They say a cocktail is only as good as its ingredients. Among them, vermouth plays a defining role, adding depth, balance, and complexity to classic drinks. Yet, for years, India’s vermouth market has been dominated by expensive, imported brands with inconsistent availability. Recognising this gap, Adarsh Gadvi set out to create a premium, locally crafted vermouth – one made for Indian consumers that celebrates Indian ingredients. After two years of meticulous development and over 50 recipe trials, Davana Vermouth Indica was introduced in October 2024.
The brand’s name reflects its origins and identity. “Davana” comes from the Hindi word for ‘Indian Wormwood’, a key ingredient in vermouth, while “Indica” pays homage to its Indian roots. Crafted using high-quality wine sourced from Nashik, India’s wine capital, it undergoes a meticulous production process – from distillation to maceration, blending, and finally the required resting – ensuring a complex yet well-balanced flavour profile. The brand currently offers two distinct variants: Davana Rosso and Davana Bianco, both available in Goa. As India’s craft spirits movement gains momentum, Davana Vermouth Indica is redefining the category, setting new benchmarks that embrace local ingredients and proving that India can craft world-class aperitifs.