The Only Feed You Need: Booze, Buzz & Beyond

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Rojita Tiwari wears many hats — and most of them come with a pour. A globetrotting drinks writer, sommelier, educator, consultant, and certified booze judge (yes, that’s a real job), she’s been stirring things up since 2006. Founder of Drinks & Destinations, India’s go-to consultancy for all things wine, spirits, and strategy, Rojita has introduced Baijiu to India, helped launch a Whisky, and judges everything from wine to whisky, rum, gin, vodka, mezcal, baijiu to sake at top global competitions such as CMB and Spirits Selection. She’s bagged titles like Best Wine & Food Influencer (Wine Travel Awards 2023), Ambassador of the Industry Title and twice made it to the “Top Ten Women in Wine in India” list — cheers to that! She is also the only certified International Ambassador of Moutai Flavour Baijius in India. You’ll find her words in Drinks International, Whisky & More, Rumporter, Mint Lounge, Spiritz, Sommelier India and more. Want to raise a glass or a campaign? Reach her @drinksanddestinations or email drinksanddestinations@gmail.com. Cheers!

The Drinks & Destinations Podcast Ep. 14: Bizarre and Weird Drinks From around the World

March 2, 2017

Listen to the episode here.

Wine made with Saliva, Baby mice, Snake or a drink made by mixing beer with milk. They may sound bizarre to you but our world is full of surprises. In this episode of the Drinks & Destinations Podcast hosts, Rojita & Sameera bring to you some of the weirdest drinks which you may or may not have heard of. Hit play and tune into the episode now to know more about these drinks. If we have missed out on some, do write to us and let us know at drinksanddestinations@gmail.com.

The Drinks&Destinations Podcast is also available on:
ITunes: https://goo.gl/shfJuI
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The Drinks & Destinations Podcast Ep. 13: Drinks Events in 2017

March 2, 2017

Listen to the episode here.

This episode of The drinks and destinations podcast is about some major consumer and trade drinks events taking place across the globe which can help you plan a trip to these destinations all round the year. Hosts Rojita and Sameera share details of some fun events. So it’s time to update that list of places to visit in 2017. Hit play and listen to the episode. For queries and suggestions write to us at drinksanddestinations@gmail.com.
Remy Cointreau Starts 2nd Innings In India: Celebrates the 314th Anniversary of Mount Gay Rum

February 22, 2017

The three-century-old rum brand, Mount Gay Rum from Barbados celebrated its 314th anniversary recently. The rum born in 1703 in the Caribbean island Barbados was originally called “Kill-Devil” by the Barbadians who first distilled it. The abundance of molasses combined with the culinary ingenuity of early settlers and, of course, their legendary thirst for alcohol lead to this unique discovery in the production of spirits.

Prarrthona Pal Chowdhury, the newly appointed Country Manager – Indian Subcontinent at Rémy Cointreau held a tasting and celebratory event recently in Mumbai for a small group of rum aficionados. Commenting on the Indian market she said, “alcohol is no longer about drinking but rather about decadence and Remy Cointreau as a company appeals to this luxurious self-indulgence of people”.

This is also the first activity which has kick-started Remy Cointreau’s second innings in the Indian market after the French company decided to shut the India office in 2015 following a five-year long operation through a wholly-owned subsidiary. Although the sales and distribution channel was active through its partner Sula Vineyards for the last two years. However, with the appointment of Prarrthona Pal Chowdhury, the company now aims to revive its market plan for not just India but also a number of other south-Asian markets.

Besides Mount Gay Rum, Remy Cointreau will also be designing a new marketing plan and strategy for its other brands such as Remy Martin, Cointreau, St-Remy VSOP and XO Brandy and the most iconic cognac brand Loius XIII. It is worth noting that in 2013 Remy Cointreau India had announced a joint venture with Nashik Vintners, owner of Sula Vineyard, for launching India-specific brands. Ironically the first spirit brand which came out from this JV was launched later in 2015 and became Sula Vineyards first premium spirit brand called JANUS, a 100 % grape brandy.

It will be interesting to see if Remy Cointreau will revisit the plan to introduce more such India-specific brands in the near future.
The Drinks & Destinations Podcast Ep.12: Holiday Season Special Part 2 & Travels in 2017

February 10, 2017

Listen to the podcast here.

In this episode of The Drinks & Destinations Podcast host, Rojita chats with Mae (host of Maed in India podcast) about some of the destinations to visit in 2017. They also talk about New Year’s Eve parties and offer tips on how to survive house parties and avoid hangovers on the first day of the New Year. If you are planning to party hard this New Year’s Eve this should prepare you for a fun time ahead. Hit Play and listen to the episode here. You can also send your ideas and suggestions and queries on drinksanddestinations@gmail.com. Wish you all a very Happy New Year.
The Drinks & Destinations Podcast.Ep 11: Holiday Season Special with Aneesh & Nikhil

February 8, 2017

Listen to the episode here.

