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Master of Mixology: Santanu Chanda Crowned World Class India Bartender of the Year

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Last Updated on June 25, 2024 by Daily News Staff

NEW DELHI, June 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Diageo Reserve’s World Class India Finale, held on June 15th and 16th in Gurugram, redefined the art of mixology, shaking up the scene with some serious talent. This prestigious competition, celebrating its 15th year, brought together the nation’s top bartenders for a two-day event unlike any other.

Santanu Chanda World Class winner
Santanu Chanda World Class India Winner

India’s top bartenders assembled under one roof for the electrifying World Class India Finale. The two-day event was a vibrant celebration of mixology, with innovative cocktails and healthy competition taking centre stage. The crème de la crème – the top 16 bartenders from across the country – battled it out for the coveted title of World Class India Bartender of the Year 2024.

Seasoned judges, including Karina Sanchez (Don Julio Global Brand Ambassador), Chef Manu Chandra (Restaurateur and Founder Partner at Manu Chandra Ventures), Minakshi Singh (Co-Founder Sidecar India), Akanksha Lamba (Co-Founder of The Postcard Hotel), Arijit Bose (Partner and Co-Founder at WineInProgress, BarSpiritForward, Jerry’s cocktails and more), Aashie Bhatnagar (Winner of World Class India finals 2023), Jacob Martin (World Class Global Bartender of the year 2023) Nandini Bhalla ( Editor in chief of The Word Magazine) , Smita Tripathi (Coveted Journalist and Editor), Sarah Proietti (Manager at Maybe Sammy) witnessed the mixologists showcase their artistry through unique concoctions. Each creation pushed the boundaries of flavour and presentation, leaving a lasting impression on the audience.

Ultimately, Santanu Chanda emerged victorious, captivating everyone with their in-depth knowledge of spirits and their imaginative blends. Santanu has won multiple prestigious mixology competitions around the world, At the helm of HOME Delhi #58Asia’s 50 Best Bar #8 30 Best Bar India.

Commenting on his victory, Santanu Chanda, Winner of World Class India 2024 said, “This title is not solely mine but a testament to the entire Indian bartending community that inspires me. The collective drive to improve and innovate elevates this industry to new heights. Cheers to the spirit of collaboration and a heartfelt thank you to Diageo Reserve’s World Class for creating a space that celebrates our community and fosters an ecosystem of growth and excellence.”

Bhanu Gupta, Vice President and Business Head – Luxury and Super Premium said, “Santanu’s achievement is a testament to his expertise and dedication, as well as the immense talent within the Indian bartending community. At World Class, we have created a global ecosystem that elevates drink experiences across the world, including in India. Our mission goes beyond promoting drinking better, we are dedicated to supporting and uplifting our trade community. Santanu’s victory not only showcases his individual talent but also reflects the growing excellence of the Indian bartending community and the transformative impact of advocacy-led initiatives like World Class.”

Jacob Martin, World Class Bartender of the Year 2023 said, “It’s fantastic to see the World Class legacy continue to inspire such talent in India. The creativity and passion on display this year were truly world-class! Congratulations to Santanu Chanda, and I can’t wait to see what innovative cocktails they bring to the global stage.”

This well-deserved win is a testament to Santanu Chanda’s exceptional talent and dedication. Stay tuned for more details on the competition and Santanu’s signature drink recipes, sure to tantalize your taste buds!

About World Class

World Class is on a mission to inspire people to drink better and create unforgettable experiences in the process. Whether at home or in a bar, WORLD CLASS encourages consumers to think and care about fine drinking in the same way they care about fine dining. 

World Class has supported, trained and inspired over 400,000 bartenders, across 60 countries, for over twelve years, while partnering them with the world’s finest spirits – the Diageo Reserve collection. World Class is also the authority on the drinks industry whom consumers look to for the information on the latest drinks, trends, cocktail recipes and industry insight.

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Sip. Savor. Celebrate!

About Diageo India

Diageo India is among India’s leading beverage alcohol (alcobev) companies with an outstanding portfolio of premium brands. A subsidiary of Diageo Plc., it is listed in India on both the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) as United Spirits Limited (USL).

