India is one of the largest markets for whisky in the world, boasting a wide range of local and international brands. Whisky enthusiasts in the country have access to a diverse array of blends, flavors, and price ranges, making it easier for every individual to find a whisky that suits their palate and budget. Below, we explore the best whisky brands in India with their unique features, prices, and characteristics.
Best Whiskey Brands in India
1. Dewar’s 18-Year-Old Blended Scotch Whisky
Dewar’s 18 is an epitome of sophistication, offering a creamy finish and a subtle smokiness. This whisky, renowned among the best in India, is aged to perfection for 18 years. Its 40% alcohol content ensures a smooth and balanced drinking experience.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Delicate and creamy with hints of smoke.
- Awards: Gold medal at the 2012 International Wine & Spirits Competition.
- Price Range: Rs. 8,000 to Rs. 9,500 for 750 ml.
Other Dewar’s Varieties
- Dewar’s 12-Year-Old: Rs. 3,029 (750 ml)
- Dewar’s 15-Year-Old: Rs. 5,290 (1L)
- Dewar’s 25-Year-Old: Rs. 22,800 (750 ml)
- Dewar’s White Label: Rs. 1,800 (750 ml)
2. Jameson Irish Whiskey
Jameson is a beloved name among whisky lovers, especially for its triple-distilled process, which ensures a smooth and refined taste. Known for its golden honey color and exceptional balance, this Irish whisky remains a top choice for Indian consumers.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Spicy, nutty, and vanilla tones with a mellow finish.
- Alcohol Content: 40%.
- Price Range: Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 5,000 for 750 ml.
Popular Jameson Variants
- Jameson Irish Whiskey Caskmates: Rs. 4,450 (750 ml)
- Jameson Irish Whiskey: Rs. 3,790 (1L)
- Smaller Quantities: Rs. 400 for 60 ml, Rs. 970 for 180 ml.
3. Ballantine’s Scotch Whisky
Ballantine’s is a name synonymous with premium whisky, with its 1827 origins lending it a rich legacy. It offers a smooth, balanced taste complemented by notes of honey and vanilla. With a slightly higher alcohol percentage of 42.8%, it appeals to seasoned whisky enthusiasts.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Aromatic honey, vanilla, and a hint of smoke.
- Price Range: Rs. 3,000 to Rs. 5,000 for 750 ml.
Popular Ballantine’s Options
- Ballantine’s 17-Year-Old: Rs. 7,590 (750 ml)
- Ballantine’s 21-Year-Old: Rs. 12,790 (750 ml)
- Ballantine’s Finest Scotch: Rs. 2,290 (750 ml).
4. Black Dog Reserve Whiskey
Black Dog Reserve is revered for its premium quality and smooth texture. Crafted in Scotland, this whisky is aged to perfection in oak casks, making it a top-tier choice among Indian whisky brands.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Smooth and rich, with a harmonious blend of malt and grain whiskies.
- Alcohol Content: 42.8%.
- Price Range: Rs. 1,600 to Rs. 3,220 depending on the variant.
Notable Black Dog Varieties
- Black Dog Centenary Aged: Rs. 2,500 (750 ml)
- Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve: Rs. 2,660 (1L).
5. Johnnie Walker Red Label Whisky
Johnnie Walker is a name that needs no introduction, and its Red Label blend is a testament to the brand’s legacy. Crafted with whiskies from four Scottish regions, it offers a balanced and flavorful experience.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Cedar, butterscotch, and spiced rum.
- Alcohol Content: 40%.
- Price Range: Rs. 2,500 to Rs. 4,000 for 750 ml.
Other Johnnie Walker Labels
- Blue Label: Rs. 14,400 (750 ml)
- Double Black: Rs. 3,120 (750 ml).
6. Monkey Shoulder Whisky
Monkey Shoulder is a unique blended malt whisky, featuring malts from three renowned Speyside distilleries. This whisky is known for its smooth texture and exceptional affordability in India.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Sweet and malty, with hints of vanilla and oak.
- Price: Rs. 3,900 for 700 ml.
7. Black & White Whisky
Black & White Whisky is celebrated for its light and smooth profile. As a London-style blend, it combines some of Scotland’s finest malts and grains, making it a popular choice in India.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Subtle and balanced, with a floral and malty aroma.
- Price: Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 2,930 depending on the variant and size.
9. Teacher’s Highland Cream
Teacher’s Highland Cream holds a special place in the hearts of Indian whisky lovers, thanks to its smoky undertones and rich texture. Crafted with over 30 whiskies, it is a versatile choice for any occasion.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Smoky, toffee-like sweetness with malt and fruity hints.
- Alcohol Content: 40%.
- Price Range: Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 3,235 for 750 ml.
10. Imperial Blue
Imperial Blue, one of the most popular Indian whisky brands, is a perfect blend of Scotch malts and Indian grain whiskies. It delivers exceptional quality at an affordable price, making it a go-to choice for many.
