BEST OFFERS

Wednesday 26 June 2019

Fonterra Future Dairy launches Dreamery to fuel the ambition of new India


Left to Right:
  1. Mr. Ishmeet Singh, CEO, Fonterra Future Dairy
  2. Mr. Sunil Sethi, Chairman, Fonterra Future Dairy & MD, Sri Lanka & India Sub Continent Fonterra
  3. Mr. Kishore Biyani, Founder and CEO, Future Group
  4. Mr. Chris Greenough, Director – Strategy & Foresights, Fonterra Co-operative Group Limited
  5. Mr. Anuraag Agarwal, Head of Business Development, Strategy and Mergers & Acquisitions at Future Group


·         Unveils a product range specifically designed for the Indian palate
·         Set to bring innovative products to the market with its Dairy 2.0 strategy

Fonterra Future Dairy, a joint venture between global dairy nutrition company Fonterra and India’s FMCG powerhouse Future Consumer, is looking to disrupt the way consumers across India enjoy dairy. To deliver on this aspiration the joint venture today launched its consumer brand Dreamery, which will start to appear in stores across Western India this week.

The first products in the Dreamery range – Dahi, UHT Toned Milk, Chocolate and Strawberry Milkshakes were unveiled at today’s launch, bringing a more indulgent experience to staple dairy products.
Mr. Sunil Sethi, Chairman of Fonterra Future Dairy, and Managing Director of Fonterra Brands Sri Lanka and the Indian Subcontinent, explained that Dreamery draws on over a century of dairy expertise to delight a new type of Indian consumer who is young, urban and always on the go.

“By combining Fonterra’s global dairy innovation, manufacturing and nutrition expertise with Future Consumer’s leadership in retail and distribution, our goal is to delight Indian consumers with high quality, nutritious and great tasting dairy products, which is what we call Dairy 2.0.”

“We’re bringing 130 years of dairying expertise and our world-leading food safety and quality standards to this partnership to ensure that consumers can trust our dairy. Working with Future Consumer gives us an understanding of the complete consumer ecosystem and a right to win in the Indian marketplace. It’s a unique synergy that is set to create a new force in the Indian dairy industry.”

Mr. Kishore Biyani, Vice Chairman, Future Consumer, said that Dreamery will bring in new products that increase choice for consumers and help expand the value-added dairy market in India.

“Fonterra has deep expertise in product development and we are working in close partnership with them to bring in our understanding of Indian consumer tastes, preferences and habits. The product range will reflect the aspirations of consumers and we are hopeful that the brand will win their trust and confidence.”

As part of its drive to bring excitement to dairy, Dreamery will look to add to the initial range with more innovative products over the next six to twelve months.

 

Mr. Ishmeet Singh, CEO of Fonterra Future Dairy, explained that Dreamery is intent on revolutionising the category.

Our first product range is focused on taking staple products and using our world-class innovation to give them a contemporary and relevant twist.
“However, as we move forward, we’re going to continue to evolve our portfolio with products that will deliver superior quality, taste and nutrition across the Dreamery product range.”

The first products will be available on retail shelves in key cities including Mumbai, Pune, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Surat.

After the initial launch, the joint venture will focus on building a strong consumer base with strategic expansion throughout India before extending its product offering to include a full range of value-added consumer and foodservice dairy products to delight Indian consumers.



         UHT_1L_Tetra pack.jpg



Dreamery UHT toned milk



·         Enriched with Vitamin A & D
·         No added preservatives, artificial colours or flavours
Chocolate  MilkShake.jpg

Strawberry  MilkShake.jpg







Dreamery Chocolate Milkshake
Strawberry Milkshake











·         Enriched with Vitamin A & D
·         No added preservatives, artificial colours or flavours
   Dahi 400g.jpg



Dreamery Dahi



·         Made from cow’s milk with the highest quality standards
  All products have undergone 93 Quality checks for Aflatoxins, Antibiotics & Adulterants

