Whether you’re hosting a party, winding down after a long day, or simply exploring the world of spirits, one sip at a time, whiskey holds a timeless charm unlike any other spirit. And when it comes to whiskey, India has always had a deep-rooted soft corner for this humble spirit.
No matter your taste or budget, there’s a whiskey brand out there in India for everyone. So, we thought why not round up the top 10 good whiskey brands in India that offer great value and taste. Here’s your ultimate whiskey guide for every budget!
Price: INR 190 onwards
Royal Stag is a crowd favorite and a staple whiskey in many Indian households, so it’s no surprise that it is on this list. Blending grain spirits with imported Scotch malts, this whiskey offers a surprisingly smooth, decadent drinking experience at an affordable price. Perfect for casual gatherings, intimate dinners, or a relaxed evening, Royal Stag is the ultimate budget-friendly whiskey for many in India.
Price: INR 390 onwards
Over the years, Blenders Pride has gained a loyal following for delivering big on richness and flavor without burning a hole in your wallet. The Pernod-Ricard-owned brand is a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts. The result is a subtle whisky with fruity notes and a gentle smokiness. Ideal for sipping neat, on the rocks, or with a splash of water, the whiskey is a beloved choice for many special occasions.
Price: INR 170 onwards
McDowell’s No. 1 needs no introduction – the brand has carved a niche for itself over the years. It’s easily accessible and affordable, making it a go-to whiskey for many beginners and whiskey lovers. The blend of Indian spirits and select Scotch malts to create a bold, flavorful yet comforting whiskey that’s a reliable choice for special occasions and celebrations. Have you tried this whiskey yet?
Price: 5670
This triple-cask matured single malt combines Indian craftsmanship with state-of-the-art global innovation. With aromas of toasted oak, honey, and dried fruits with subtle hints of spice. On the palate, the whiskey offers a smooth, caramelized flavor of dark chocolate, nuts, and orange zest. Hailing from Haryana, it’s matured in ex-bourbon, French wine, and PX sherry casks. The result? An intricately delicious whiskey that’s one of the most popular Indian whiskeys in today’s times.
Price: INR 5460
Crafted by Amrut Distilleries in Bangalore, Amrut Single Malt Whisky is an internationally-awarded and acclaimed whiskey that’s putting India on the global whiskey map. Amrut stands as a bridge between Scotch and Kentucky whiskies while maintaining a distinct Indian characteristic. With rich notes of spice, fruit, and a hint of peat smoke, the single malt is intricately flavored and decadent to the last sip. Perfect for cozy evenings, late night dinners, or intimate get-togethers, the Amrut Fusion Premium Indian Single Malt is the perfect choice for premium whiskey lovers.
Price: INR 420 onwards
This name in our list of good whiskey brands in India is the one that enjoys a good word-of-mouth, mainly due to its balanced taste. With notes of caramel, vanilla, and light oak, the creamy, velvety whiskey is a premium whiskey in the mid-premium category. A smooth mouthfeel yet a little complex, Rockford Reserve is an enjoyable whisky for sipping as well as gifting.
Price: INR 6300 for 750 ml
Goa’s shores bring a unique whiskey that’s steeped in ‘brilliance’ – quite literally! Paul John Brilliance is a smooth, flavorful, and award-winning non-peated single malt. With notes of honey, vanilla, and a touch of cinnamon, the luxurious drink offers a smooth, velvety mouthfeel that lingers on your palate. Paul John’s rise in the Indian market as well as the global stage reflects how Indian distilleries are now on par with global single malt producers.
Price: INR 7250 for 700 ml
There are many good scotch whiskey brands in India, but Glenfiddich 12 Year Old stands out for its 12-year old expression. Aged in a combination of oak barrels, the whiskey results in a balanced and flavorful product perfect for newcomers and seasoned whiskey drinkers alike. On the nose, you have a delightful aroma of pear, vanilla, and green apple, with hints of honey and oak. And on the palate, the whiskey delights you with flavors of toffee, fruits, and a touch of spice.
Price: INR 900 onwards
Even though it is neither a Scotch nor an Indian whiskey, Jameson has gained a reputation in India for its smooth, velvety taste. This triple-distilled Irish whiskey is known for its light floral notes, hints of spice, and triple-distilled product. The result is a refined and sophisticated whiskey that is complex yet easy to drink. The whiskey offers aromas of vanilla, caramel, and toasted oak along with flavors of honey, citrus zest, and fruits. Whether you enjoy it on the rocks or in a cocktail, Jameson is a great mid-budget, international pick for both whiskey newbies and enthusiasts.
Price: INR 12,200
The Glenlivet 18 Year Old is a prestigious single malt Scotch whisky from the Glenlivet Distillery in Scotland. The whiskey offers a rich and flavorful profile with notes of tropical fruits, caramel, oak, and spice. On the palate, the whiskey offers a full-bodied experience with flavors of pineapple, mango, and cinnamon. This 18-year-old expression is matured in a combination of oak barrels, resulting in a refined, smooth, and luxurious whisky with a sophisticated finish.
Here we’ve rounded up our list of the top 10 good whiskey brands in India for every budget. From affordable brands like Royal Stag and McDowell’s No.1 to more premium brands like Paul John Brilliance and Amrut, there’s a whiskey out there that suits every palate and budget. Whether you’re willing to splurge big or go for the more pocket-friendly experience, we’ve got you covered!
.jpg&w=3840&q=100)