Top 15 Best Whisky Brands in India To Try [August, 2024]

India is known for its diverse culture, rich history, and a wide variety of whiskey brands that cater to different tastes and preferences. From smooth and mellow to bold and robust, there’s a whiskey for every palate. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best whiskey brands in India and what makes them stand out from the rest.

How to Choose The Best Whisky Brands?

Choosing the best whisky brands can be subjective and varies based on individual preferences. Here are some general tips that can help you make an informed decision:

• Taste Preference: You can choose your poison based on your taste preferences; available options range from smoky and spicy to sweeter, smoother ones.
• Based on Whisky Mash Bill: You should also be aware of the ingredients that go into making the flavour palette of your favourite whisky. Using corn and rye gives hints of spices and caramel in your whisky, while the mash bill gives the exact details of the ingredients and the composition of your whisky.
• Price Range: You can narrow down your choices by looking at the affordability and quality of the product. Blender’s Pride and Black Dog Reserve are some of the best options available when on a tight budget.
• Brand Performance: Reliable brands come with the guarantee of consistent, credible whisky and thus become an ideal bet. Looking into the brand’s reputation and checking out customer reviews would help you narrow down your preferences for which whisky you should invest in.

Best Whisky Brands in India

We have curated a list of best-selling top whisky brands in India from many options so that you can make informed decisions in your whisky purchasing spree.

1. Black Dog Reserve

Black Dog Reserve is a premium whiskey brand that has been a favourite among whiskey enthusiasts in India for decades. The brand is known for its smooth, well-balanced flavour profile that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of smokiness. Black Dog Reserve is aged for a minimum of 12 years, which contributes to its rich, complex taste.

One of the drawbacks of Black Dog Reserve is its limited availability, as it is often in high demand. Additionally, the brand’s premium pricing may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.

Pricing: ₹2500 – ₹4000

2. Ballantine’s

Ballantine’s is a Scottish whiskey brand that has gained popularity in India due to its smooth, easy-drinking character. The brand offers a range of expressions, including the Ballantine’s Finest, which is a blend of 50 different malt and grain whiskies, and the Ballantine’s 12 Year Old, which is aged for a minimum of 12 years.

What sets Ballantine’s apart is its consistency and affordability. The brand offers a reliable, high-quality whiskey experience at a reasonable price point. However, some whiskey enthusiasts may find Ballantine’s flavour profile to be a bit too mild or generic compared to other brands.

Pricing: ₹3000 – ₹5000

3. Jack Daniel’s

Jack Daniel’s is an iconic American whiskey brand that has gained a loyal following in India. The brand is known for its smooth, sweet flavour profile that combines notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of oak. Jack Daniel’s is made using a unique charcoal mellowing process, which contributes to its distinctive taste.

One of the benefits of Jack Daniel’s is its versatility. The whiskey can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails. However, some whiskey purists may find the brand’s flavour profile to be too sweet or lacking in complexity compared to other premium whiskeys.

Pricing: ₹3000 – ₹5000

4. Amrut

Amrut is a homegrown Indian whiskey brand that has gained international recognition for its exceptional quality and unique flavors. Made from locally sourced malted barley and aged in oak barrels, Amrut whiskeys are known for their rich, complex taste profiles. The brand offers a range of expressions, including the Amrut Fusion, which combines Indian and Scottish malts, and the Amrut Peated, which features a smoky, peaty character.

What sets Amrut apart is its commitment to using high-quality ingredients and traditional distillation methods. The result is a whiskey that can rival some of the best scotches in the world. However, Amrut whiskeys can be on the pricier side compared to other Indian brands.

Pricing: ₹3000 – ₹6000

5. Rampur

Rampur Single Malt is a relatively new entrant in the Indian whiskey market, but it has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional quality and unique flavor profile. Made from 100% Indian malted barley and aged in ex-bourbon barrels, Rampur Single Malt offers a rich, complex taste that combines notes of honey, vanilla, and spice.