Tuesday 25 June 2019

Goa Tourism observes International Yoga Day on 21st June 2019


On the occasion of International Yoga Day on 21st June  2019,  the Department  of Tourism,  Govt.  of Goa organized a special one  hour  yoga session where  around  80 staff participated in the  demonstration cum  practice session.  Mr. Pradeep Nagvekar from the  Goa Yoga Academy  conducted the session which  saw  wholehearted participation and  enthusiasm  from the staff in the  performance f  yoga at the Paryatan Bhavan  Hall at Patto.  Earlier in the day, Goa Tourism  officials  joined  in the  Yoga Day programme  organized by India Tourism at the  Department  of Art & Culture, Patto

Friday 21 June 2019

ETF Securities offers Australian investors first access to India growth story



• Australia’s first India equities ETF (ASX Code: NDIA) launched today
• ETF Securities partners one of India’s largest fund managers, Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management
• NDIA tracks the Nifty50 Index, which holds the 50-biggest companies listed on India’s National Stock Exchange
• Nifty50 up nearly 15% in last five years (annualised as at 31 May 2019 in AUD)
• India poised to overtake China as the world’s largest economy, with 7.5% growth this year

SYDNEY, June 21 – ETF Securities is offering investors a unique opportunity to tap into the world’s fastest growing major economy with the launch today of Australia’s first India equities Exchange Traded Fund.

Listed today on the Australian Securities Exchange with the code NDIA, the ETF is a partnership between ETF Securities and one of India’s largest asset managers, Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management (RNAM).

“India is the most dynamic economic growth story globally, but, until now, it has been difficult for investors to access,” said Kris Walesby, Head of ETF Securities Australia. “This product offers investors the
chance to gain exposure to a $US2.6 trillion economy that still has tremendous potential to grow as India reaps the benefits of structural reforms,” Mr Walesby said.

The World Bank has forecast India’s economy will grow by 7.5% in 2019/20, and by the same amount in fiscal 2020 – ahead of China’s projected growth of 6.2% and 6.1% respectively over the same period.

“India’s population of 1.3 billion, and, in particular, its emerging middle class, illustrates the scale of the opportunity,” said Mr Walesby. “Within six years it’s expected that around one fifth of the world’s working age population will be Indian, and that represents a huge fillip to the economy.”

“The increasing wages of the middle and lower classes, coupled with growing demand for consumer items such as mobile phones should underpin further strong growth going forward.”

Mr Walesby highlighted the recent Indian election result, which saw Narendra Modi’s Bharatiya Janata Party returned to power, as a positive for India’s economy.

“Political stability will allow the benefits of recent reforms to Goods and Services Tax and bankruptcy laws to continue filtering through in the form of stronger earnings performances by India’s major companies,”
he said.

Mr. Mukesh Agarwal, CEO of NSE Indices Limited, said “Nifty50 has become synonymous with equity markets and reflects the growth story of Indian capital markets. ETF on Nifty50 in Australia will help institutional and retail investors in Australia to efficiently participate in the world’s fastest growing  economy. The success of Nifty50 index is evident from the widespread acceptance of Nifty50 for launch of India access products globally.”

Another positive is the fact that 60% of India’s GDP is driven by domestic private consumption (compared to 40% in China), effectively insulating the economy against external shocks, Mr Walesby said.

NDIA tracks India’s Nifty50 Index, which holds the country’s fifty biggest companies listed on the National Stock Exchange (NSE). It accounts for 13 sectors representing about 66.8% of the free float market
capitalisation of the stocks listed on the NSE.

Among the companies included in the Nifty50 are HDFC Bank, Tata Consultancy Services, Housing development Finance Corp, Reliance Industries and Hindustan Unilever.

The Nifty50 is up nearly 19% over the past year and nearly 15% annualised return over 5 years (as at 31 May 2019 in AUD).

RNAM’s executive director and chief executive officer, Sundeep Sikka, said his company was delighted to be partnering ETF Securities in allowing Australian investors to participate in “the India growth story”.
“NDIA will provide Australian investors access to the Nifty50 Index which has been the torch bearer of Indian equities for the last 25 years and is considered to be ‘the stock of the nation’,” Mr Sikka said.

India has been difficult for offshore investors to access due to the country’s strict foreign investment rules. Although there are a few unlisted “active” funds that invest in India, ETF Securities’ NDIA is the first
vehicle for “passive investment” available to Australian investors wanting access to India.

