Top Picks: Popular Whiskey Brands in India To Try

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India is known for its lively culture, tasty food, and busy cities. It also has a growing liquor industry, including a whiskey industry. India’s love affair with whisky is undeniable, spanning economically priced bottles to luxurious scotch varieties. Although Scotland and Ireland typically steal the spotlight when it comes to whisky, India has made significant strides in crafting its own distinct and flavorful varieties.

What sets Indian whiskies apart is the country’s tropical climate, a sharp contrast to the cool, damp conditions of traditional whisky-producing regions. The weather in India makes whiskey age faster, creating unique flavours and aromas that are distinctively Indian. From fruity and spicy notes to sweet, rich undertones, Indian whiskies offer a diverse range of flavours that cater to every palate.

So, whether you are savouring the classic taste of Amrut or exploring the innovative blends of Rampur, there is a world of Indian whisky waiting to be discovered. When it comes to the best whiskey brands in India, several standout options deserve recognition. So, let’s explore the most popular whiskey brands in India.

12 Popular Whiskey Brands in India To Try

1. Amrut Fusion Single Malt

Amrut Fusion Single Malt is a remarkable example of Indian whiskey quality. Made by Amrut Distilleries, it blends Indian and Scottish barley for a unique flavour. The whiskey has hints of fruit, honey, and spices. It is aged in oak barrels, and sherry casks for depth. Amrut Fusion is known for its smooth taste worldwide. It shows Amrut Distilleries’ innovative skills well and highlights Indian whiskey’s potential. It is a must-try for any whiskey lover.

2. Paul John Brilliance

Paul John Brilliance is an Indian single-malt whisky from Goa. It has unique flavours and high quality. Made with Indian barley, aged in oak barrels, and influenced by Goa’s tropical climate. This whisky reflects the coastal beauty of its origin. Paul John Brilliance showcases John Distilleries’ skill and commitment, representing India’s rising popularity in single malts. Whiskey fans must try this great drink.

3. Rampur Select Single Malt

Rampur Select Single Malt is a delightful Indian whiskey that showcases the distillery’s rich flavours and craftsmanship. Produced in the foothills of the Himalayas by Radico Khaitan, Rampur whiskies have gained recognition for their smooth and mellow character. It is aged in oak barrels, adding complex flavours like tropical fruit and spices. The precision in making Rampur Select is clear in every sip. This Indian single malt is popular and worth a try for whiskey lovers seeking unique flavours.

4. McDowell’s No. 1

McDowell’s No. 1 has become a favourite among whiskey enthusiasts due to its affordability and high-quality standards. This blended whiskey is known for its notes of vanilla and caramel, offering a delightful sipping experience. It is versatile and can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or as a base for cocktails. The whiskey’s velvety mouthfeel and lingering finish make it a go-to option for many.

With its wide availability and reputation as a reliable brand, McDowell’s No. 1 has become a staple in the Indian whiskey market. Its popularity stems from its powerful marketing campaigns around occasions like Holi, Diwali, New Year, etc., along with the launch of special festive packs. It targets the youth by sponsoring various music concerts in the country that are widely attended by talented musicians.

5. Royal Stag Barrel Select

Royal Stag Barrel Select is a popular Indian whiskey known for its smooth and well-balanced flavour profile. It’s affordable, high-quality, and it’s loved by many. The whiskey is aged in oak barrels, giving it a smoky flavour and complexity. Inspired by the craftsmanship and tradition of Scotch whiskies, it offers a smooth and creamy texture with notes of vanilla, honey, and oak spices.

The brand’s logo – “It’s your life, make it large” seems to resonate with the masses as Royal Stag is the most popular of Pernod Ricard’s Indian whiskies and also the group’s biggest spirit by volume standards.

6. Blenders Pride Reserve Collection

The Blenders Pride Reserve Collection is a top Indian whiskey with high quality and unique taste. It combines Indian grain spirits and aged malts for a smooth flavour.

Blenders Pride Reserve Collection is aged in American oak barrels, which adds depth and complexity to the whiskey. The whiskey contains floral, fruity, and vanilla flavours. It has won the Double Gold award for high quality. This shows that Indian whiskey brands are gaining recognition and value.

Reports suggest that this Pernod Ricard-owned Indian whisky brand owns approximately 50% of the premium blended whisky sector in India.

