Bollywood actor and entrepreneur Dr. Vivek Anand Oberoi has made a strategic entry into the premium spirits industry by acquiring a 21% stake in Rutland Square Spirits Ltd, an award-winning Scottish company known for its innovative oolong white tea-infused gin. This high-profile investment marks the fusion of India’s rich tea culture with Scotland’s revered distilling traditions, paving the way for a new chapter in cross-cultural luxury and sustainable hospitality.
Brewing Heritage: India’s Tea Meets Scotland’s Spirits
Founded by Nishant Sharma, Rutland Square Spirits stands out in the crowded spirits market with its signature product — a gin infused with Assam’s oolong white tea. This unique ingredient hails from Dibrugarh, Assam, often referred to as the “Tea Capital of the World.” Alongside neighbouring Tinsukia and Sivasagar, the region accounts for around 50% of India’s total tea production.
Oberoi’s investment doesn’t just signal financial backing — it represents a convergence of craftsmanship. The infusion of Indian tea into Scottish spirits is not merely innovative, it’s symbolic: a meeting point of centuries-old traditions from two diverse cultures.
A Sustainable Vision: Net-Zero Luxury Hotel in Edinburgh
A key milestone in this partnership is the upcoming launch of a net-zero luxury hotel in Edinburgh, designed to be a model of sustainable and culturally immersive hospitality. The property, backed by Rutland Square and Vivek Oberoi, is envisioned as more than just a high-end retreat — it’s a statement of intent.
The hotel will reportedly be:
- Scotland’s first Ayurvedic wellness centre, blending Indian healing traditions with luxury hospitality.
- Europe’s first hydrogen-powered luxury accommodation, highlighting cutting-edge sustainability.
- A hub that blends Scottish heritage architecture with modern green technology.
Set against the backdrop of Scotland’s storied landscape, the project aims to redefine what eco-conscious luxury looks like in Europe.
A Testament to Indo-Scottish Synergy
Both Vivek Oberoi and Rutland Square’s leadership emphasized the symbolic and economic value of this Indo-Scottish venture.
“I am thrilled to join Rutland Square… This marks a new chapter in Scotland’s hospitality sector, promising a future of sustainability, heritage, and world-class experiences,” said Oberoi.
Founder Nishant Sharma and Director Veenu Sharma added:
“This partnership goes beyond an investment — we look forward to creating something special, a place that celebrates artisanal craftsmanship, cultural richness, and warm hospitality.”
Their shared vision positions the brand as a frontrunner in promoting global cross-cultural innovation, sustainability, and artisanal excellence.
Awards and Recognition: Rutland Square Spirits on the Global Stage
Rutland Square Spirits has rapidly earned a reputation for excellence. The brand’s oolong white tea-infused gin has been celebrated for both its flavor profile and design, winning accolades including:
- Gold at the Scottish Gin Awards
- Bronze at the IWSC (International Wine & Spirit Competition)
- Recognition at the World Gin Awards for Design
These honors reflect the company’s commitment to quality and creativity in a competitive market, positioning it as a rising star in the premium spirits category.
Strategic Timing: Aligning with India-UK Trade Momentum
This development aligns with broader economic trends. The UK and India are currently in advanced negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with whisky as one of the focal products. India is already the world’s largest market for whisky, with a 13.8% growth in exports.
Should the FTA reduce tariffs, UK brands like Rutland Square could gain deeper access to the Indian market, while premium Indian spirits might find a smoother entry into Europe. Oberoi’s investment comes at a time when bilateral food and beverage trade is emerging as a key driver of economic diplomacy.
Vivek Oberoi: Championing Purpose-Driven Entrepreneurship
This isn’t Oberoi’s first foray into visionary entrepreneurship. With ventures spanning edtech, fintech, agritech, real estate, and sustainable luxury, he continues to champion businesses that combine social impact with profitability.
His involvement in Rutland Square strengthens his global entrepreneurial credentials while reinforcing his commitment to eco-conscious and culturally rich ventures. The actor-entrepreneur’s growing portfolio reflects a conscious pivot toward sustainability, heritage, and transformative experiences.
Summing Up
Vivek Oberoi’s acquisition of a 21% stake in Rutland Square Spirits is more than a business deal — it’s a cultural collaboration, a sustainable initiative, and a blueprint for Indo-European partnerships. As the company prepares to unveil its net-zero luxury hotel and continues to innovate in the premium spirits space, this partnership promises to offer the world a taste of tradition, modernity, and mindful luxury — all brewed in the perfect cup of Indo-Scottish excellence.
