniously incorporated Kamet into two extraordinary and unique cocktails: Kolkata and Truffle Old Fashion. These signature concoctions showcase the versatility and superior quality of Kamet, taking the art of mixology to new heights. 

The Truffle Old Fashion, a remarkable creation by Chetan Gangan, boasts a distinctive blend of flavors. It features Kamet wash infused with burnt butter and white truffle oil, carefully stirred with white truffle Okinawa artisan black sugar syrup and enhanced with three dashes of black truffle bitters. 

Drawing inspiration from the Bengali drink Aam Pora Shorbot and the classic cocktail Penicillin, Kolkata is a captivating blend of Kamet Indian Single Malt Whisky, freshly folded ginger, and roasted mango elixir. 

The libation is then topped with a spritz of Islay Whisky and dusted with raspberry chaat masala, resulting in an enticing fusion of flavors that harmonize perfectly. 

Speaking about Kamet, Chef Chetan Gangan exclaims, “Kamet is an Indian single malt whiskey that is amazingly smooth and easygoing, making it an excellent choice for cocktail crafting. I personally love using it in Penicillin. With its fruity profile and prominent oak spice notes, complemented by hints of vanilla, caramel, and raisins, Kamet lends itself beautifully to various fruit and herb combinations. Its nutty and sweet dark chocolate undertones make it an incredible option for creative mixology.” 

Source: https://www.hotelierindia.com/fb/indian-single-malt-kamet-makes-a-stellar-debut-at-renowned-michelin-starred-chefs-restaurant-in-chicago

Interesting Whisk(e)y facts from across the globe

Whisky vs. Whiskey: The spelling of "whisky" differs between countries. Scotch whisky, Canadian whisky, and Japanese whisky use the spelling "whisky," while American and Irish varieties are spelled "whiskey."

Oldest Known Whisky: The oldest known whisky in the world is believed to be the Glenavon Special Liqueur Whisky, which was distilled in 1851 and is currently housed in the New Zealand Whisky Collection.

Scotch Whisky Regulations: To be labeled as "Scotch whisky," it must be distilled and matured in Scotland for a minimum of three years in oak casks. It must also have an alcohol content of no less than 40%.

Japanese Whisky Boom: In recent years, Japanese whisky has gained significant international acclaim. In 2015, a single malt from Japan's Yamazaki distillery was named the world's best whisky by Jim Murray's Whisky Bible.

Bourbon Whiskey: Bourbon is a type of American whiskey that must be produced in the United States and made from a mash bill that consists of at least 51% corn. It must also be aged in new charred oak barrels.

Whisky Aging: The aging process is crucial for whisky as it allows the spirit to develop its flavors and characteristics. Whisky aging is affected by various factors, including climate, type of cask used, and the location of the aging warehouse.

Whisky Angels' Share: During the aging process, whisky evaporates from the casks, resulting in what is known as the "angels' share." It refers to the portion of whisky lost to evaporation each year, typically around 2-3% of the cask's contents.

Pappy Van Winkle: Pappy Van Winkle is a highly sought-after bourbon brand known for its rarity and exceptional quality. The whiskies produced by the Van Winkle family, such as Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve, have gained a cult-like following.

Whisky Tourism: Whisky tourism has become increasingly popular, with enthusiasts visiting distilleries to learn about the whisky-making process and sample different expressions. Famous whisky regions for tourism include Scotland's Speyside, Islay, and the Kentucky Bourbon Trail in the United States.

World's Largest Whisky Collection: The world's largest whisky collection is held by a Brazilian businessman named Claive Vidiz. His collection, housed in the Scotch Whisky Experience in Edinburgh, Scotland, comprises over 3,384 different bottles.

These are just a few intriguing whisky facts from around the globe. The world of whisky is rich in history, tradition, and craftsmanship, offering a vast array of flavors and stories for enthusiasts to explore.

History of American Whiskies

 American whiskies have a rich history that dates back to the colonial era. The production of whiskey in America began with the arrival of European settlers who brought with them the knowledge and traditions of distillation.

In the early days of American whiskey production, various grains such as corn, rye, and barley were used as the primary ingredients. This led to the development of different styles of whiskey, each with its own unique characteristics and production methods.