7. Imperial Blue Superior Grain Whisky

Imperial Blue Superior Grain Whisky is an admired Indian whiskey celebrated for its rich and delightful flavour profile. It is a blended whiskey with spice and sweetness loved by whiskey fans. Inspired by the traditions of whiskey-making in the United States, it offers a taste similar to classic American whiskeys. It has gained recognition for its high quality and affordability, making it a go-to choice for many whiskey lovers.

The popularity of this whiskey is thanks to its strong and well-executed advertising. A fine blend of scotch malts and Indian grain spirits, this brand launched in 1977 has shown consistent growth and ranks 4th among the best-selling Indian whiskies. What’s more, it has also secured the number 10 spot in the list of the top 100 spirits brands by volume.

8. Officer’s Choice

Officer’s Choice is a popular Indian whiskey brand known for its unique blend of malt, barley, and spices, which impart a balanced flavour. Inspired by the rich traditions of whiskey-making, it maintains its focus on quality and craftsmanship.

Officer’s Choice has become a popular choice in the Indian whiskey market due to its reasonable price and top-notch quality. It showcases the expanding variety and refinement of Indian whiskey brands.

With record sales of more than 20 million cases annually, the Officer’s Choice brand has consistently delivered double-digit growth for three years in a row. The brand credits its super-premium expression, Officer’s Choice Black, and its inspiring viral campaign for its astounding growth. Owned by Allied Blenders and Distillers (ABD), this whiskey is a fine blend of malt spirits and Indian neutral spirits.

9. Solan Number One

Solan Number One, crafted at the Kasauli Distillery, is a standout among Indian whiskies, acclaimed for its exceptional quality and unique flavour profile. It is aged in oak casks, imparting a rich and complex character to the whiskey. The whiskey offers a smooth and mellow taste, with hints of oak spices and dried fruits. Fans love it because it tastes like Scotch.

10. Sula Vineyards Eclipse

Indian whisky makers are curious about new ideas. Sula Vineyards Eclipse shows this curiosity and willingness to try new things. It has a unique taste, unlike traditional wine or whisky. Some thought it mixes grape wine and whisky, but it actually blends grape with whisky.

Sula Vineyards Eclipse is just one example. It shows how Indian whisky makers are exploring new flavours, giving consumers more exciting drinks to try.

Eclipse has a light and smooth fruity taste. It is not really for people who love strong, smoky flavours, although there is a bit of that, too. It is sweeter, with a hint of vanilla, and smells like citrus. You might not notice the grape taste unless you try it without knowing what is in it. Finding this whisky can be tricky, but it is a fun adventure if you are up for it.

11. Bagpiper

Bagpiper is a famous whiskey brand in India with a long legacy. Internationally too, it ranks in one of the top 100 whiskies of the world. It has a unique malty smell mixed with earthy tones, making it popular among budget-conscious consumers.

Despite being around for a long time, Bagpiper whisky is still affordable, making it a preferable option for budget-conscious people who want decent quality without breaking the bank.

Having pioneered the sale of whiskies in tetra packs, Bagpiper has also won many accolades for its out-of-the-box marketing, including the Readers Digest award in the year 2006.

12. Johnnie Walker Black Label

Johnnie Walker Black Label is a well-known 12-year-old blend made in Scotland by combining whiskies from four different regions. It is famous for its rich flavour and has gained huge popularity, particularly in India, establishing itself as a key feature of the prestigious Johnnie Walker brand.

Its adaptability means it can be savoured neat, with ice, or as a crucial element in traditional drinks. The famous Johnnie Walker Black Label impresses whiskey lovers with its excellent tradition and quality.

What are Some popular Whiskies brands in India?

Whisky, a distilled spirit made from fermented grains, was first produced in regions where grapes were not common, like Scotland, where plentiful grains were used as a substitute. Different countries made their own whiskey to suit local tastes and ingredients as time went by. Here are a few popular types of Whisky:

Irish Whiskey:

Known for its light and fruity notes, Irish whiskey is traditionally distilled in copper pots and must be aged for at least three years in Ireland.

• Single Malt: Crafted solely from malted barley within a single distillery.
• Grain: Lighter in profile, typically made from corn or grain.

American Whiskey:

American whiskeys are characterised by ageing in charred oak barrels and generally maintaining an ABV under 80%. They offer sweeter profiles compared to others.

