Embark on a journey through the rich and diverse world of Indian whiskies, as we unveil eight remarkable brands that are revolutionizing the country’s liquid gold.
India, known for its love affair with whisky, consumes a staggering 6 billion liters of this golden elixir every year, solidifying its position as the world’s largest consumer. While India has a long-standing tradition of whisky production, it has often remained overshadowed by renowned whisky destinations like Scotland, Japan, Ireland, and the United States. However, a new era has dawned, with homegrown Indian whisky brands stepping into the spotlight and reshaping the conversation.
From exquisite single malts that can proudly stand alongside the best in the world to innovative and affordable whiskies that challenge conventional perceptions, these Indian brands are capturing the imagination of whisky enthusiasts everywhere. Crafted in various regions across the country, from the plains surrounding Bengaluru in the south to the foothills of the Himalayas and the sandy shores of Goa, each brand harnesses unique climate and water sources to create a distinctive and captivating product. Prepare yourself for a tantalizing journey as we delve into the world of Indian whisky and introduce you to these remarkable gems. How many of them have you had the pleasure of trying?
- Amrut: Amrut, a renowned brand hailing from Bengaluru, offers a diverse range of whiskies, from blended varieties to port rum and sherry. However, it is their selection of single malts that has truly put India on the whisky map. Whether you choose the Peated Indian, Fusion, Greedy Angels Chairman’s Reserve: 12 YO, Kadhambam, or their newest creation, Little Greedy Angels 8 YO, you are guaranteed an exceptional experience. To embark on your Amrut journey, start with their iconic Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky. This Bengaluru-based brand captivates the senses with its smoky liquorice and bourbon notes, surprising the palate with hints of molasses and barley before culminating in a luscious and creamy toffee finish. Enjoy this award-winning single malt neat, on the rocks, or however you desire. Amrut whiskies are available in 21 states and all major cities across India, except Delhi and Chennai.
- GianChand: Introduced in 2022, GianChand Single Malt Whisky is a testament to the dedication and vision of DeVans Modern Breweries, distilled in the serene environs of Jammu. This whisky pays homage to its eponymous founder and undergoes a meticulous distillation process in unique long swan neck copper pot stills designed in-house. The geographical conditions lend a mellow and well-rounded body to the spirit. GianChand Single Malt Whisky delights the senses with its delicate and approachable nature, offering subtle hints of pineapple drop candy sweetness, mild peatiness, and dry oak from the wooden casks in which it is aged. Expect a harmonious blend of spicy and fruity flavors, making it the perfect companion for Indian grills and tandoor dishes. Currently available in Jammu & Kashmir, Delhi-NCR, and Ladakh.
- Godawan: Diageo India presents Godawan, a pale-yellow spirit that pays homage to the majestic Great Indian Bustard, also known as Godawan. Launched in Jaipur in 2022, this artisanal single malt draws inspiration from Rajasthan’s rich culture and heritage. Utilizing six-row barley that thrives in the arid climate of Rajasthan, Godawan matures its whisky in temperatures that reach a scorching 100°F, resulting in a deep and rich flavor profile. Indulge in the bold and full-bodied experience of the Rich and Rounded expression, offering a delightful combination of fruity and woody notes. Alternatively, savor the Fruit and Spice variant for a spicy touch and a crisp, dry finish. Enjoy Godawan single malt with ice and water, served from a terracotta jar for an earthy flavor. Available in major cities in Rajasthan, as well as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Gurugram, Goa, and Hyderabad.
- Indri Trini: Indri Trini, an internationally acclaimed whiskey, made its debut in 2021 in the picturesque village of Indri, located on the banks of the Yamuna river in Haryana. The Piccadilly distillery distills traditional Indian six-row barley, meticulously blending and maturing it in three different barrels—ex-bourbon, ex-French wine, and PX sherry casks. This triple-barreled aging process gives rise to the name “Trini.” The wine barrel infuses the whiskey with a peppery note, while the sherry cask imparts hints of blackcurrant, and the bourbon cask adds a touch of vanilla. Indri Trini whiskey delights the senses with its mellow aroma and reveals flavors of black tea, caramelized pineapples, and vinous raisins, culminating in a truly pleasurable experience. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water.
- Kamet: Inspired by the essence of India, Kamet takes its name from Mount Kamet, one of the country’s highest peaks. Situated near Kurukshetra, the distillery is surrounded by villages where the Indian parrot, the brand’s mascot, holds cultural significance. Kamet whisky undergoes distillation in copper pot stills and matures in a combination of ex-Bourbon American Oak, ex-wine French Oak, and ex-Sherry casks. This unique aging process yields a vinous fruitiness, accompanied by notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and raisins, intertwined with distinct oak and spice flavors. The whisky culminates in a warm and nutty finish that lingers on the palate. Kamet whiskies are currently available in Goa, Maharashtra, and Haryana, and can be savored neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water.
- Paul John Distilleries: The esteemed Paul John Distilleries boasts an extensive catalog of whiskies, each brimming with flavor profiles as rich as the landscapes and produce of Goa, their home. Embark on a delightful exploration with their offerings such as Nirvana, a captivating blend of bourbon and caramel custard notes. Alternatively, immerse yourself in their array of single malts, each aged in different casks to acquire a distinct character. Whether it’s the Classic, peated, Pedro, Oloroso, or the smooth and refined Kanya with its nuances of manuka honey, Paul John whiskies celebrate the essence of Goa—its sunrise, ocean, and captivating landscapes. Begin your journey with Brilliance Indian Single Malt, an exquisite creation that entices with notes of demerara sugar and rich cinnamon, complemented by hints of honey and spice. Smooth and crisp on the palate, it can be enjoyed neat or with a splash of water.
- Rampur Distillery: Nestled in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rampur Distillery traces its roots back to 1943 when it was established in the principality of Rampur State, now a part of Uttar Pradesh. Distilled in the original copper pots, this distillery benefits from the cool winters and hot summers that grace the region, imparting its whiskies with a unique richness. Explore their impressive collection, including Rampur Indian Single Malt, Double Cask, PX Sherry Finish, and Select Casks. The Rampur Indian Single Malt offers an enticing bouquet of tropical fruits, balanced by subtle spices and honeyed sweetness. The Double Cask expression showcases the harmonious interplay of American bourbon barrels and European oak sherry casks, resulting in a layered complexity. With its distinct dried fruit notes and velvety texture, the PX Sherry Finish is a treat for the senses. Finally, the Select Casks edition presents a symphony of dried apricots, figs, and dark chocolate, culminating in a long and satisfying finish. Savor Rampur whiskies neat or on the rocks, and let them transport you to the serene Himalayan foothills.
- Solan Number One: Originating from the oldest distillery in India, Mohan Meakin, Solan Number One is an embodiment of the distillery’s rich legacy. Established in 1855, this brand has been crafting whiskies for over a century and a half. Distilled in traditional copper pot stills, Solan Number One whisky undergoes a maturation process that imparts a deep and complex flavor profile. Indulge in the smooth and well-balanced Single Malt, layered with notes of orchard fruits, oak, and hints of spice. The richness and finesse of Solan Number One whiskies make them perfect for enjoying neat or with a splash of water. Available in select regions across India, this whisky carries a heritage that continues to captivate whisky aficionados.
These eight Indian whiskey brands showcase the country’s ability to produce top-quality whiskies that rival the best in the world. From the iconic Amrut to the newly launched GianChand, each brand offers a unique flavor profile and a glimpse into the rich whisky-making tradition of India. Whether you prefer smoky and peaty notes or fruity and floral flavors, there is an Indian whiskey for every palate.