ETF Securities co-head of sales, Kanish Chugh, who recently returned from India, believes significant improvements to infrastructure will play a major role in driving India’s economic growth.

“Many of the existing transport networks, while large in scale, have proved inadequate for the task of moving people and products around the country efficiently,” Mr Chugh said. “However, we are now
starting to see the benefits of major investment in the rail and road systems.”

“Light rail networks are now operating in most capital cities and this has cut travel times in some instances from two hours to 25 minutes,” according to Mr Chugh.

GTDC’s Sao Joao special cruise on board Santa Monica on 24th June 2019






Panjim,  June 21: Goa Tourism Development Corporation is all set to celebrate Sao Joao festival on board Santa Monica on Monday, 24th June 2019. The event will start at 10.30 a.m. and conclude at 3.00 p.m.
The event will include special cultural programmes along with entertainment and fun for the tourists and locals. Games and different competitions will also be conducted during the event and winners will be given attractive prizes.
GTDC organizes this event every year in a bid to celebrate Goa’s most unique monsoon festival “Sao Joao”.  Year after  year, this festival attracts tourists from far and wide.
During the event snacks and  buffet lunch will be provided to the guests.  The charges for participation includes Rs. 2500/- for couples, Rs. 1500/- per individual and Rs. 800/-for children between 5 years to 10 years. The charges are inclusive of food and entertainment programmes.
For bookings, contact: Mr Dilip-9767708798 Mr. Anil -9422057704  & Santa Monica Counter: 0832-2438754/2437496 or book online via www.goa-tourism.com. Bookings can be also done at all residencies of GTDC, and Head office at Paryatan Bhavan 3rd floor patto Panaji-Goa.

‘जागतिक संगीत दिना’निमित्त सावनी रविंद्रची आली नवी म्युझिकल सीरिज



जागतिक संगीत दिन हा संगीताशी निगडीत प्रत्येक व्यक्तिच्या आयुष्यात एखाद्या सणासारखा असतो. यंदाच्या संगीत दिनाचं औचित्य साधून सुमधूर गळ्याची गायिका सावनी रविंद्रने सोशल मीडियावरून नवी म्युझिकल सीरिज लाँच केली आहे.

जागतिक संगीत दिनाविषयी सावनी रविंद्र सांगते, “संगीत हा ज्यांचा श्वास आहे. आणि संपूर्ण आयुष्य ज्यांनी संगीताला वाहिले आहे, त्या आमच्यासारख्या संगीत क्षेत्रातल्या सर्वांसाठी खरं तर रोजच संगीत दिन असतो.”

ती आपल्या सीरिजविषयी माहिती देते, “आम्ही सकाळपासून रात्रीपर्यंत संगीतच जगतो. पण जे संगीत क्षेत्रात नाही आहेत, त्यांच्याही आयुष्यात संगीताला अनन्यसाधारण महत्व आहे. म्हणूनच त्यांचा संगीत दिन खास व्हावा ह्यासाठी मला असं वाटतं, गायिका म्हणून माझं हे कर्तव्य आहे, की मी त्यांना स्वरमयी भेट द्यावी. त्यामूळे जागतिक संगीत दिनानिमीत्ताने त्यांचा संपूर्ण आठवडाच संगीतमयी करावा, असं मला वाटलं. आणि मी ही नवी सीरिज सुरू केली. सध्या रोज एक व्हिडीयो मी सोशल मीडियावर अपलोड करते आहे.”

ह्या सीरिजमध्ये जुन्या नव्या मराठी-हिंदी गाण्यांचा संगम आहे. सावनी म्हणते, “अभंग, रोमँटिक, पावसावरचे गाणे, अशा वेगवेगळ्या मुड्सच्या गाण्यांचा समावेश ह्यात आहे. आजकाल लोकांना लाइव आणि रॉ ऐकायला आवडतं. त्यामूळेच ह्याचं वैशिष्ठ्य आहे, ह्या गाण्याच्या चित्रीकरणावेळी कुठेही ब्रेक किंवा रिटेक न घेता ही गाणी रेकॉर्ड करण्यात आली आहेत. ह्यासाठी ‘वन टेक जॅमिंग सेशन’ असा हॅशटॅगही मी वापरलाय. ही गाणी लोकांना आवडतायत. हे सोशल मीडियावरून सीरिजला मिळत असलेल्या रसिकांच्या रिस्पॉन्सवरून समजतंय. त्यामूळ खूप आनंद होतोय.