The party season has just begun. It’s also the time of the year when we look back at the trends that made headlines. In the first holiday season special episode of the drinks and destinations podcast hosts, Rojita and Sameera discuss some of the major Christmas and New Year parties to look forward to in Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. In the D & D Chat section the hosts interact with the dynamic duo Aneesh Bhasin of HipCask and Nikhil Merchant of Nonchalant Gourmand about the drinks and food trends of 2016. Also in this episode, we have our first in-house tasting of craft beer and Rye whiskey. So tune into the episode here. You can also write to us on drinksanddestinations@gmail.com .
#FreshStarts in Ooty

February 3, 2017

Holidaying in a place 7000 ft. above sea level has a charm of its own. The sun playing hide and seek, the cold windy weather and mist reminiscing a perfect set-up of a suspense thriller movie, a fireplace in a quaint corner of a heritage hotel and, friends spending the night around the fireplace chatting up while indulging in one too many drinks. But what’s not really worthy of this experience is waking up to a smoggy sloppy groggy morning.

Well; thanks to Morning Fresh , my recent trip to Ooty turned out to be a real pleasant one. I discovered the product recently and decided to pack it in my suitcase before this trip. While most of the days were spent exploring the scenic surroundings and famous spots in Ooty, Wellington, and Connoor, the evenings were reserved for revelry.

Too much food, too many drinks, and endless story sessions. I don’t like to mix my drinks; so I stuck with wine, while my friends kind of went overboard with the experimentation. They also had to challenge the effect of Morning Fresh and wanted to see if it really does the magic! Rum, wine, and beer adventures continued and at the end of one such long night, I asked one of my friends to give the sacred drink a try. Before going off to bed he had a shot of the Morning Fresh cola and the next morning he was a changed person. Well, not exactly. He was the same fun, jovial bratty self but he most certainly could feel the difference. Morning Fresh made him comfortable. It helped him kick-start the day on a fresh note and he is a fan of the drink now.

Why does Morning Fresh work so well? Because it is a natural alcohol detox drink which rapidly breaks down blood alcohol and its toxic metabolite content in the system and helps reduce hangover effect. Another plus side, it contains zero fat and carbohydrates.

While my trip to Ooty sadly has come to an end, it gave #FreshStarts to a New Year, I have decided to hold on to Morning Fresh a bit longer. Maybe stretching it further to a few more months or years!
Curbing That Hangover With Morning Fresh

January 25, 2017
Have you ever woken up with that feeling, wishing something’s were different? Like some evening plans that end up in binge drinking followed by unhealthy eating habits pushing you to that miserable self-assessment zone the next morning? Well, I am sure there’s a majority who has experienced that at least once in their lifetime. But thankfully there are many ways one can deal with hangovers.

Responsible drinking is one of the key things that every drinker must adhere to. I personally endorse that. Vodka, rum, gin, whisky, beer or wine, let’s not blame the alcohol. But if you are someone who likes to enjoy drinks every once in while, here is how you can avoid waking up with that ill feeling the morning after.
- Drink a lot of water- It’s true. Drinking water in between those alcoholic drinks can really reduce the effect of alcohol in your system.
- Don’t Mix your drinks- As tempting, it may be to take those vodka/tequila or Jager Shots while drinking something else, just stir clear of the friends who always encourage you to mix drinks.
- Don’t drink on an empty stomach- Do yourself a favour and never ever drink on an empty stomach. Following this could help you curb the hangover in a major way.
- Stay away from that smoke- You may not realize it but alcohol combined with smoking could be one of the major reasons why you end up in a miserable state the next morning.
- The Morning After- If you didn’t follow any of the above and yet somehow managed to get out of the bed in the morning then here is what you need to do- drink water or coconut water, eat ginger, have a hearty breakfast and go back to sleep. That’s the best way to deal with a hangover the next morning.
Thankfully, the times have changed and there are many products available now to help you have a good time without thinking much about the morning after. One such drink is Morning Fresh.

How does it work?

Morning Fresh is a natural alcohol detox drink available in the market, which helps you reduce the hangover. All you have to do is make Morning Fresh your last drink of the night and you wake up feeling fresh, healthy and ready to start your day.

It rapidly breaks down blood alcohol and its toxic metabolite content in the system and helps reduce hangover effect. And contains zero fat and carbohydrates.

