India’s alcoholic beverage industry has been experiencing a revolution in recent years, with homegrown brands pushing boundaries and introducing unique spirits that were previously unavailable in the country. From reviving traditional tribal brews to crafting innovative liqueurs, Indian distillers are making their mark on the global stage. If you’re an adventurous drinker looking to explore something beyond the usual whiskey, rum, or vodka, these pioneering Indian spirits deserve a spot on your shelf. Here’s a closer look at five groundbreaking alcohol firsts that are reshaping India’s drinking culture.
La Ananta: India’s Foray into Absinthe
La Ananta is India’s first absinthe, crafted with wormwood and a blend of herbs to deliver a bold herbal punch. Absinthe, often associated with European drinking culture, has now found its Indian counterpart, offering an intense flavor profile for those who enjoy strong, botanical-forward spirits.
- Price: ₹3,200 (750ml, Maharashtra)
Paapi: Asia’s First Coffee-Infused Absinthe
Paapi is an inventive spirit that combines absinthe’s signature anise and herbal notes with the rich, deep flavors of coffee. As Asia’s first coffee-infused absinthe, this unique beverage provides a complex tasting experience with notes of vanilla, caramel, and roasted coffee, making it a must-try for both absinthe lovers and coffee aficionados.
- Price: ₹2,950 (Available in Goa)
Six Brothers Mahura: Reviving a Centuries-Old Tradition
Six Brothers Mahura is India’s first luxury matured Mahura spirit, bringing back a heritage drink enjoyed for centuries by indigenous communities. Crafted by South Seas Distilleries, this spirit is distilled from the Mahura flower (also known as Mahua), a bloom native to India, historically used to make a traditional tribal brew.
- Varieties:
- Six Brothers 1922 Resurrection: Aged in oak barrels for decades, limited to just 102 bottles, featuring an ABV of 40%.
- Six Brothers Small Batch (Original): A more widely available version, double distilled and platinum filtered for a refined taste.
- Price:
- Six Brothers 1922 Resurrection: ₹1,02,000 (Limited Edition)
- Six Brothers Small Batch: ₹2,492 (750ml, Maharashtra)
Quaffine: India’s Premier Cold Brew Coffee Liqueur
For those who enjoy coffee-based spirits, Quaffine is a standout choice. India’s first premium cold brew coffee liqueur is crafted using 100% Arabica beans from Chikmagalur, Karnataka. It offers smooth, rich flavors of coffee, roasted nuts, and a hint of butterscotch, making it a great addition to cocktails or an enjoyable sip on its own.
- Price: ₹1,750 (Goa)
Mikiamo Limoncello: Goa’s Zesty Delight
Bringing a taste of Italy to India, Mikiamo Limoncello is Goa’s first limoncello, made with authentic Italian lemons. This bright and zesty liqueur is perfect for refreshing summer cocktails or as a standalone aperitif.
- Price: ₹1,900 (Goa)
Summing Up
India’s alcohol landscape is evolving rapidly, with distillers crafting spirits that blend tradition with innovation. From tribal-inspired Mahura spirits to coffee-infused absinthe and zesty limoncello, these five groundbreaking beverages showcase the country’s diverse drinking culture. Whether you’re looking for something heritage-driven or an avant-garde concoction, these Indian alcohol firsts offer a unique experience for connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike. So, which one are you grabbing first?
