The two Indian companies collaborate to produce a new beer aged in American oak rum barrels

India’s pure cane juice aged rum, Camikara, produced by Piccadily Distilleries has partnered with Delhi-based Fort City Brewing to launch an innovative beer aged in rum barrels, marking a significant step forward in India’s craft beer scene.

The two brands announced the release of ‘Mridya’, a unique beer described as an Indian interpretation of the traditional Belgian Dubbel.

The new release follows their successful debut collaboration ‘Dhumri’, an imperial stout aged in former Indri Single Malt Whisky barrels.

Camikara and Fort City Brewing’s partnership began in 2023 with the launch of India’s inaugural barrel-aged beer programme, aimed at combining traditional brewing methods with modern innovation.

The base for Mridya is Fort City’s ‘Jaggernaut’, a brew that uses palm jaggery sourced from Andhra Pradesh, adding layers of depth and sweetness.

The ageing of Mridya in American oak barrels previously holding Camikara rum for 15 months has imparted complex notes of toasted oak, plum, raisins, and subtle caramel undertones, culminating in a medium to full-bodied beer with a notably sweet finish.

Visually, Mridya exhibits a striking crimson red appearance complemented by a transient off-white head. Its robust flavours are intensified by slight oxidation.

The introduction of Mridya underscores a growing interest in premium, barrel-aged beverages within India’s burgeoning craft beer market, catering to aficionados seeking innovative and nuanced drinking experiences.

Available exclusively at Fort City Brewery, Mridya is priced at INR595 (US$6.92) plus GST, positioning it as a premium offering in India’s expanding craft beer sector.