MANGO SAGA IN INDIA
Mangoes have a long and rich history in India, where they are often referred to as the "king of fruits." Mangoes have been cultivated in India for thousands of years and are believed to have originated in the Indian subcontinent. The fruit holds significant cultural and religious importance in Indian society. The country has a diverse range of mango varieties, each with its own unique taste, shape, and colour. Some of the popular Indian mango varieties include Alphonso, Dasheri, Langra, Kesar, and Totapuri.
Mangoes were not only enjoyed as a fresh fruit but were also processed into various forms, such as pickles, chutneys, and desserts. The art of preserving mangoes in the form of mango pulp, dried slices, and mango powder (amchur) developed in ancient India.
Beyond its culinary appeal, the mango's aesthetic influence cannot be overlooked. The influence of mangoes can also be seen in Indian art and literature. Mango motifs are often depicted in ancient Indian paintings, sculptures, and architecture. The paisley design, synonymous with Indian textiles, traces its roots back to the mango motif.
During the Mughal era in the 16th and 17th centuries, mango cultivation reached its peak in India. They established extensive gardens called "Baghs" where different varieties of mangoes were grown. The Mughals also introduced grafting techniques to improve the quality and taste of mangoes.
In more recent history, mangoes played a role in diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan. The concept of "mango diplomacy" emerged in the 1980s when the two countries exchanged mangoes as a gesture of goodwill and friendship. Every year, during the mango season, Pakistan sends a shipment of its famous mango variety called "Chaunsa" to the Indian Prime Minister, and in return, India sends its mangoes, including varieties like "Alphonso" and "Dussehri," to the Pakistani Prime Minister. This exchange aims to promote friendly relations and cultural ties between the two nations.
In the 1980s, a mango ban was imposed due to concerns over the prevalence of the fruit fly—a potential threat to American crops. For nearly two decades, Americans were deprived of the lusciousness of Indian mangoes. Eventually, through stringent regulations and scientific advancements, the ban was lifted, and the mango madness was rekindled, in 2007.
MANGO MAIBOCK - THE FRUITFUL BREW
The history of mango in India is a tale filled with diplomacy, bans, and artistic inspiration. From being a gift of friendship to a symbol of cultural richness, the mango has become an integral part of Indian heritage. Its journey has also found its way into the world of beer, with Arbor Brewing Company’s Mango Maibock, blending the flavours of mangoes with the traditional Maibock style.
Maibock is a traditional German beer style that is typically brewed in the spring and consumed during the month of May, hence the name "Maibock" (May Bock). Bock beers are strong lagers that originated in the German region of Bavaria. It is known for its rich malt character, deep golden to light amber colour, and a moderate to high alcohol content. It falls under the category of a "helles bock" or "pale bock," which means it is lighter in colour compared to other bock styles. The aroma of the beer can feature a combination of bready, toasty, and caramel malt notes, with a hint of floral or spicy hops. It has a clean, malty flavour with a slightly sweet taste balanced by a moderate hop bitterness.
In India, the month of May brings the scorching heat of summer and the excitement of the highly anticipated "King of Fruits." At Arbor India, we have elevated the Maibock experience by infusing it with the delightful flavour of mango. Introducing the Mango Maibock, a unique lager that combines bready and sweet notes, culminating in a satisfying dry finish complemented by a lingering touch of mango sweetness. Crafted with 150 kg of Kesar and Badami mangoes, this Arbor India original celebrates the steamy tail-end of summer and the much-anticipated monsoons.
So, whether you're savouring the history of mango in India, marvelling at mango diplomacy, or raising a glass of Mango Maibock, let the mango-infused goodness transport you to a world of delectable flavours and vibrant stories.
Cheers to the Mango Maibock, the true essence of summer!