A quick guide to Indian whisky
For years, Indian whisky was largely known for mass-market blends catering to its enormous domestic audience.
But in recent decades, something remarkable has happened: India’s whisky scene has evolved into one of the most exciting and dynamic in the world.
Now, Indian single malts are collecting awards, gaining recognition, and proving that the country can produce world-class whisky.
Whether it’s the impact of extreme climates, unique cask finishes, or a sense of genuine local identity, Indian whisky is here to stay.
Indian single malt whisky is a golden age
What is Indian Whisky?
Indian whisky, much like its Scotch, American, and Japanese counterparts, is a broad category that covers everything from blended spirits to single malts.
Historically, much of what was sold as whisky in India contained a mix of molasses-based spirits and grain whisky, thanks to British colonial influences and local regulations.
However, in the past few decades, the country has seen a surge in high-quality, grain-based whiskies, particularly single malts.
How is Indian Whisky different to Scotch whisky?
Unlike Scotland, where cool weather creates a slow and steady maturation, India’s tropical climate accelerates the process, causing a huge interaction between the spirit and wood. This creates the effect of a whisky that appears older than it is, with rich flavours and deep, dark colour present after just a few years.
Distinct, varying climates aren’t the only thing Indian whisky trades on, however. Innovative cask finishes and the use of locally sourced ingredients, while maintaining a deep respect for the traditions of whisky making, is what has given Indian single malt its distinct personality.
India is the world’s largest whisky market by volume. While much of this is mass-market blended whisky, the appetite for premium single malts is growing rapidly. Indian single malts are now winning major awards and receiving praise from whisky critics worldwide, breaking old perceptions that whisky must come from Scotland to be exceptional.
Godawan Series 01 and Godawan Series 02 have recently arrived at Master of Malt
Standout Indian Whiskies
If you’re just getting into Indian whisky, here are some key bottles that showcase the country’s craft and innovation:
Godawan Series 02 – Fruit and Spice Whisky
This single malt from Rajasthan’s Alwar distillery matures in cherrywood casks. The extreme climate intensifies its fruit and spice notes, while the distillery’s sustainable barley and water conservation methods make it a whisky with a conscience.
Indri Trini Three Wood Indian Single Malt Whisky
A showcase of cask influence, this whisky is aged in first-fill bourbon, French wine, and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks. Matured in the Himalayan foothills, it’s complex, balanced, and packed with layers of dried fruit, vanilla, and spice. Indri has proved very popular so far.
Rampur Double Cask Single Malt Whisky
A beautifully crafted single malt from one of India’s most respected distilleries. Two-thirds of its ageing takes place in American oak bourbon barrels, while the remaining third rests in European oak sherry casks. The result? A perfect balance of dry spice, tropical fruit, and creamy vanilla.
From Goa’s Paul John Distilleries, Bold is a fully peated single malt that brings a smoky edge to Indian whisky. The peat is sourced from Islay, but the whisky is unmistakably Indian, with rich tropical fruit notes balancing the maritime smoke.
Amrut Single Malt Cask Strength Whisky
Amrut Single Malt Cask Strength Whisky was bottled at an impressive 61.8% ABV. If you want a true demonstration of the power and potential of Indian single malt, this is it. Bangalore’s warm climate helped develop a lovely array of tropical fruit, spice, and caramelised notes.
Paul John is one of the leading Indian producers
What Comes Next for Indian single malt?
Indian whisky is only going to get bigger and better. Here’s what to watch out for:
More unique cask finishes – With distillers already playing with cherrywood, sherry, wine, and even Tequila casks, expect more experimental ageing and finishing techniques.
Rising premiumisation – As demand for high-end whisky grows, we’ll see more age-stated and luxury releases. What we’ve witnessed so far has barely scratched the surface.
Increased global presence – Indian single malt has focused its trade on the export market, hitting shelves worldwide for a number of years now. As international appreciation grows, we’ll see more exports and new markets opening up.
Sustainability, terroir, and identity –Distilleries like Godawan focusing on sustainable barley and water conservation show that Indian single malt is no stranger to the trends of our time. More brands are likely to highlight local ingredients and environmental impact going forward.
The Last Drop: Why you should explore Indian whisky
Indian whisky is no longer home to just domestic powerhouse brands creating molasses-based spirits. It’s a home of fine single malts that are attaining increasing attention on the global stage.
A growing appetite for the most exciting whiskies in the world beyond traditional whisky-producing nations is helping drive the interest. Where will your explorations take you next?
There’s never been a better time to see what Indian whisky has to offer.
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