Headquartered in Bengaluru, Diageo India has one of the largest manufacturing footprints in alcobev with 36 facilities across India. It manufactures, sells and distributes Johnnie Walker, Black Dog, Black & White, VAT 69, Antiquity, Signature, The Singleton, Royal Challenge, McDowell’s No1, Smirnoff, Ketel One, Tanqueray, Captain Morgan and Godawan, an artisanal single malt whisky from India, bringing together global expertise and local pride to deliver innovative, world-class products and experiences to consumers. With a strong focus on driving a positive impact on society, Diageo India has been working on collective action to improve livelihoods, championing Grain to Glass sustainability, responsible consumption and nurturing the alcobev ecosystem, to contribute to India’s growth agenda.

For more information about Diageo India, our people, our brands, and our performance, visit us at www.diageoindia.com. Visit Diageo’s global responsible drinking resource, http://www.DRINKiQ.com, for information, initiatives, and ways to share best practices.

Celebrating life, every day, everywhere.

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience.

https://stmdailynews.com/category/food-and-beverage

You can also find food and beverage-related videos on our YouTube channel, where we regularly post new content and share tips, recipes, and demonstrations. https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEhXBupt8tVynuUhpQZMxQt4lvPmOiAtQ&si=InDwc7YaB0KIwmxy

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Food and Beverage

Red Bull Reveals the New Red Bull® Spring Edition Cherry Sakura

Red Bull has launched the limited-time Spring Edition Cherry Sakura, a seasonal flavor available nationwide in both sugar and sugar-free options. This new variant features a bright profile of cherry, cherry blossom, and a hint of almond. With 80mg of caffeine per 8.4 fl oz can, it aims to capture spring’s vibrant energy.

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Red Bull is leaning into spring vibes in a big way.

In a Feb. 23, 2026 announcement out of Santa Monica, the brand revealed Red Bull Spring Edition Cherry Sakura—a limited-time flavor designed to match the season’s “let’s get outside” energy. The release is available nationwide now, and it’s coming in two options: with sugar and sugar-free.

Red Bull Spring Edition Cherry Sakura
Red Bull Spring Edition Cherry Sakura

What it tastes like

Red Bull describes the new Spring Edition as a layered flavor built for people who want something bright, floral, and a little unexpected.

Here’s the profile the company shared:

  • Cherry
  • Cherry blossom (sakura)
  • A touch of almond flavor

The result sounds like a spring-forward twist—sweet and fruit-led up front, with a floral note and a light, nutty finish.

What to look for on shelves

If you’re scanning the cooler, Red Bull says the Spring Edition Cherry Sakura will be easy to spot.

The cans are packaged in:

  • White-colored 8.4 fl oz and 12 fl oz individual cans
  • Cherry-red lettering accents

Like other seasonal drops, this one is expected to move quickly. Red Bull notes it will be sold at retailers nationwide “while supplies last.”

Same functional ingredients, new seasonal flavor

Red Bull also emphasized that Spring Edition Cherry Sakura contains the same functional ingredients as Red Bull Energy Drink, with the difference being the limited-time taste.

For caffeine context, the company says one 8.4 fl oz can contains 80mg of caffeine, which it compares to about the same amount as a home-brewed cup of coffee.

The bigger picture: Red Bull’s scale keeps growing

Seasonal flavors have become a reliable way for major beverage brands to keep things fresh, and Red Bull’s numbers show why these launches matter.

According to the company, Red Bull Energy Drink is available in 178 countries, and more than 13.9 billion cans were consumed in 2025 alone.

Bottom line

If spring flavors are your thing—or you’re just ready for something new in the energy drink lineup—Red Bull Spring Edition Cherry Sakura is officially in the wild. It’s nationwide, it’s limited, and it’s available with sugar or sugar-free, so you can pick your lane and stock up before it disappears.

For more information, visit RedBull.com.

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Source: Red Bull (PRNewswire press release, Feb 23, 2026, 07:07 ET)

Link to source: https://www.prnewswire.com/

Our Lifestyle section on STM Daily News is a hub of inspiration and practical information, offering a range of articles that touch on various aspects of daily life. From tips on family finances to guides for maintaining health and wellness, we strive to empower our readers with knowledge and resources to enhance their lifestyles. Whether you’re seeking outdoor activity ideas, fashion trends, or travel recommendations, our lifestyle section has got you covered. Visit us today at https://stmdailynews.com/category/lifestyle/ and embark on a journey of discovery and self-improvement.


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Food and Beverage

Teremana® Tequila Partners With Wingstop to Celebrate Fans of Flavor This Postseason

Teremana Tequila and Wingstop team up for Fans of Flavor: wing-and-margarita pairings, a pairing generator, and a sweepstakes through Feb. 8.

