There’s no doubt that Indians have an unmatched love for whisky. Be it a bottle of economically priced whisky, or a fine bottle of luxurious scotch whisky, both are equally sought after. The sheer number of whisky brands available in India is a testament to the country’s love for this golden nectar.
There are many economical choices for whisky brands such as Royal Challenge, Officers Choice, Bagpiper, Original Choice, and Director’s Special. Then there are ones that slowly group the scale such as Imperial blue, Blenders Pride, McDowell’s Signature, etc. Here are the best brands of whisky in India in 2022.
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Best Whisky Brands in India
We curated a list of top selling whisky brands in India. This list also includes Indian whisky brands.
1. Imperial Blue Whisky
Price of Imperial Blue Whisky in India = Rs. 455 for 750 milliliters
ABV in Imperial Blue = 42.8%
2. Blenders Pride Reserve Collection Whisky
Tata Sampann 100% Chana Dal Fine Besan, Gram Flour, 1 Kg
₹125.00 (as of November 21, 2024 11:13 GMT +05:30 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
The Blenders Pride Reserve Collection is one of the most premium whiskies in the country. Finest scotch malts are blended with the best Indian grain spirits and aged in oak barrels using the Solera Process of maturation.
The Blenders Pride Reserve Collection has subtle notes of vanilla, honey, and fruits. The smoky, fruity flavor profile has a rich, creamy, and warm finish.
Price of Blenders Pride Reserve Collection in India = Rs. 1047 for 750 milliliters
ABV in Blenders Pride Reserve Collection = 42.8%
3. Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky
Price of Amrut Indian Single Malt whisky in India = Rs. 3400 for 750 milliliters
ABV in Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky= 46%
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4. Antiquity Blue Whisky
Price of Antiquity Blue in India = Rs. 857 for 750 milliliters
ABV in Antiquity Blue = 42.8%
5. Paul John Brilliance Whisky
This is yet another Indian single malt whisky. This whisky produced at the John distilleries which have been previously producing economical whisky options such as Original Choice. Its fine taste and high quality have made it one of the best-selling whisky brands despite its recent release in 2013.
Price of Paul John Brilliance Whisky in India = Rs. 4640
ABV in Paul John Brilliance = 46%
6. McDowell’s Signature Whisky
Price of McDowell’s Signature Whisky in India = Rs. 920 for 750 milliliters
ABV in McDowell’s Signature Whisky = 42.8%
7. Royal Stag Barrel Select Whisky
Price of Royal Stag Barrel Select in India = Rs. 663
ABV in Royal Stag Barrel Select = 42.8%
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8. Jameson Irish Whisky
The Jameson Irish whisky is made using both malted and unmalted barley, fine grain whisky and distilled thrice. To be called an Irish whisky, it has to be aged for at least three years on the island of Ireland
Price of Jameson Irish Whisky in India = Rs. 2400 for 1 liter
ABV in Jameson Irish Whisky = 40%
9. The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Whisky
Price of Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Whisky = Rs. 5000 for 1 liter
ABV in The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Whisky = 40%
10. Chivas Regal 12-Year-Old Whisky
Price of Chivas Regal 12-Year-Old Whisky = Rs. 2300 for 1 liter
ABV in the Chivas Regal 12-Year-Old Whisky = 40%
11. Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky
Price of Johnnie Walker Black Label = Rs. 2800 for 1 liter
ABV in Johnnie Walker Black Label = 40%
12. Dewar’s White Label Whisky
Price of Dewar’s White Label Whisky in India = Rs. 1480 for 1 liter
ABV IN Dewar’s White Label Whisky = 40%
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Types of Whisky
Whisky is made using distilling fermented grains. It is believed that it was invented in countries like Scotland, where grapes were scarce to make spirits like wines. Hence, they used the one commodity that they did have in abundance, which was grains. Slowly, whisky made its way around the globe, with many different variations popping up in different countries to match their tastes and the availability of raw materials.
1. Irish whiskey
Irish whisky tends to have light and fruity characteristics. Irish whisky is traditionally distilled in copper pots. To be called an Irish whisky, it must be aged for a minimum of three years in Ireland.
1.1. Single malt
This is completely made from malted barley in a single distillery.
1.2. Grain
This is a lighter whisky made with corn or grain.
2. American whiskey
American whiskeys are usually aged in charred oak barrels. Their ABV levels remain under 80%. In a nutshell, American whiskies have a sweeter flavor profile without the smoky, peaty, or briny flavor that most other whiskeys do.
2.1. Bourbon
To classify as a Bourbon, a whisky must be made of 51% corn mash.
2.2. Rye
The whisky must at least partially be made of rye mash and should be distilled down to no more than 80% ABV.
2.3. Wheat
This whisky is made of 51% wheat mash.
2.4. Tennessee
This whisky is quite similar to a Bourbon, however; it goes through a charcoal filtration process, which makes the whisky a little milder in flavor.
2.5. American Single Malt
A very popular whisky type, the American single malts tend to have a smoky, aromatic, and honey-like taste.
3. Scotch whisky
The Scotch whisky has a rich and vibrant history behind it. This is the reason why different regions of Scotland are known for producing different types of whiskies. All scotch whiskeys are made from malted barley, aged for at least three years and must be made in Scotland.
3.1. Highland
The highlands cover the most area of all the five sections in Scotland. The whiskys made in these regions tend to have a fruity flavor with a little bit of spice.
3.2. Lowland
There are only three functioning distilleries in this area which are- Bladnoch, Glenkinchie, and Auchentoshan. The whiskys produced here are mild bodied and have lighter characteristics.
3.3. Campbeltown
The whisky here is influenced by the sea. Just as the Lowlands, only three distilleries function here- Springbank, Glengyle and Glen Scotia.
3.4. Islay
Like Campbeltown, Islay region is also heavily influenced by the sea that surrounds it. This tends to show in the taste of the whisky of the region which has a briny and smoky taste.
3.5. Speyside
With the river Spey running through the region, it is home to over half of all the Scottish distilleries. These are some of the best scotch whiskys with sweeter tones and a rich finish.
4. Japanese whisky
These are some of the most unique whisky brands. Japanese whisky brands take inspiration from the Lowlands and Speyside whiskies of Scotland. They are light whiskies with smooth, delicate flavors and the added sweetness of honey. Japan is constantly using cutting-edge technology to produce whiskies to match the needs of consumers and, on the other hand, countries like Scotland still practice traditional processes.
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Frequently Asked Questions
1. What distinguishes premium Indian whisky brands from others?
Premium Indian whisky brands are often distinguished by their smoothness, complexity of flavors, use of high-quality ingredients, and meticulous aging processes. They may also offer unique blends and limited editions for discerning whisky enthusiasts.
2. Are there any internationally acclaimed Indian whisky brands?
Yes, certain Indian whisky brands have gained international recognition for their exceptional quality and craftsmanship. Brands such as Amrut and Paul John have won numerous awards at prestigious whisky competitions around the world, putting India on the global whisky map.
3. What factors should I consider when choosing a whisky brand in India?
When selecting a whisky brand in India, consider factors such as your personal taste preferences, the reputation of the brand, reviews from whisky connoisseurs, the type of whisky (single malt, blended, etc.), and the price range that fits your budget.
4. Where can I purchase the best whisky brands in India?
You can find the best whisky brands in India at reputable liquor stores, duty-free shops, online retailers, and select bars and restaurants that specialize in fine spirits. Additionally, some brands may offer direct purchase options through their official websites or authorized distributors.
