“I'’d love to offer Shakuni a glass of Laprohaig and see how he likes it!”

Name of CEO – Harish Moolchandani
Name of Company – Beam Global Spirits and Wine

Cappuccino with Harish @ the Tea Lounge, Intercontinental, Nehru Place

1. One thing you'd like to change about the Indian market…

The Regulations. I’d like to rationalize / amend the laws, to allow us to give the Indian consumers a variety of beverage experiences at an affordable price.

2. Who do you think sets drinking trends in India?

On a whole, it’s the Indian consumer. Within individual categories, like Single Malt or Wine or Beer, there may be different individuals / groups who shape trends.

3. What according to you is the most overrated drinking fad / drink in India at the moment?

Pass!

4. What's the next big thing for India?

We’re still evolving as a country and most beverage categories are still at a nascent stage. Both Single Malts and White spirits have shown good growth. I see growth in all categories and there is a scope for each and every genre of beverage. The early movers and risk takers in different categories will benefit if they stick on. I see Tequila as a category as about to take off and also believe that Liqueurs have a lot of potential.

5. Which is your favourite liquor brand ad campaign?

Two favourites, the Smirnoff 'Through the Bottle' campaign & the Carlsberg Lorry campaign – “Probably the best beer in the world”.

6. Which is your favourite Bar in India and why?

I like 1911 at the Imperial, Delhi. For the décor, the sense of history you’re surrounded with and the ambience.

7. Who's the one fictional character you’d like to have a drink with

I’d love to offer Shakuni a glass of Laprohaig and see how he likes it!

8. If you were alone on a desert island, which drink would you want with you?

Teacher’s and filtered coconut water. I drank it in Brazil and it was a great combination and perfect for the beach!