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Last Updated on February 7, 2026 by Daily News Staff

Teremana Tequila and Wingstop team up for Fans of Flavor: wing-and-margarita pairings, a pairing generator, and a sweepstakes through Feb. 8.

Teremana® The People’s Margarita and Wingstop Original Hot Wings

Teremana® Tequila Partners With Wingstop to Celebrate Fans of Flavor This Postseason

Teremana® Tequila is bringing the good energy to game day. In a new “Fans of Flavor” partnership announced Jan. 9, 2026, the premium tequila brand founded by Dwayne Johnson is teaming up with Wingstop—the global wing brand known for fresh, made-to-order chicken wings, bold flavors, and its iconic housemade ranch—to help fans turn watch parties into full-on flavor celebrations. The idea is simple: rival teams may split the room, but wings and margaritas are universal.
Teremana Tequila and Wingstop 1

Teremana Tequila and Wingstop

Wings + Margaritas: A Game Day Pairing Worth Building Around

From now through Feb. 8, fans can explore wing-and-cocktail combinations using the new Fans of Flavor pairing generator, built to match Wingstop’s signature flavors with Teremana margarita recipes. It’s a fun way to level up the table—where the food, drinks, and people become the main event. Here are a few standout pairings highlighted in the launch:
  • Wingstop Original Hot wings + Teremana® The People’s Margarita for a tropical twist on a classic heat-forward flavor
  • Wingstop Spicy Korean Q wings + Teremana® Spicy Margarita for heat that builds and keeps the party going
  • Wingstop Garlic Parmesan wings + Teremana® Strawberry Margarita for a fresh, fruity contrast against savory richness

Sweepstakes: Win the Ultimate Game Day Flavor Fest

The partnership also includes a nationwide sweepstakes offering fans a shot at a seriously upgraded watch party. One grand prize winner will receive the Ultimate Game Day Flavor Fest, featuring:
  • Wingstop gift cards
  • Game day drink funds
  • A 75″ TV
  • Support for a private bartender and party essentials
Plus, 60 additional winners will each receive Teremana drink cash prizes and a Wingstop gift card—an extra nod to the 60th anniversary of football’s biggest game. Official rules and prize values are available at TeremanaFansofFlavor.com.

“Mana” Meets Flavor: The Point of the Partnership

At its core, this collaboration is built around shared moments—bold taste, good company, and the kind of food-and-drink spread that makes people linger a little longer. Teremana’s brand philosophy centers on Mana—good energy that brings people together—and the pairing concept fits naturally into how fans already celebrate postseason football. “Wingstop has always delivered on bold flavor, and that spirit shows up naturally in how people enjoy Teremana on game day,” said Richard Black, CEO of Teremana® Tequila. “The best game day moments don’t happen by accident, they come from good energy, great flavor, and the people you share them with.”

Three Teremana Margarita Recipes to Try at Home

If you’re hosting—or just want to bring a little “Fans of Flavor” energy to your next game day meal—Teremana shared three margarita recipes designed to pair with Wingstop favorites.

Teremana® The People’s Margarita

Paired with Wingstop Original Hot Wings Ingredients
  • 2 oz Teremana Blanco
  • ¾ oz lime juice
  • ½ oz agave nectar
  • 1 oz pineapple juice (to taste)
Preparation
  • Combine all ingredients and shake with ice in a cocktail shaker.
  • Strain into a chili-rimmed rocks glass over fresh ice.
  • Garnish with a lime wheel and pineapple leaves.

Teremana® Spicy Margarita

Paired with Wingstop Spicy Korean Q Wings Ingredients
  • 2 oz Teremana Blanco or Reposado
  • ¾ oz lime juice
  • ½ oz agave nectar
  • 2 jalapeño slices (remove seeds)
Preparation
  • Muddle jalapeños in a shaker.
  • Add Teremana, lime juice, and agave.
  • Shake with ice.
  • Strain into a chili-rimmed rocks glass over fresh ice.
  • Garnish with jalapeño slices.

Teremana® Strawberry Margarita

Paired with Wingstop Garlic Parmesan wings Ingredients
  • 2 oz Teremana Blanco
  • 1 oz strawberry puree
  • ¾ oz lime juice
  • ½ oz agave nectar
Preparation
  • Combine all ingredients and shake with ice in a cocktail shaker.
  • Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
  • Garnish with a strawberry slice and lime wheel.