Alcohol Dehydrogenase (ADH), a liver enzyme, is suppressed when lots of alcohol is consumed. Morning fresh containing key amino acids from silk protein that help to reactivate ADH. Reactivation of ADH means the faster elimination of alcohol from the blood stream. An increase in the metabolism also means the generation of lots of free radicals. These free radicals effectively get scavenged by antioxidant amino acids, and natural antioxidants present in Morning fresh resulting in detoxification of the system.

This antioxidant action along with liver damage repairing amino acids present in Morning fresh also helps in rejuvenation of liver. The net result is a minimization of hangover effect caused by toxic metabolites and free radicals.

Morning Fresh is a unique formulation created by Sericare; A Division of Healthline Pvt Ltd; an established company that is pioneers in the field of sericulture and using silk as a biomaterial.

The easily portable bottle makes it convenient enough to carry around. Priced at Rs 125 for a 60 ml bottle, Morning Fresh is available in three flavours such as strawberry, mint, and cola.

Do try it out and let me know.
The Drinks & Destinations Podcast Ep. 10: On The Wine Trail in India

January 16, 2017

Listen to the podcast here.

Only a few decades ago India had its first winery and of course, back then wine tourism was a concept unheard of and unknown to many. But a lot has changed since then. Companies like Sula Vineyards, Soma Vine Village, YORK Winery, Fratelli Vineyards, Grover Zampa Wines, Chandon, Soma Bangalore and many have contributed to this revolution. In this episode of The Drinks & Destinations Podcast, hosts Rojita & Sameera talk about the best wine tours to opt for, the wineries offering the best services etc. They also interact with the founder of Magic Cellars, a newly established company founded by Gargi Kothari who offers customised wine trails with lovely homestay options and tastings of fine wines and farm visits creating a wholesome experience. As the holiday season begins it’s the perfect time for you to pack your bags and go on a weekend wine trail. Discover all that and more by tuning into the episode. Do send us your suggestions and queries on drinksanddestinations@gmail.com.
Ten Wines To Buy In 2017

January 13, 2017

The ever-expanding Indian wine market with double-digit growth has given hope to many Indian and International wine companies to explore further opportunities. Despite heavy duties, taxes and other roadblocks, the potential consumer base is what keeps luring companies to introduce new wine brands in the market every year. Here’s a list of wines available in India that Drinks & Destinations recommends you to try in 2017.

The list comprises some wines, which were introduced in the market last year.

Insignia by Grover Zampa Vineyards

The second Indian wine to be available in a magnum bottle, Insignia is the new offering from Grover Zampa’s portfolio. It is only available at the company’s winery in Bangalore at the moment and priced at Rs 5000 Insignia 2014 is the most premium Indian wine in the market. It is a 100% Shiraz single vineyard wine from Nandi Hills made by the winemaker Karishma Grover. Only 300 bottles are available so you better hurry.

M/S Masters’ Selection by Fratelli Vineyards

Fratelli Vineyards’ portfolio is as big as the number of parties involved in the company itself. While they have one of the biggest wine ranges, some of their wines are a class apart. My personal favourite is the white wine made from Sangiovese grapes- Bianco. Last year the company surprised wine lovers with another exciting series. Collaboration between Piero Masi, the winemaker of Fratelli and the wine writer and consultant Steven Spurrier carrying their initials it’s called M/S series. I recently tasted the Chardonnay Sauvignon Blanc 2015 and Sangiovese, Cabernet Franc and Syrah 2015. The wines are straightforward and sincere with clean aromas and flavours on the palate, which is very elegant and balanced. Priced at Rs950 for a bottle in Maharashtra, this is another addition to the premium Indian wines segment.

Viognier Reserve Collection by Vallonne Vineyards

There’s one Indian wine company that has been consistently and very quietly making some good wines. Vallonne Vineyards’ rose is a popular one but recently I had a chance to taste its Viognier Reserve Collection. I have been a great fan of the Charossa Viognier but Vallonne’s 2014 vintage of this wine is a class apart. Beautiful aromas of passion fruit, peach and creamy buttery texture on the palate. It is a great value for money wine at Rs 850 per bottle.

H.C Andersen series From Robert Giraud- Bordeaux France

Inspired by the fairy tales series of writer H C Andersen, the Bordeaux-based wine company Robert Giraud had introduced a range of wines from the south of France. These wines are now available in India through the wine and spirits importing company Flipsydee. The range includes 6 varietals out of which 3 inspired labels such as “The Little Mermaid”, “The Wild Swans”, and “The Chimney Sweeper” are available in India. Danish artist Pia Kryger Lakha has designed the labels. The wines available in India include a blend of Colombard Chardonnay, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon. Priced at Rs 2390 we suggest you must add it to your personal collection, well at least the labels as its limited edition.