Friday 14 June 2019

Piaggio forays into the mid-body segment of 3-wheelers; launches the new Ape’ City+

cid:image005.jpg@01D4A35A.A41B6570


New Ape’ City+ is equipped with India’s 1st 230cc engine with 3 valve technology in the AF category & trusted 436 cc Engine in the Diesel category with unmatched mileage

Mumbai, 14th June, 2019: Piaggio Vehicles Pvt Ltd (PVPL), a 100 % subsidiary of the Italian Piaggio Group (European leader of the 2Wh sector) and India’s leading manufacturer of small commercial vehicles today launched the new Ape’ City+ and marked its  entry into the mid-body segment of 3 wheelers. The newly launched Ape’ City+ has India’s first 230 cc engine with 3 valve technology in the AF category. This product is an all-new ground up platform jointly developed by Piaggio’s product development teams from Italy and India.  Ape’ City+ will be available in 4 fuel variants- LPG, CNG, Petrol and Diesel.
The new Ape’ City+ combines international style with enhanced features for better performance. It caters to the urban and suburban needs by providing features that sets it apart from any other offering in the 3Wh mid-body segment. The Ape’ City+ includes various new improved features like best in class Mileage, Highest Power & torque In its class, increased headroom, best-in-class legroom, extra luggage space, higher ground clearance, stepless entry making it ideally suitable for multi-modal passenger transport in the evolving urban space. Ape’ City+ will be available in three distinctive colours basis the market requirements. Ape’ City+ customers will be given warranty of 36 month/ 1 lac kms. (whichever is earlier) for the CNG/LPG & Petrol variants along with the Super saver scheme which makes it the most attractive value creator in its space. Under the Super saver scheme customers get the benefit of 5 scheduled services free of cost with no charges for general maintenance, parts, and labour in the 1st year. The Ape’ City+ Diesel variant comes with a 42  months/ 1.2 lac kms super warranty (whichever is earlier).

Ape’ City+ promises unmatched mileage for greater earnings and better performance. The 3-valve technology engine in the AF category provides best-in-class power which helps in providing better pickup. The torque provided by the powerful engine helps in driving effortlessly on steep roads and flyovers. 

Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Diego Graffi, MD & CEO of Piaggio Vehicles Pvt. Ltd. said, “The last mile passenger transport dynamics in changing rapidly as cities are expanding into suburbs. There is a requirement of a versatile commercial people carrier which can cater to both in-city and outskirt applications. Keeping this in mind we have developed the new Ape’ City+ which is suitable for both city as well as outskirts and it will definitely address the gap which is there in the last mile connectivity. It has been designed in such a way that it will give our customers assured superior performance. It is a revolution in the 3-wheeler mid-body segment. It is equipped with India’s 1st 230cc 3-valve technology engine in alternate fuel variant and proven 436cc engine in the diesel variant both of which offer great power. With the 3-valve technology engine, our customers are assured to have greater earnability with low maintenance cost. Its features make Ape’ City+ a preferred choice in the mid-body segment of 3 wheelers.”
Ape’ City+ is power packed with features which is bound to make every ride a happy ride.


price EX-Showroom Mumbai
CNG- INR 192,241
LPG-INR 183,220
PETROL-INR 171,709

DIESEL-INR 184110

Goodyear Ranks highest in Customer Satisfaction by J.D. Power in the Small Car Segment

Image


June 13th, New Delhi : Goodyear is ranked highest in Customer Satisfaction in the Small Car segment in the J.D Power 2019 India Original Equipment Tire Customer Satisfaction Index (TCSI) StudySM. As per the study, Goodyear Tyres have a score of 856 points in the category based on a 1,000-point scale. In the Midsize Car segment and Utility Vehicle segment, Goodyear ranked second with 831 and 824 points respectively.

Commenting on this, Mr. Rajeev Anand, Chairman & Managing Director, Goodyear India said, “It is a proud moment for Goodyear to receive such high levels of recognition from the premier benchmarking company in the automotive industry.”

