Whether you’re jetting off for a holiday or returning from one, it is an unsaid ritual to shop at the duty-free stores lined up inside the airport. And if you’re someone who appreciates a fine bottle of whisky, let us tell you that duty-free stores are some of the best places on earth to get those. So if you’re passing through Mumbai or Delhi airports, here are the top whisky brands to buy duty-free!
ABV: 40%Why Buy It: Creamy, spicy, and full of characterJameson Black Barrel is a notch up from the regular Jameson most of us know, love, and cherish. It is like that one bold cousin all of us have in our family – the one who’s bold, unapologetic, and charming. This whisky is aged in double-charred bourbon barrels. It is this process that brings out the deeper, richer layers and complexity and a vibrant flavor that tingles on your taste buds.This duty-free find is worth the grab because of its distinct smoothness and versatility. Sip it neat or stir it up in a whisky sour; there are many ways to enjoy this drink. With notes of butterscotch, vanilla, toasted wood, creamy toffee, and a little hint of spice, Jameson Black Barrel is one of the top whisky brands to buy duty-free in Mumbai and Delhi.Perfect For: Gifting to a friend who appreciates balance in their dram—or keeping for yourself as a reliable all-rounder.Price: INR 3990 in Delhi Duty-Free
ABV: 46%Why Buy It: Smoky, layered, and unique in its triple cask ageingArdmore Triplewood is matured in ex-bourbon barrels, quarter casks, and puncheons, and this lends the whisky a unique depth and complexity. This use of quarter casks is inspired by 19th-century designs and that is what makes the whisky even more special.In every sip, you get a delicious medley of soft smoke, dried fruit, vanilla, and a silky, smooth velvety finish. There’s a rustic, understated charm to Ardmore that makes it ideal for sipping as you watch a movie or hang out with friends.Perfect For: Those just beginning to explore lightly peated whisky.Price: INR 7090 at Mumbai Duty-FreeAlso Read: 5 Classic Cocktails With Vada Pav For Your Boozy Rainy Day Cravings
ABV: 45%Why Buy It: Indian whisky heritage meets international flairStraight from Radico Khaitan’s distillery, Rampur Double Cask is distilled in the foothills of the Himalayas. This single malt whisky is matured in a combination of American bourbon barrels and European sherry casks. This combination strikes a fine balance between the sweetness and spice and makes the whisky a one-of-a-kind experience.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Rampur Indian Single Malt Whisky (@rampursinglemalt)
On the nose, the whisky gives you rich tropical fruit, dry spice, and warm oak. As you take a sip, you get a taste of vanilla, apricot, and subtle nuttiness. And the finish? It’s oh-so-smooth and satisfying. Rampur Double Cask takes Indian craft whisky to a whole new level as it manages to make the experience a global one.Perfect For: Whisky enthusiasts who want to explore premium Indian craftsmanship.Price: INR 9090 at Delhi Duty-Free
ABV: 40%Why Buy It: Smooth, elegant, and underratedIf you’re a fan of quiet luxury, let us tell you that this whisky is just for you. The whiskey is double-aged, meaning the blend is matured once and then aged again to allow all the different flavors to surface effortlesslyThe result? A perfectly velvety, well-rounded scotch with notes of honey, toffee, vanilla, and a hint of spice. It’s a whisky that doesn’t shout but speaks with confidence, grace, and poise. Plus, with that golden amber color shining through the bottle, you’ll hardly be able to resist picking up this bottle from the duty-free shelves. Perfect For: Those who enjoy refined, smooth blends that aren’t too smoky or overpowering.Price: INR 5650 at Mumbai Duty-FreeAlso Read: Booze And Baarish: 5 Whiskies That Taste Better In The Rain
ABV: 40%Why Buy It: It’s royalty in a bottle – that’s itIt isn’t every day that you see a whisky so special and significant, so if you spot it decorated on the shelf of a duty-free store, pick it up in an instant. Created by the Chivas Brothers to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, this blend is only made from whiskies that are aged at least 21 years. The liquid inside is noble, elegant, and just sophisticated enough to make you feel like one of the royalty. The ceramic decanter is equally eye-catching, with its jewel-toned ruby, emerald, and sapphire standing out like the Crown itself.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Royal Whiskey (@royalwhiskeylb)
Take a sip and you’ll be elated with the rich floral aromas, sweet pear, dried fruit, and citrus. The very first sip gives you rich orange marmalade and poached pear, while subsequent sips open up to warm spices, hazelnuts, and a touch of smokiness. The finish is warm and regal – just how you’d expect a 21-year-old blend to be – and one of the best whisky brands to buy duty-free in Mumbai and Delhi.Perfect For: Milestone gifts, collector’s shelves, or impressing someone who truly knows their whisky.Price: INR 19592 at Mumbai Duty-Free
Buying whisky at duty-free isn’t just about getting a deal – it’s about bringing home a story packed in a bottle. These whisky brands to buy duty-free in Mumbai and Delhi. Whether it’s the charm of Ardmore or the smooth distinctness of Dewar’s 15 YO, each of these whiskies offers something unique to your travel experience. So, which one of these are you picking up the next time you’re at the duty-free in Mumbai and Delhi airports?