One of the earliest styles of American whiskey is Bourbon, which originated in Kentucky in the late 18th century. Bourbon is made primarily from corn and must be aged in new charred oak barrels. The name "Bourbon" is believed to have been derived from Bourbon County, Kentucky, although the exact origin of the name is debated.

Another popular style of American whiskey is rye whiskey. Rye whiskey is made primarily from rye grain and has a spicier flavor profile compared to Bourbon. Rye whiskey was widely produced in the northeastern states, particularly Pennsylvania and Maryland, in the 18th and 19th centuries.

During the Prohibition era in the United States (1920-1933), the production, sale, and distribution of alcoholic beverages, including whiskey, were prohibited. This led to a decline in the whiskey industry, with many distilleries shutting down or switching to alternative products. However, some distilleries managed to survive by obtaining permits to produce whiskey for medicinal purposes or by operating underground.

After the repeal of Prohibition, the American whiskey industry experienced a resurgence. Distilleries resumed production, and new ones were established. American whiskey gained popularity both domestically and internationally, with Bourbon and rye whiskey leading the way.

In recent years, there has been a significant growth in the popularity of American whiskies, both in the United States and around the world. Craft distilleries have emerged, producing small-batch and artisanal whiskies that cater to a diverse range of tastes and preferences.

The whiskey industry in America continues to evolve, with innovations in production techniques, aging methods, and flavor profiles. American whiskies are now enjoyed by whiskey enthusiasts worldwide and have become a symbol of American craftsmanship and tradition.

Types of Scotch Whiskies

 Scotch Whisky is one of the most popular alcoholic beverages in the world, known for its distinct flavor and aroma. Scotch is a type of whisky that is made in Scotland, and it is known for its complex taste and distinct aromas. There are various types of Scotch Whiskies available in the market, and each has its unique characteristics. In this report, we will discuss the different types of Scotch Whiskies and their features.

Types of Scotch Whiskies:

Single Malt Scotch Whisky: Single malt Scotch Whisky is made from 100% malted barley and is produced at a single distillery. It is considered the purest form of Scotch Whisky and is often aged for at least three years in oak casks. Single malt Scotch Whisky is known for its rich and complex flavors, which can vary depending on the distillery where it is produced.

Blended Scotch Whisky: Blended Scotch Whisky is a combination of different types of whiskies, including single malt and grain whiskies. It is the most popular type of Scotch Whisky and accounts for over 90% of Scotch Whisky sales worldwide. Blended Scotch Whisky is known for its consistent flavor and is often aged for at least three years in oak casks.

Single Grain Scotch Whisky: Single Grain Scotch Whisky is made from 100% grains other than malted barley, such as wheat or corn. It is produced at a single distillery and is often used as a base for blended Scotch Whisky. Single Grain Scotch Whisky is known for its light and sweet flavor, which makes it a popular choice for mixing with other drinks.

Blended Malt Scotch Whisky: Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is a combination of different single malt whiskies from different distilleries. It is also known as "vatted malt" or "pure malt" whisky. Blended Malt Scotch Whisky is known for its complex and layered flavors, which are the result of blending whiskies from different distilleries.

Conclusion:

Scotch Whisky is a complex and sophisticated alcoholic beverage that comes in different types and flavors. Each type of Scotch Whisky has its unique characteristics and is produced using different methods. Whether you prefer the rich and complex flavor of Single Malt Scotch Whisky or the consistency of Blended Scotch Whisky, there is a type of Scotch Whisky out there that is perfect for you. Knowing the different types of Scotch Whiskies and their features can help you make an informed choice when selecting the right whisky for your taste.

Indian Single Malt Whiskies

 Indian Single Malt Whiskies are becoming increasingly popular among whisky lovers around the world. India has a long history of whisky production, but it is only in recent years that Indian Single Malt Whiskies have begun to gain recognition for their unique and complex flavors.

Indian Single Malt Whiskies are made using the same basic ingredients as Scottish Single Malt Whiskies: malted barley, water, and yeast. However, there are a few key differences in the production process that give Indian Single Malt Whiskies their distinctive character.