• Bourbon: Predominantly made from a corn mash comprising at least 51%.
• Rye: Features a rye mash distilled to a maximum of 80% ABV.
• Wheat: Contains a minimum of 51% wheat mash.
• Tennessee: Similar to Bourbon but undergoes charcoal filtration for a smoother taste.
• American Single Malt: Known for its smoky, aromatic, and honey-like flavours.

Scotch Whisky:

With a diverse regional influence, Scotch whisky is exclusively made from malted barley, aged for a minimum of three years in Scotland.

• Highland: Offers fruity notes with a hint of spice, reflecting the region’s expansive landscape.
• Lowland: Known for mild-bodied whiskies with lighter characteristics, produced by a select few distilleries.
• Campbeltown: Influenced by its coastal surroundings, resulting in distinctive sea-inspired flavours from a handful of distilleries.
• Islay: Exhibits a briny and smoky taste, influenced by the surrounding sea.
• Speyside: Home to over half of Scotland’s distilleries, known for sweeter tones and a rich finish, courtesy of the river Spey.

Japanese Whisky:

Drawing inspiration from Scottish Lowlands and Speyside whiskies, Japanese whisky stands out with its light, delicate flavours often enhanced with a honey-like sweetness. Embracing both traditional and modern techniques, Japanese distilleries aim to cater to evolving consumer preferences while maintaining the essence of whisky craftsmanship.

Price Ranges of Top Whisky Brands India

When it comes to Indian whiskies, there is a wide range of price options to suit different budgets. From budget-friendly options to premium selections, Indian whiskies offer something for everyone.

Budget-friendly whiskies like McDowell’s No. 1 and Imperial Blue offer affordable options that still deliver on taste and quality. Premium brands like Amrut and Paul John offer exceptional quality and unique flavours for those looking to indulge.

Premium and Budget-Friendly Picks

When choosing whiskey, consider your preferences and budget. Indian whiskies offer a variety of options for both premium and budget-conscious consumers.

Premium whiskies, like single malts and aged Scotch, offer exceptional quality and unique flavours. They are made from high-quality ingredients matured for extended periods.

Budget-friendly options, made from a blend of grains and malts, provide accessible drinking experiences without compromising on taste or quality.

The premium-quality whisky is available in various states in India, including Maharashtra, Kolkata, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Bangalore, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Mumbai, Delhi, Daman and Diu, West Bengal, and Goa.

Whether you favour the complexity of a premium whiskey or the affordability of a budget-friendly choice, Indian whiskies offer a wide selection to meet various preferences.

Conclusion

Indian whisky brands in a nation known for their rich cultural heritage are known for their unique flavours and skilled artistry. From the elegant Amrut Fusion to the classic McDowell’s No. 1, each sip tells a tale of tradition and innovation. Whether you prefer the smoothness of a single malt or the complex notes of a blend, there is a whisky waiting to enthral your senses. What’s more? Elevate your whisky experience by enjoying it with tasty snacks. Try popular options like samosas, chicken pakoras, paneer tikka, aloo chaat, fish amritsari, smoked salmon, and more. These delicious treats will take your whisky enjoyment to the next level. Explore these high-quality options and elevate your drinking experience with a taste of India’s finest. Cheers to discovering the essence of Indian spirits!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best whiskey brands in the Indian market?

Some of the best whiskey brands in the Indian market include Amrut, Paul John, and Blenders Pride. These brands are known for their exceptional quality, unique flavours, and wide availability, making them popular among whiskey enthusiasts.

Which whisky do people like for parties these days?

For parties, people often go for whiskies like Amrut, Ballantine’s, GianChand, Teachers, Jack Daniels, and Johnnie Walker.

What’s a good whisky that doesn’t cost too much?

Blenders Pride is a great choice if you want a tasty whisky that’s affordable.

Which whisky is the strongest among the ones you mentioned?

Amrut, Ballantine’s, and Chivas Regal are strong because they have a high alcohol content. They’re good for drinking straight or with ice.

Is Whiskey Better With Soda or Water?

Whether you prefer whiskey with soda or water is all about personal preference. Some whiskeys are strong, but adding water can make them smoother, especially Irish and American whiskeys which are not aged for long. For a different experience, soda adds bubbles and freshness to the drink, making it more exciting.o whiskies produced in Scotland.

Are There Any Indian Whiskey Brands That Compete Globally?

Yes, there are Indian whiskey brands that have gained recognition and compete in the global market. Brands like Amrut, Paul John, and Kamet have received international acclaim for their exceptional quality and unique flavours.