Key Features
- Flavor Profile: Smooth, with a balance of sweet and grainy notes.
- Alcohol Content: 42.8%.
- Price: Rs. 490 for 750 ml.
11. Royal Challenge
Royal Challenge, popularly known as RC, is a flagship Indian whisky brand that perfectly fuses Scotch malts, Indian malts, and grain spirits. Originally crafted by Shaw Wallace and now owned by United Spirits Ltd. (part of Diageo), this whisky has maintained its royal reputation for decades.
Achievements and Popularity
RC holds the distinction of being the first whisky in the mid-prestige price segment to cross the threshold of 1 million cases in annual sales. With over 4.5 million cases sold every year, it has cemented itself as a household name for whisky lovers across India.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
Royal Challenge offers a smooth and balanced drinking experience with an alcohol content of 42.8%, adhering to India’s permissible limits for whiskies.
- 180 ml: ₹140
- 375 ml: ₹260
- 750 ml: ₹460
12. The Rockford Reserve
The Rockford Reserve is a premium whisky brand born from a joint venture between Umesh Modi Group and Saronno Modi Illva India Pvt. Ltd. Its introduction marked the brand’s foray into the premium whisky market with variants like Rockford Reserve and Rockford Classic.
Unique Craftsmanship
This whisky stands out due to its meticulous craftsmanship, including an eight-year aging process in American oak casks. Made using imported grains and infused with natural herbs and Himalayan spring water, it offers a distinctive flavor that combines complexity and smoothness.
Pricing and Alcohol Content
The Rockford Reserve is a preferred choice among connoisseurs for its golden hue, seductive aroma, and 42.8% ABV.
- 750 ml: ₹850
- 1000 ml: ₹1150
13. Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky
Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky holds the honor of being India’s first single malt whisky, launched in 2004. Produced by the Amrut Distillery, this whisky has gained global acclaim for its remarkable quality and taste. It is now sold in over 20 countries, including Belgium, Denmark, and Singapore, and is regarded as a trailblazer in the Indian whisky landscape.
Flavor Profile
This single malt whisky presents a rich and luscious flavor profile with notes of fruit, honey, and spice. The blend’s impeccable balance ensures every sip is an unforgettable experience.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky has an alcohol percentage of 46%, offering a premium experience for whisky lovers.
- 750 ml: ₹3000–₹6000
14. Antiquity Blue Whisky
Antiquity Blue Whisky, launched in 1992 by Shaw Wallace, is known for its seamless blend of Scottish grain whiskies and Indian malts. Its unique combination of tradition and modernity has earned it a loyal fan base.
Tasting Notes and Aroma
Antiquity Blue stands out for its smooth texture, making it suitable for neat drinking or mixing with water, soda, or ice. It offers a delightful aroma of peat smoke, honeycomb, and dark fruits, complemented by flavors of honey, caramel, and cinnamon. The finish leaves subtle hints of vanilla and dark chocolate, making it a luxurious choice.
Price Range and ABV
With an alcohol content of 42.8%, Antiquity Blue is available in an affordable range.
- 750 ml: ₹1000–₹2000
15. Rampur Single Malt Whisky
Rampur Single Malt Whisky, crafted by Radico Khaitan, made its debut in Las Vegas in April 2016. Despite being a relatively new entrant, it has carved a niche for itself with its distinctive qualities and global appeal.
Distinctive Qualities
This whisky is distilled in copper pot stills using carefully selected Himalayan malted barley. Aged in oak barrels, it boasts a smooth character with rich notes of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits. The craftsmanship and attention to detail elevate Rampur to a class apart.
Pricing and Alcohol Content
Rampur Single Malt Whisky has a robust alcohol percentage of 63%, reflecting its bold character.
- 750 ml: ₹3500–₹5500
16. Paul John Brilliance Whisky
Paul John Brilliance Whisky, crafted by John Distilleries, is a shining star in the Indian whisky market. Launched in 2013, this single malt whisky has captured the hearts of whisky enthusiasts worldwide. With its origins in Goa, the tropical climate contributes significantly to its unique maturation process, setting it apart from traditional single malts.
Tasting Experience
Paul John Brilliance is known for its fruity and creamy texture. It combines the sweetness of honey and butterscotch with a hint of cocoa, creating a balanced and luxurious palate. Matured in charred American oak barrels, it delivers a velvety finish that lingers on your taste buds, making every sip a delightful experience.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
With an alcohol content of 46%, this whisky is a premium offering for discerning drinkers.
- 750 ml: ₹3500–₹5000
17. The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Whisky
The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Whisky is a hallmark of excellence in the single malt whisky category. Produced by the iconic Glenlivet Distillery in Scotland, it has earned its place among the most sought-after whiskies in India. Known for its consistent quality, it appeals to whisky enthusiasts who appreciate heritage and finesse.