Apiliotis From Domaine Sigalas – Santorini, Greece

This was an accidental discovery at one of Sanjay Menon’s (the wine importer) wine tastings last year. He saved the best for the last. Sanjay asked me to wait before tasting it and called for a plate of pannacotta with vanilla sauce. He poured a bit of this delicious looking wine in the center and then asked me to try it. That was one memorable tasting. A dessert wine from one of Santorini, Greece’s well-known wine companies Domaine Sigalas. It’s made from 100% sundried Mandilaria grapes. It has also a great aging potential but I would suggest, just drink it. I was so impressed with the wine that I also visited the winery in Santorini later in 2016. If you haven’t tried it yet, you are certainly missing out on something. The wine is available in India through the wine importing company Sonarys and sold at around Rs 7000 for a 500ml bottle. I am told it is out of stock right now. But do keep an eye out for this one.

Heinrich Pinot Noir Dorflagen – Austria

Vishal Kadakia’s company The Wine Park is known for brands that carry a unique characteristic and story of its own. He is also known to be very selective about his wines. So when he decides to add a biodynamic pinot noir wine from a region like Austria in his portfolio it certainly has to be a good one. The wine with beautiful aromas and a fruity fresh mouth feel is quite elegant and a must try for a pinot noir lover. Heinrich is sold at Rs 3984 in Maharashtra.

Chateau Timberlay Bordeaux Superieur by Robert Giraud

A wine list is incomplete without a wine from Bordeaux. New in the market, Chateau Timberlay’s Bordeaux Superieur is a beautiful Bordeaux blend red (merlot and cabernet sauvignon) savoury and every bit classic Bordeaux wine. Owned by Robert Giraud the Chateau Timberlay wines are available in India through Flipsydee and Bordeaux Superieur is sold at Rs 2990 in Maharashtra. A must try we would say. Don’t forget to pair the wine with a nice lamb curry. Also the

Gerard Bertrand Cotes de Roses – France

Cotes de Roses wine from the house of Gerard Bertrand, Languedoc region France comes in a stunning rose-shaped bottle. A young student of the Ecole Boulle has designed this wine. Made from Grenache, Cinsault and Syrah grapes the wine is very fresh and fruity. Cote des Roses is the name of the coastal area near the typical village of Gruissan in Languedoc appellation. Imported by Brindco, this wine is available on retail at Rs 2496 in Maharashtra.

Casillero del Diablo -Chile

The Chilean wine company Concha y Toro, Casillero del Diablo lost its top spot as the world’s most admired wine label to Torres wines only recently. However, the wine earlier being imported by Global Duty Free company is now available through Aspri Spirits. The Casillero del Diablo Devil’s Collection- Rapel Valley –Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere is smooth and delicate with great ripeness and elegance. The wine is sold at Rs 2395 in Maharashtra.

Joseph Drouhin Gevrey Chambertin-Burgundy France

It’s a classic savoury pinot noir from Gevrey-Chambertin appellation from Cote de Nuits, Burgundy, France. Bright ruby colour with liquorice and woody notes the wine has a nice elegant silky structure on the palate. Goes very well with heavy north Indian food. This super-premium wine is being imported by Prestige Group and sold at Rs 11,500 in Mumbai.

It is difficult to make a list of just a few wines out of the large number of wines that I managed to taste in 2016-2017. However, there are some more which you should look for when you are thinking of buying a bottle of wine this year. Trocken Riesling from Weingut Heinz Pffaman (dry white wine, organic and vegan wine from Germany), my all time favourite Torres Vina Esmeralda (a blend of Moscatel & Gewurztraminer) from Spain, Hugel & Fils Gentil wines from Alsace, France. It is a blend of Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Muscat, and Sylvaner. And back at home, if you are traveling to Karnataka look for a bottle of KRSMA Estates Sangiovese wine.

Happy Shopping!!!
The Drinks & Destinations Podcast Ep. 09: Mexico – Land of Mystery, Magic & Mezcal

January 9, 2017

Listen to the podcast episode here.

Mexico is colourful, vibrant and so diverse that it has its own magic. True to its deep-rooted culture, history, and heritage, the country deserves to be on the must-visit list of any traveler. In this episode of the Drinks & Destinations Podcast, hosts Rojita & Sameera take you on a journey to the magical land of Mexico to experience and explore what it feels like to spend a few days listening to the Mariachi bands, enjoying the authentic Mexican cuisine, visiting Oaxaca and Tequila city to sip on some artisanal Mezcals and premium tequilas. To know more, listen to the episode and don’t forget to send us your ideas, suggestions, and queries on drinksanddestinations@gmail.com.

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The Only Feed You Need: Booze, Buzz & Beyond