The J.D Power TCSI measures satisfaction among original equipment tyre owners during the first 12 to 36 months of ownership across four key factors (listed in order of priority): wear, ride, traction/handling, and appearance.

P.K Walia, Vice President - Consumer Business said, “As pioneers in tyre technology, we constantly challenge ourselves to innovate and develop better products to improve the overall driving experience of our consumers. Our sustained efforts in improving the quality of products is being reflected in the voice of the customers which has been highlighted in this study.”

The J.D. Power 2019 India Original Equipment Tyre Customer Satisfaction Index (TCSI) StudySM is based on 3,598 responses from new-vehicle owners who purchased their vehicle between March 2015 and August 2017. The study was fielded from March through August 2018.

About J.D. Power
J.D. Power is a global leader in consumer insights, advisory services and data and analytics. Established in 1968, J.D. Power has offices serving North America, South America, Asia Pacific and Europe.

About Goodyear
Goodyear is one of the world’s largest tyre companies. It employs approximately 64,000 people and manufactures its products in 47 facilities in 21 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, Ohio and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry.
Goodyear's presence in India is over 95 years old, with two plants, one each in Ballabgarh and Aurangabad. In the passenger car segment, Goodyear supplies tyres to many of the leading OEMs in India and has been a pioneer in introducing tubeless radial tyres in the market.  In the farm segment, Goodyear is the market leader and supplies to all major tractor companies.


Monday 10 June 2019

EICHER TRUCKS AND BUSES UNVEILS INDIA’S FIRST BS-VI CV RANGE EXPANDS LIGHT DUTY TRUCKS PORTFOLIO



Enters into a new range of Light-duty trucks with Eicher Pro 2000 series

Mumbai, June 10, 2019:  Eicher Trucks and Buses, part of  VE Commercial Vehicles Limited, today revealed India’s first BS-VI compliant all-new range of Eicher Pro 2000 series of Light-Duty Trucks. The entirely new range of ultra-modern trucks will expand the light-duty portfolio of Eicher, will address a wider range of applications and help enter new segments. The Pro 2000 series has been designed with segment-specific customer needs to deliver significantly higher profitability, loaded with Industry-first features for enhanced reliability, safety, comfort and efficiency.  

This all-new range of Eicher Pro 2000 series will come with two new engine platforms, built to deliver best-in-class fuel efficiency and a range of power options, compliant with BS-VI emission standards. This new range also has two new smart cabins developed for safe and comfortable driver operation in 1.8 m and 2.0 m configurations. These are equipped with new generation industry-first features such as touch-screen infotainment, Bluetooth and telematics connectivity. The first of its kind range will address the needs of the modern and smart businessman, not just in India but across the world.

•      India’s first BS-VI range- Eicher Pro 2000 series  
Best-in-class features 
• All new 1.8m/2.0 m next-gen tiltable cabin
• Industry- first 18 cm touchscreen infotainment system with android connectivity, Bluetooth, FM, USB port and card reader 
• Industry-first in industry All wheel disc brakes
• Best-in-class payload
• Two new Eicher BS VI engines – E474 and E494
• Dual Mode Mbooster

The new global series sets new benchmarks for driver safety in the CV industry. The new ergonomically designed cabin offers a better turning radius, reduced NVH levels and a comfortable driving environment. The Pro 2000 series will be equipped with Eicher Live, an advanced telematics solution for the business owners to manage trips, fuel and uptime of the range of vehicles. The Pro 2000 series offers best in class payload and comfort which makes this range ideal for the logistics and intra-city applications.

The two new variants- Eicher Pro 2049 and Eicher Pro 2095XP will be powered with industry best features. The Eicher Pro 2049 has been designed to cater to the last mile distribution with a 1.8m cabin. With a high legal payload of 2.7T, Dual mode M-Booster technology and larger loading space, the mini truck offers the lowest turnaround time to ensure faster delivery. The Eicher Pro 2095XP offers the highest payload of 7.2T in the category and comes with five cargo body options across 14.1, 17.6, 19, 20 and 21.5 feet. The vehicle is a smart choice for a fleet owner, with infotainment and Bluetooth connectivity, better cabin comfort, telematics and fuel coaching – offering a car-like cabin experience. 