One of the most significant differences is the use of Indian barley. Most Indian Single Malt Whiskies are made using barley grown in India, which has a different flavor profile than Scottish barley due to the differences in soil and climate. This results in whiskies with unique, fruity, and spicy notes that are not found in Scottish Single Malts.

Another key difference is the use of Indian oak barrels for aging. Indian oak has a different flavor profile than the European and American oak typically used in Scottish whisky production. Indian oak tends to be more porous, which allows the whisky to absorb more flavor from the wood, resulting in a more intense and complex flavor profile.

The climate in India also plays a significant role in the production of Indian Single Malt Whiskies. The hot and humid climate causes the whisky to mature at a much faster rate than in Scotland, resulting in whiskies with a more intense and mature flavor profile in a shorter period of time.

Some of the most popular Indian Single Malt Whiskies include Amrut Single Malt, Paul John Single Malt, and Rampur Single Malt. Each of these whiskies has its unique flavor profile, but all of them are known for their complexity, richness, and depth of flavor.

In conclusion, Indian Single Malt Whiskies are a unique and exciting addition to the world of whisky. They offer a distinctive flavor profile that is different from Scottish Single Malt Whiskies and are gaining recognition as some of the best single malts in the world. With their unique use of Indian barley and oak, along with the hot and humid climate, Indian Single Malt Whiskies are a must-try for any whisky lover looking for something new and exciting.

Difference between Whisky and Whiskey

 The main difference between whisky and whiskey is the country of origin and the spelling.

Whisky without the "e" is the term generally used for the spirit produced in Scotland, Canada, and Japan, as well as in some other countries that follow their methods of production.

Whiskey with the "e" is the term generally used for the spirit produced in Ireland and the United States, as well as some other countries that follow their methods of production.

There are also some differences in production methods and flavor profiles between different types of whiskies and whiskeys, but the spelling is the easiest way to distinguish between the two.

The growth of Indian Single Malt Whiskies

 In recent years, the growth of Indian single malt whiskies has been significant, with a number of Indian distilleries producing high-quality, award-winning single malts. Here are some reasons for this growth:

Unique Terroir: India's climate and geography provide a unique terroir that allows distilleries to create single malt whiskies with distinctive flavors and aromas. The high altitude and temperature differences between day and night lead to faster maturation of the whiskies in Indian oak barrels.

Innovation: Indian distilleries have been experimenting with various types of casks and aging techniques to create new and unique flavors. For example, Amrut Distilleries has been aging some of its whiskies in casks that previously held Indian fortified wine.

International Recognition: Indian single malt whiskies have been gaining international recognition, winning awards and accolades from prestigious competitions such as the World Whiskies Awards and the International Wine and Spirits Competition. This has helped raise the profile of Indian single malt whiskies and boost their popularity.

Rising Demand: With the growing affluence of India's middle class, the demand for premium spirits has increased, including single malt whiskies. This has encouraged Indian distilleries to invest in the production of high-quality single malts.

Overall, the growth of Indian single malt whiskies can be attributed to a combination of unique terroir, innovation, international recognition, and rising demand.

PHO, RAMEN, SOBA & UDON (The world of Noodles)

 Pho, Soba, Ramen, and Udon are all popular noodle dishes from different Asian countries, each with its own unique flavor and preparation.

Pho:

Pho is a Vietnamese noodle soup consisting of rice noodles, broth, meat (usually beef or chicken), herbs, and spices. The broth is usually made by simmering beef or chicken bones with spices such as star anise, cinnamon, and cloves, which gives it a rich and flavorful taste. The noodles are thin and flat and are often accompanied by bean sprouts, lime wedges, chili peppers, and fresh herbs such as cilantro, basil, and mint. Pho is typically served as a breakfast or lunch dish and is often enjoyed with a side of hoisin sauce or Sriracha sauce.

Soba:

Soba is a Japanese noodle dish made from buckwheat flour and wheat flour. The noodles are thin and usually served cold with a dipping sauce or hot in a soup. Soba is often eaten as a healthy alternative to other noodle dishes because buckwheat is high in protein, fiber, and antioxidants. Soba can be served with a variety of toppings such as sliced green onions, seaweed, and tempura. It is a versatile dish and can be enjoyed in many different ways.

