Indulging in the smooth, rich flavors of a high-quality whisky is often associated with a hefty price tag. However, whisky enthusiasts can now rejoice as we unveil a selection of premium bottles from elite brands, all available for under INR 8000. Gone are the days when budget constraints hindered the exploration of exquisite whiskies. In India, a country with a long-standing passion for smoke and oak, a wide range of affordable options awaits those seeking a flavorful and affordable whisky experience. From homegrown single malts to renowned American blends, the aisles of grocery stores are teeming with diverse flavor notes, aging periods, and barrel types to suit every palate and occasion.
In this article, we will delve into the world of whiskies, uncovering the best malts under INR 8000 that deserve a place in your whisky collection. So, sit back, relax, and embark on a journey through the affordable and delectable whiskies offered by some of the most esteemed brands in the business.
- Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old Whisky
Glenfiddich, renowned for its world-class single malt whiskies, stands as a classic choice for the daily dram. Within the affordable range of INR 8000, their 12-year-old expression shines brightly. Aged in oak, Spanish sherry, and American bourbon barrels, this whisky boasts a complex amber hue that entices the senses. On the nose, fresh pear and wood notes create an enticing aroma. With each sip, one is greeted by a symphony of flavors, including peach, wood, and butterscotch. The finish is luxurious and elegant, leaving a lasting impression of the whisky’s exceptional quality.
Price: Approximately INR 7000
- Ardbeg 10-Year-Old Whisky
With a history dating back to 1815, Ardbeg has established an impeccable reputation in the whisky industry. Their 10-year-old expression further solidifies their standing, having earned the prestigious title of World Whisky of the Year in 2008. This amber nectar tantalizes the senses with a captivating aroma, offering hints of black pepper, menthol, dark chocolate, lemon, pear, and baked pineapple. Each sip presents a delightful combination of bananas, smooth buttermilk, toasted marshmallows, currants, and cappuccino. The perfectly balanced spice and creaminess create an exquisite whisky that is truly a pleasure to savor.
Price: Approximately INR 6800
- Amrut Intermediate Sherry Whisky
Leading the single malt revolution in India, Amrut has produced some of the world’s most coveted whisky bottles. Among their offerings, the Intermediate Sherry expression stands out as a favorite among connoisseurs. This unique whisky undergoes a maturation process involving bourbon casks, sherry casks, and a return to bourbon casks, akin to a “sherry sandwich.” The result is a fruity and juicy whisky with delightful notes of moist cake, dried fruit, juicy sultanas, chocolate, marzipan, and spice. Each sip reveals the presence of orange, culminating in a long and luxurious finish. This particular whisky caters to those with a penchant for sweeter sips.
Price: Approximately INR 6000
- Paul John Bold Whisky
Hailing from the sunny sands of Goa, Paul John is a homegrown brand known for producing quality malts that have garnered attention from seasoned drinkers and whisky enthusiasts alike. Within the INR 8000 range, their Bold expression showcases the brand’s commitment to excellence. This peated whisky pours like liquid gold and entices with enticing notes of smoke, Manuka honey, and red liquorice on the nose. Each sip reveals a silk-like texture accompanied by spice and molasses flavors. The finish is light, offering a lingering touch of copper and mocha. Paul John Bold is an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and memorable whisky experience.
Price: Approximately INR 6000
- Jameson Black Barrel Whisky
Jameson, a wildly popular brand in the world of malts, is renowned for its exceptional Irish blended whiskies. Within the INR 8000 price range, the Jameson Black Barrel expression embodies the brand’s dedication to craftsmanship. This amber-colored whisky blends small-batch grain and single-pot Irish whisky, which is then aged in double-charred barrels for up to 16 years. The result is a sweet and spicy whisky with enticing notes of fruit, butterscotch, toffee, and fudge on the nose. Each sip reveals a full and creamy texture, accompanied by hints of spice, nuts, and vanilla. The rich finish adds a touch of wood, completing the whisky’s depth of flavor.
Price: Approximately INR 5700
- Indri-Trini Whisky
Translated as “the senses” in Sanskrit, Indri-Trini is an award-winning whisky that has captured the attention of whisky aficionados across the country. Crafted near the foothills of the Himalayas by one of India’s largest producers of malt spirits, Piccadilly, this whisky offers a gentle and flavorful sip. The production process involves the manual harvesting of six-row barley, which is then malted, fermented, and aged in three types of casks: ex-French, ex-bourbon, and sherry. The payoff is a whisky that pours like a sunset, boasting hints of caramelized pineapple, oak, vanilla, raisin, honey, and sweet cherry. Subtle notes of nuts and wood further enhance the experience, culminating in a balanced and elegant finish.
Price: Approximately INR 5000
- Akashi White Oak Single Malt Whisky
Elegance and sophistication define Japanese single malts, and Akashi’s flagship single malt export is no exception. Within the INR 8000 price range, this whisky showcases the brand’s commitment to excellence. Aged in various barrels, including oloroso, shochu, bourbon, American oak, cream, and Pedro Ximenez, Akashi’s whisky carries no age statement but offers a remarkable flavor profile. With each sip, notes of nutmeg, sweet cereal, black pepper, and walnut dance on the palate. The delightful aroma of buttered hot cross buns, lemongrass, chocolate peanuts, and spice lingers enticingly. The medium finish leaves hints of oats and dried apricot, providing a mellow and breezy whisky experience.
Price: Approximately INR 5000
- Suntory Toki Whisky
Introduced to the world by Japan’s oldest distillery, Suntory Toki features a masterful blend of whiskies sourced from three renowned distilleries: Yamazaki, Hakushu, and Chita. This carefully crafted blend, available within the INR 8000 price range, offers a harmonious and mellow drinking experience. On the nose, soft orchard fruits, peppermint, thyme, and honey create an inviting aroma. Each sip reveals the flavors of green apple, melon, pink grapefruit, toasted almonds, vanilla, and oak. The finish carries a touch of ginger and white pepper, adding complexity to this gentle and floral whisky. Suntory Toki is particularly well-suited for creating highballs, and garnishing with citrus enhances its delightful flavors.
Price: Approximately INR 5000
- Monkey Shoulder Whisky
No list of affordable whiskies would be complete without the inclusion of Monkey Shoulder. This widely popular Speyside malt can be found in bars and restaurants across the globe, attesting to its exceptional quality. Within the INR 8000 range, Monkey Shoulder offers a bright, versatile whisky that delights when savored neat. Each sip reveals the flavors of orange, honey, and vanilla, accompanied by distinct hints of oak spice, nutmeg, and cloves. The bold and spicy finish adds a touch of excitement to the whisky, making it a preferred choice for those seeking a kick in their whisky ritual.
Price: Approximately INR 5000
Final Thoughts:
Whisky enthusiasts need not break the bank to enjoy premium and flavorful drams. The world of whisky offers a wide range of options from elite brands, all available for under INR 8000. From Glenfiddich’s classic 12-Year-Old expression to Ardbeg’s award-winning 10-Year-Old whisky, each bottle promises a memorable and satisfying drinking experience. Amrut Intermediate Sherry, Paul John Bold, Jameson Black Barrel, Indri-Trini, Akashi White Oak, Suntory Toki, and Monkey Shoulder whiskies round out the selection, showcasing the diverse flavors and craftsmanship offered by these esteemed brands. Whether you prefer the fruity notes of Amrut or the elegance of Japanese single malts, there is a whisky in this price range to suit every palate. So, raise a glass and toast to the world of affordable and exceptional whiskies.