Flavor Profile
This whisky is characterized by its fruity and creamy notes. Hints of pineapple, vanilla, honey, and a gentle touch of oak make it a balanced yet complex single malt. The smooth finish leaves a memorable impression, perfect for those who prefer subtlety over intensity.
Pricing and ABV
With an alcohol percentage of 40%, Glenlivet 12-Year-Old Whisky offers an elegant drinking experience.
- 750 ml: ₹5500–₹7000
18. Chivas Regal 12-Year-Old Whisky
Chivas Regal 12-Year-Old Whisky, a blend crafted by Chivas Brothers, has been a global favorite since its inception in 1909. Known for its rich heritage and premium quality, this whisky represents sophistication in a bottle. It has become a go-to choice for celebratory moments and special occasions.
Taste and Texture
Chivas Regal is celebrated for its smooth, creamy texture with notes of ripe apples, honey, and a gentle hint of spice. Its balanced flavor profile appeals to seasoned whisky drinkers and newcomers alike. The finish, with hints of hazelnut and butterscotch, adds to its charm.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
This whisky has a standard alcohol content of 40%, making it a versatile option for all kinds of whisky drinkers.
- 750 ml: ₹2500–₹5000
19. McDowell’s No.1 Platinum
Launched in 2010, McDowell’s No.1 Platinum has become a symbol of premium whisky in India. A blend of Indian spirits and Scotch malts, it combines affordability with quality, catering to a wide range of consumers.
Taste and Aroma
McDowell’s Platinum delivers a smooth, grainy mouthfeel with a subtle hint of oak spice. The aroma is rich with malty notes, balanced by a touch of honey and fruit, making it perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
This whisky boasts an alcohol content of 42.8%, making it a robust and enjoyable choice.
- 750 ml: ₹500–₹1200
20. Royal Stag Barrel Select Whisky
Royal Stag Barrel Select, introduced in 2011, is a premium variant of the popular Royal Stag brand. Known for its fine craftsmanship, this whisky is a blend of carefully selected Scotch malts and Indian grain spirits.
Taste and Aroma
Aged in handpicked oak barrels, this whisky reveals a smooth, refined taste with hints of charred coconut and vanilla. The fruity aroma, coupled with subtle peat undertones, makes it a favorite among whisky connoisseurs.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
With an alcohol content of 42.8%, Royal Stag Barrel Select offers an exceptional experience at an affordable price.
- 750 ml: ₹600–₹1000
21. Seagram’s 100 Pipers Deluxe
Introduced in India in 1995, Seagram’s 100 Pipers Deluxe is a trusted name among whisky lovers. It is known for its elegant blend of Scotch whiskies, offering a balanced and approachable drinking experience.
Tasting Notes
The whisky delivers a pleasant smokiness with fruity undertones. Its smooth texture and full-flavored palate make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy a mild yet flavorful whisky.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
Seagram’s 100 Pipers Deluxe has an alcohol content of 42.8%, providing an optimal balance of flavor and strength.
- 750 ml: ₹2000–₹3000
22. Vat 69
Vat 69, a classic Scotch whisky, was created in 1882 by William Sanderson. Known for its smoothness and rich heritage, this blend continues to charm whisky enthusiasts worldwide, including in India.
Tasting Experience
This whisky offers a distinct sweetness of vanilla, complemented by a smooth and well-balanced character. The subtle complexity makes it a favorite for both solo sipping and cocktails.
Price Range and Alcohol Content
Vat 69 contains an alcohol percentage of 40%, delivering a refined experience at a reasonable price.
- 750 ml: ₹1500–₹2500
23. Indri-Trini Whisky
Indri Whisky draws inspiration from the vibrant indri bird and offers an equally colorful drinking experience. Its unique blend and innovative approach make it a standout choice in the Indian whisky market.
Tasting Notes
The whisky features notes of dried fruits, young oak, caramel, vanilla, and a refreshing touch of lemon. Its balanced yet dynamic profile appeals to both novice and experienced drinkers.
Price Range and ABV
Indri Whisky has an alcohol content of 46%, reflecting its robust and full-bodied character.
- 750 ml: ₹3500–₹5000
Best Whisky Under ₹1500 in India
Cutty Sark Blended Scotch
This light and smooth Scotch whisky offers a delightful mix of barley, custard, and herbs. It’s perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly option.
- Price: ₹1477
Jim Beam Kentucky Straight Bourbon
A top bourbon worldwide, this whisky combines smokiness from charred oak barrels with the sweetness of corn and rye.
- Price: ₹1363
Conclusion
Embark on an exciting journey through India’s finest whisky brands, each offering unique flavors and a rich heritage. From the luxurious single malts to budget-friendly gems, these whiskies cater to every palate. Whether you’re savoring a royal experience or indulging in everyday elegance, there’s a bottle for every occasion. Cheers to discovering the best whisky India has to offer!