DesmondJi is a name that resonates with innovation and quality in the Indian spirits industry. Founded by Desmond Nazareth, an entrepreneur with a passion for crafting unique alcoholic beverages, DesmondJi (often abbreviated as DJ) is celebrated for introducing high-quality agave spirits, liqueurs, and other innovative alcoholic beverages to the Indian market. DesmondJi produces Agave spirts under Agave Industries India Pvt. Ltd.. In addition to being the first craft distillery in India, Agave Industries is also the first distillery in Asia that produces agave spirits.

The Genesis of DesmondJi
The story of DesmondJi begins with Desmond Nazareth, who, after spending years in the United States, returned to India with a vision of creating world-class spirits using locally sourced ingredients. Fascinated by the craft of distillation and inspired by the rich tradition of agave-based spirits in Mexico, Desmond decided to introduce something similar in India. He saw potential in the native agave plant found in parts of South India, particularly in the Deccan Plateau region.

Desmond Nazareth is a half pant entrepreneur who is the alumnus of IIT Madras and Temple University, Philadelphia. He is the first US engineer to create a software package and services solution for the Y2K bug 1986. He has been a Wipro business partner for 8 years from 1992 to 2000.

In 2000 he returned to India and can not find Tequila in Indian stores, he wonders why only one country produces Agave spirits. It started with a thought Desmond had in the year 2000. Why is Tequila® (and Mezcal) made only in Mexico, but almost all equally well known alcoholic beverages have multiple producers in multiple countries. This is true for Whisky, Brandy, Rum, Gin, Vodka, Beer and Wine. 

When Desmond saw photos of the blue Agave used in Mexico and had an ‘aha’ moment – He was sure he had seen similar Agave plants growing in India during his cross-country travels in his childhood.

Contrary to popular belief, the Agave plant is not a cactus It in fact belongs to the Asparagus family. Agave plants made their way to India through the Columbian Exchange. Other goods and commodities, now widespread in India, like tomatoes, potatoes and chilies, made their way here during the Columbian Exchange. The Indian Deccan Plateau lies on the same range of latitudes as the Agave growing  regions of Mexico and both the regions share similar terroir. The semi-arid climate coupled with the volcanic soils of the Deccan Plateau provide the perfect environment for Agave to thrive.

Desmond Nazareth spend several years researching Agave plants and the making of Agave spirts. For years he criss-crosses the semi-arid Deccan Plateau to find a sustainable source of blue green Agave in India. He initially finds limited quantity but experiments for years like alchemist. And in 2004, he created the perfect 100% Agave spirit. In 2005, his quest takes him to Mexico to research Agave cultivation and production.

The government is impressed with his wasteland project. But that's only half of the Margarita, he needs a quality orange liqueur. When France's Cointreau and Grand Marnier poohpooh his suggestion of making orange liqueur in India. He researches Indian Oranges and liqueurs, visits Nagpur to ensure supply of orange oils crushed from India's finest Nagpur oranges. And finally the combination was mouth-watering 'The DJ Margarita' a perfect cocktail.

In 2011, DesmondJi launched its first products: 51% Agave, a premium agave spirit that mirrors the production process of tequila but is distinctively Indian. The success of this spirit set the stage for the brand's future endeavors. DesmondJi's Agave spirits are made from the mature piñas of the Agave americana. 

Product Range
DesmondJi offers a diverse portfolio of spirits and liqueurs, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail:

51% Agave: This is the flagship product, made from agave Americana grown in India. It has a smooth, earthy flavor profile, with hints of citrus and spice, making it perfect for sipping or mixing in cocktails.

Agave Gold: A premium variant of the agave spirit, aged for a richer, more complex flavor. It has notes of caramel and oak, making it a favorite among connoisseurs.

Agave Liqueurs: DesmondJi also offers a range of agave-based liqueurs, infused with natural flavors like orange and blue curaçao. These are perfect for cocktails or as a standalone drink.

Margarita and Daiquiri Mixes: These ready-to-drink mixes are made using real fruit and are designed to complement the agave spirits, offering a convenient way to enjoy classic cocktails at home.

DesmondJi Indian Spirits: Beyond agave, the brand has also explored other traditional Indian ingredients, creating liqueurs that celebrate the country’s diverse flora, such as its unique orange liqueur made from Nagpur oranges.

Commitment to Quality
DesmondJi's brands of Agave spirits belong to the international family of Agave spirits that includes the Mexican Tequila® and Mezcal, and are produced from the Agave americana that has naturalized on India's Deccan Plateau.

The production process is carefully controlled, from the selection of agave plants to the final distillation. The company adheres to international standards, ensuring that each bottle of DesmondJi delivers a premium experience. DesmondJi's products are handcrafted in small batches, ensuring a level of care and consistency that is rare in mass-produced spirits.

Challenges and Successes
Bringing a new category of spirits to the Indian market was not without its challenges. The lack of awareness about agave spirits, coupled with India's complex regulatory environment for alcohol production and distribution, posed significant hurdles. However, DesmondJi’s dedication to educating consumers and its unwavering commitment to quality helped the brand carve out a niche.

Over the years, DesmondJi has garnered a loyal following, not just in India but internationally as well. The brand's products have been recognized for their excellence in various spirit competitions, further solidifying its reputation.

Impact on the Indian Spirits Industry
DesmondJi's success has had a ripple effect on the Indian spirits industry. It has inspired other entrepreneurs to explore indigenous ingredients and traditional methods, leading to a new wave of craft spirits in the country. DesmondJi has also played a role in elevating India’s profile on the global spirits stage, showcasing that the country can produce world-class spirits that stand toe-to-toe with international brands.