Where to Follow + Learn More

Fans can follow along for pairing inspiration and sweepstakes updates at @teremana and @wingstop. For more information—and to find a Teremana retailer near you—visit Teremana.com/FansofFlavor. Source: Teremana Tequila (PRNewswire, Jan. 9, 2026) Resource link: Teremana Fans of Flavor Sweepstakes + Pairing Generator Learn more and find a Teremana retailer near you

At our core, we at STM Daily News, strive to keep you informed and inspired with the freshest content on all things food and beverage. From mouthwatering recipes to intriguing articles, we’re here to satisfy your appetite for culinary knowledge.

Visit our Food & Drink section to get the latest on Foodie News and recipes, offering a delightful blend of culinary inspiration and gastronomic trends to elevate your dining experience. https://stmdailynews.com/food-and-drink/


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Beverages

Why Wheat Beers Still Win for Me After All These Years

After years of drinking beer from around the world, wheat beers remain my favorite. Here’s why flavor, balance, and craft still matter.

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two persons holding drinking glasses filled with beer. German wheat beers
Photo by Tembela Bohle on Pexels.com

I’ve been legally drinking beer long enough to remember when the default choice at most bars was something cold, fizzy, and forgettable. Like most people, when I turned 21, I drank what was available, what was cheap, and what everyone else was drinking.

Over time, my palate evolved—and my patience for bland, mass-produced beer disappeared.

These days, if I’m reaching for a beer, chances are it’s a wheat beer.

From “Anything Cold” to Actually Tasting Beer

Early on, I learned something important: not all beer is created equal. The big mainstream domestic brands—built for volume, shelf life, and advertising budgets—never really did it for me. They’re engineered to offend no one, which usually means they excite no one either.

Thin body. Muted flavor. A sameness that makes one brand blur into the next.

That doesn’t mean I dislike American beer. Quite the opposite.

Why Craft and Small Breweries Changed Everything

What I do appreciate are medium-sized breweries, small operations, and microbreweries that actually care about flavor, balance, and craftsmanship. Domestic brewers who treat beer like food—not just a commodity—have produced some outstanding work over the years.

The rise of craft beer proved that American brewers could compete with the best in the world when flavor came first.

Discovering Wheat Beers: Flavor Without Heaviness

My appreciation for wheat beers came naturally. Unlike many heavy ales or aggressively hopped styles, wheat beers offer complexity without exhaustion.

A great wheat beer delivers:

  • A soft, rounded mouthfeel
  • Notes of banana, clove, citrus, or spice
  • Natural carbonation that lifts the flavor
  • Balance that works whether you sip or socialize

German Hefeweizens, Weissbiers, and Weizenbocks set the standard. Breweries like Weihenstephaner, Paulaner, Franziskaner, and Schneider Weisse showed me just how expressive wheat beer can be without trying to overwhelm the drinker.

Tasting the World, Not Just the Shelf

Over the years, I’ve sampled beers from around the world—Germany, Belgium, the UK, Mexico, Japan, and beyond. Each region brings something different, but the best beers share a common thread: intention.

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Once you’ve tasted beers refined over centuries, it’s hard to get excited about products designed mainly for shelf stability and mass appeal.

Yes, American Wheat Beers Can Be Great Too

To be fair, American craft brewers have done some excellent work with wheat beers. Some stay true to traditional styles, while others experiment carefully with citrus or spice.

The good ones respect the base beer instead of burying it under gimmicks.

Why Wheat Beers Still Top My List

After years of drinking, tasting, and learning, wheat beers remain my go-to for one simple reason: they deliver flavor without fatigue.

They don’t need extreme bitterness. They don’t rely on shock value. They don’t pretend to be something they’re not.

Wheat beers are confident, approachable, and honest—and that’s something I appreciate more with every passing year.

I’ll always respect a well-made beer, no matter where it’s brewed. But if you ask me what I actually enjoy drinking, what I come back to again and again, it’s wheat beers.

Not shouted through a commercial.

Further Reading & Reference

Also Good to Know Information

American Craft Wheat Beers (Style-Respecting Examples)

Academic & Historical Wheat Beer Sources

Why Wheat Beer Yeast Matters

Shopping & Availability Resources (U.S.-Friendly)

For more stories exploring food, drink, and culture, visit the Food & Drink section at STM Daily News.

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