Speaking at the occasion, Vinod Aggarwal, MD & CEO, VE Commercial Vehicles said, “It is a moment of immense pride for us to usher the automotive industry into its next evolution with BS-VI emission technology. We have always believed in investing rigorously in R&D to stay ahead in the industry by improving transportation efficiency and the Pro 2000 series is a testament to that mission. With a strong blend of technology and engineering innovations, we are yet again bringing in a new benchmark for the industry, offering our customers a radically differentiated experience in the CV space. We have a superior and long-standing expertise in manufacturing and exporting base engines for Euro VI requirements of the Volvo Group for the last 6 years. This extensive experience with Euro VI allows us the first mover advantage to deliver products engineered to cater to the new emission norms in the country. The select models that we unveiled today will be fuelled by our two new BS-VI engine platforms, equipped with all new state of the art cabin and industry first features”

On Eicher Pro 2000 series, he further added, We are leaders and innovators of the Indian LMD trucks market, and the new Eicher Pro 2000 series takes logistics and intra-city distribution to the next level, focusing on the driver and his comfort. We believe the winning combination of best in class fuel efficiency, better turnaround, more payload, superior cabin aggregates and a competitive price point will help reduce the operating costs for customers, resulting in higher profitability which makes the Eicher Pro 2000 series – Business ka Badshah.”

The Pro 2000 series is a consolidation of the evolving needs and the business requirements of our new age customers. Ranging from technology, comfort, safety and mileage, this series is leader across all these parameters, thus making it ‘Business Ka Badshah’ in the CV industry. The Eicher Pro 2000 series will also be available in BS-IV range across all markets.
Eicher Pro 2049   - Mini truck, better pick up
• 2.7T payload, industry best loading space of 10.4 feet 
• Best in class mileage with M-Booster technology, all wheel radial tubeless tyres 
• Fuel Coaching system and Steering mounted car-like controls
• 1.8m next gen tiltable cabin with improved rigidity and stiffness
• Turning Circle Diameter of 10m for easier manoeuvrability
• Highest seat travel (180mm) in the industry with lumbar supported seats.
• All new 18 cm size Infotainment system with Android one connectivity with touchscreen, micro SD card, USB, FM, and Bluetooth
Eicher Pro 2095XP – smart choice for the modern businessman 

• 7.2T payload with 5 cargo body options
• Highest fuel efficiency in the segment: Dual mode M-Booster technology and 6- Speed gearbox variant
• Fuel Coaching- A guiding tool for drivers for more fuel saving
• Lowest turnaround time 
• Eicher Live telematics for trip, fuel and uptime management.
• 190-litre high density polymer fuel tank for longest mile delivery without stoppage
• Superior cabin strength and rigidity
• Insulated multi-layer carpet for heat and noise reduction
• Comfortable gear shifting with hybrid Gear Shift Linkages 
• All new Infotainment system with touchscreen, micro SD card, USB, FM, and Bluetooth
• Steering mounted car-like controls
• Better utilities and storage space



About Eicher Trucks & Buses
Eicher Trucks and Buses has the lineage of three decades of operations in India. Adopting the most professional and holistic approach to modernize the Indian trucking industry, their brand philosophy, "Go Pro", promises to deliver best-in-class fuel efficiency, higher loading capacity, superior uptime and overall vehicle lifetime profitability. Eicher Trucks and Buses (ETB) is present in the LMD range with a strong presence in the 4.9T-16T truck segment and an ever increasing market share in 16T-49T heavy duty trucks segment. Eicher Pro Series buses also have a strong presence in the Light and Medium segment along with leadership in the school bus segment.

About VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV):
VE Commercial Vehicles Limited (VECV) is a joint venture between the Volvo Group and Eicher Motors Limited. In operation since July 2008, the company includes the complete range of Eicher branded trucks and buses, VE Powertrain, Eicher’s components businesses as well as the sales and distribution business of Volvo trucks within India. VECV’s vision is to be recognized as the industry leader driving modernization in commercial transportation in
India and the developing world.     