Ramen:

Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup consisting of Chinese-style wheat noodles, broth, meat (usually pork, chicken, or beef), and toppings such as sliced pork, green onions, and soft-boiled eggs. The broth can be made in several ways, including shoyu (soy sauce), miso (fermented soybean paste), and tonkotsu (pork bone). Ramen is a popular dish in Japan and has become popular around the world. It is often served in ramen shops and can be customized with various toppings to suit individual tastes.

Udon:

Udon is a Japanese noodle dish made from wheat flour, water, and salt. The noodles are thick and chewy and are often served in a hot soup or cold with a dipping sauce. Udon can be served with a variety of toppings, including tempura, green onions, and grated daikon radish. It is a popular dish in Japan and is often enjoyed during the colder months as a hearty and warming meal.

In summary, Pho, Soba, Ramen, and Udon are all popular noodle dishes from different Asian countries, each with its own unique flavor and preparation. Whether you prefer a hearty noodle soup or a cold noodle dish, there is sure to be a noodle dish that suits your tastes.

Wine consumption trends in Indian Market

 In recent years, there has been a growing trend of wine consumption in India. With a rapidly growing middle class and increasing awareness of wine culture, the Indian wine market has seen significant growth. However, wine consumption in India still remains relatively low compared to other countries, as cultural and socioeconomic factors continue to limit its widespread adoption.

The wine market in India is dominated by imported wines, with domestic production accounting for only a small portion of the total market. Popular wine-consuming regions in India include Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Pune. The Indian wine industry is also driven by a growing number of wine-tasting events and wine clubs, which are helping to create a culture of wine appreciation.

Additionally, the Indian government has implemented various measures to promote the domestic wine industry, such as reducing import duties on wine and encouraging investment in the sector. This, along with increasing disposable income and changing lifestyles, is expected to drive further growth in the Indian wine market in the coming years.

Overall, the wine consumption trend in India is positive, but there is still much room for growth. The Indian wine market is expected to continue to grow as the country's economy continues to expand and more people are exposed to wine culture.

:/https/www.youtube.com/channel/UCtEmIqoo7SW9iqEG1nM1s6w

Rohan Matmary wins Glenfiddich’s World’s Most Experimental bartender India title

Rohan Matmary from Bangalore bagged World’s Most Experimental Bartender 2018 title at the India leg of the compettion organised by Glenfiddich, world’s most awarded single malt Scotch Whisky. Matmary was paired with famous musician, Sonam Kalra at the competition and was selected as the India winners by the jury comprising  Mandira Bedi, Zorawar Kalra, Gaurav Gupta, Thukral and Tagra, Nikhil Arora, James Pennefather and Vikram Aditya. 

The wining duo will now go on to compete against other market winners on a trip to the Glenfiddich Experimental Bartender Academy in Scotland, where they will have the opportunity to bring their concept to life. The winner will be awarded with the title of ‘The World’s Most Experimental Bartender’ and Glenfiddich will, thereafter work with the winning duo throughout 2018 to showcase their creativity globally and bring it to life for on-trade. 

Six finalists were paired with eminent figures from different industries and walks of life at the competition. 

The winning cocktail created by winning pair was titled ‘Zarra’, an Urdu word meaning ‘particle’. Zarra starts with the award winning Glenfiddich 12-year-old, infused with cranberry, tiny tangerines, egg white and sage infusion, hibiscus, and rhubarb which resonated well with the fruity and floral notes of the Glenfiddich 12-year-old single malt whisky. Rohan mixed these seemingly disparate elements together, just as Sonam harmoniously blended beautiful melodies with poetry at the competition.

 Commenting on the awards, Angad Singh Gandhi, Brand Ambassador, Glenfiddich India said, “Glenfiddich has always been at the forefront of innovation, and through this unique pairing of bartenders and collaborators, we once again established ourselves as an ignition platform for creative expression. The experience created by Rohan Matmary and Sonam Kalra was truly experimental as it perfectly brought out the best of both the creative individuals. We wish them all the very best as they set out to compete for the global title.”

Source: hospitalitybizindia.com