INDIA – Diageo India, a leader in the alcoholic beverages industry, has announced two pioneering launches set to redefine luxury in the Indian spirits market: the Godawan Estuary Premium Water in partnership with Estuary Water and the India Rare Spirits Program, a bespoke cask initiative that celebrates India’s whisky heritage.
Godawan Estuary Premium Water
In collaboration with the Indian start-up Estuary Water, Diageo India has introduced Godawan Estuary Premium Water, crafted to complement premium drinking experiences without altering the integrity of beverages.
Developed in Scotland, this water is tailored for the epicurean consumer, offering a refined option for sophisticated occasions.
“It is our belief that even the simplest pleasures can be elevated through craftsmanship and care. This collaboration with Estuary Water reflects the artistry and passion behind everything we do,” Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer at Diageo India, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership.
Devasish Kamdar, Founder of Estuary Water, highlighted the water’s innovation, adding, “Godawan Estuary Premium Water is a new category for epicureans to enhance their moments. We look forward to it becoming a go-to for luxurious occasions.”
The product will be available through major e-commerce platforms and retail outlets in India by December 2024. To commemorate the launch, an exclusive three-day luxury craft experience will be hosted at Nahargarh Palace in Ranthambore, offering curated experiences in modern luxury.
India Rare Spirits: Bespoke whisky craftsmanship
Diageo India has also unveiled the India Rare Spirits Program, an exclusive initiative offering personalized ownership of rare, aged malts crafted to reflect individual tastes.
Nestled at the historic Ponda distillery in Goa—India’s first single malt distillery—the program highlights the synergy of tradition and innovation.
Vikram Damodaran remarked on the program’s significance, noting, “India Rare Spirits is a celebration of India’s unparalleled diversity—not just in cultures but also in whisky-making landscapes. From Goa’s coastal warmth to the Himalayas’ high-altitude chill, our distilleries create spirits shaped by their unique climates.”
The bespoke journey begins with consultations led by whisky experts to explore flavor preferences and special occasions.
Participants then sample from a curated library of 30–40 rare malts, matured for 5–10 years, featuring options such as Indian Peated Single Malts finished in Oloroso casks, creamy Ex-Bourbon Single Malts, and Dessert Wine Finished Malts with warm spices and candied orange notes.
Once a cask is selected—ranging from ex-bourbon and sherry to Indian sal wood finishes—the spirit is bottled with personalized labels and commissioned artwork.
These tailored bottles are designed for milestone celebrations, including weddings and corporate events.
“Luxury is all about personalization, where consumers seek deeper connections with the products they cherish. This program combines bespoke craftsmanship with a distinctly Indian perspective, redefining whisky ownership on a global stage,” Hina Nagarajan, Managing Director and CEO of Diageo India, emphasized the global appeal of this initiative.