Saturday 8 June 2019

NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE’S 2019/2020 MEET THE WINEMAKER SERIES TO BE FEATURED ON NORWEGIAN JOY AND SISTER SHIPS




- James Beard Award Winner to Host Select Cruises Alongside Guest Chefs and Winemakers -

- Guest Hosts Include Rob Mondavi Jr., Aarón Sánchez, Salvatore Ferragamo and More -

MIAMI (June 6, 2019) – The 2019/2020 season of Norwegian Cruise Line’s popular Meet the Winemakerseries is available on the brand’s latest and most innovative ships and will feature accomplished experts including Gerard Bertrand of Languedoc Roussillon; Juan Munoz of Columbia Crest; Bob Bertheau of Chateau Ste. Michelle; and Master Sommelier and three-time James Beard Award-winner, Andrea Robinson.

The experience will be available on select cruises aboard Norwegian Joy, Norwegian’s latest ship in North America; her sister ships Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape and soon-to-debut Norwegian Encore; as well as on the newly renovated Norwegian Dawn.

The seasonal program provides enthusiasts with exclusive opportunities to engage with winemakers and other experts through a variety of enriching seminars and activities including open-forum discussions, meet-and-greets, intimate wine tastings and wine-paired dinners, interactive cooking demonstrations and educational sessions in The Cellars, A Michael Mondavi Family Wine Bar available on Norwegian Bliss, Joy, Escape and Dawn.

This year, Robinson, who in 1997 was the first female Master Sommelier to be recognized by the Sommelier Society of America, kicked off the Meet the Winemakercruises on Norwegian Escape, alongside notable winemaker Antonio Hidalgo of the globally recognized, family-owned Spanish Sherry house - Bodegas Hidalgo La Gitana. Robinson, also a known chef, television personality, author and recipient of three James Beard Awards in the categories of broadcast and restaurant/chef, will host an additional two cruises in the series. 
Andy Stuart, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line, said, “Our Meet the Winemakerseries showcases our commitment to providing guests with one-of-a-kind experiences by providing them with access to today’s most innovative beverage and culinary leaders. We are very proud of this season’s lineup and excited to share it with our guests.”

Each of the cruises feature vintages chosen by the expert and brought on board our ships for the exclusive events. Wine experiences range from $19.95 to $60 per person plus tax, and gratuity and may be reserved once on board.

The complete lineup of the 2019/20 Meet the Winemaker series includes:

  • June 8, 2019– Norwegian Joy: Bob Bertheau, head winemaker ofChateau Ste. Michelle
  • August 17, 2019– Norwegian Joy: Rob Mondavi Jr.,son of Isabel and Michael Mondavi and a fourth-generation Napa Valley winemaker
  • October 6, 2019Norwegian Bliss: Rob Mondavi Jr.,son of Isabel and Michael Mondavi and a fourth-generation Napa Valley winemaker
  • October 20, 2019 – Norwegian Escape: Salvatore Ferragamo, heir of famed Italian fashion house and owner of Il Borro Winery in Tuscany, Italy
  • November 3,2019 Norwegian Bliss: Aarón Sánchez, award-winning chef and owner of Johnny Sánchez restaurant, official chef ambassador for Terrazas de los Andes and one of the world’s leading contemporary Latin chefs
  • November 24, 2019Norwegian Joy: Juan Munoz Oca, head winemaker at Columbia Crest producing the winery’s portfolio of Reserve, H3, and Grand Estates wines
  • December 1, 2019– Norwegian Encore: Rob Mondavi Jr.,son of Isabel and Michael Mondavi and a fourth-generation Napa Valley winemaker
  • January 4, 2020 – Norwegian Escape: Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson, Chef to be announced 
  • January 26, 2020 – Norwegian Encore: Jacques LardiereFrench winemaker recognized for Maison Louis Jadot Wines 
  • February 2, 2020 – Norwegian Dawn: Master Sommelier Andrea Robinson and Celebrity Chef J.J. Johnson, executive chef at the Henry at Life Hotel in Manhattan 
  • February 16, 2020 – Norwegian Encore: Gerard Bertrand, renowned vintner of Languedoc-Roussillon

Svayam's 'Accessible Family Toilet Project' Reveals that 76% of People in Rural India, with Reduced Mobility, Struggle to Access Basic Sanitation Facilities

In four years, 1.44 crore individuals have been made aware of the significance of accessible sanitation across 14 st...