What sets Rampur Single Malt apart is its use of traditional Indian distillation methods and locally sourced ingredients. The brand’s commitment to craftsmanship and attention to detail is evident in every sip. However, Rampur Single Malt’s premium pricing may not be accessible to all whiskey enthusiasts.

Pricing: ₹3500 – ₹5500

6. Chivas Regal

Chivas Regal 12 Year is a classic blended Scotch whisky that has been a favorite among whisky lovers in India for generations. The brand is known for its smooth, rich flavor profile that combines notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of smokiness. Chivas Regal 12 Year is aged for a minimum of 12 years, which contributes to its complex, well-balanced taste.

One of the benefits of Chivas Regal 12 Year is its consistency and reliability. The brand offers a high-quality whisky experience that is suitable for a variety of occasions, from casual sipping to formal celebrations. However, some whisky enthusiasts may find the brand’s flavor profile to be a bit too mild or generic compared to other premium blends.

Pricing: ₹2500 – ₹4000

7. Blenders Pride

Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection is a premium Indian whisky brand that has gained a loyal following among discerning whisky enthusiasts. The brand is known for its rich, complex flavour profile that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice. Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its unique taste.

What sets Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection apart is its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The brand uses a meticulous blending process to create a whisky that is smooth, well-balanced, and full of character. However, Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection’s premium pricing may not be suitable for those on a tight budget.

Pricing: ₹1200 – ₹2000

8. Royal Challenge

Royal Challenge is a popular Indian whisky brand that has been a favorite among casual drinkers and whisky enthusiasts alike. The brand is known for its smooth, easy-drinking flavor profile that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of fruitiness. Royal Challenge is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its approachable taste.

One of the benefits of Royal Challenge is its affordability and availability. The brand offers a reliable, high-quality whisky experience at a reasonable price point, making it a popular choice for everyday sipping. However, some whisky purists may find Royal Challenge’s flavor profile to be a bit too mild or lacking in complexity compared to other premium brands.

Pricing: ₹500-₹1500

9. McDowell’s No.1 Platinum

McDowell’s No.1 Platinum is a premium Indian whisky brand that has gained a loyal following among discerning whisky enthusiasts. The brand is known for its rich, complex flavour profile that combines notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of smokiness. McDowell’s No.1 Platinum is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its unique taste.

What sets McDowell’s No.1 Platinum apart is its commitment to quality and consistency. The brand uses a meticulous blending process to create a whisky that is smooth, well-balanced, and full of character. However, McDowell’s No.1 Platinum’s premium pricing may not be accessible to all whisky enthusiasts.

Pricing: ₹600-₹1200

10. Antiquity Blue

Antiquity Blue is a premium Indian whisky brand that has gained a reputation for its smooth, mellow flavour profile. The brand is known for its rich, complex taste that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of fruitiness. Antiquity Blue is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its unique character.

One of the benefits of Antiquity Blue is its versatility. The whisky can be enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or in a variety of cocktails. However, some whisky enthusiasts may find Antiquity Blue’s flavour profile to be a bit too mild or lacking in complexity compared to other premium brands.

Pricing: ₹1500-₹2500

11. Imperial Blue

Imperial Blue is a popular Indian whisky brand that has been a favourite among casual drinkers and whisky enthusiasts alike. The brand is known for its smooth, easy-drinking flavour profile that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of smokiness. Imperial Blue is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its approachable taste.

One of the benefits of Imperial Blue is its affordability and availability. The brand offers a reliable, high-quality whisky experience at a reasonable price point, making it a popular choice for everyday sipping. However, some whisky purists may find Imperial Blue’s flavour profile to be a bit too mild or lacking in complexity compared to other premium brands.

Pricing: ₹400-₹800

12. Bagpiper

Bagpiper is a classic Indian whisky brand that has been a favorite among casual drinkers and whisky enthusiasts for generations. The brand is known for its bold, robust flavor profile that combines notes of spice, oak, and a hint of smokiness. Bagpiper is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its distinctive taste.

One of the benefits of Bagpiper is its affordability and availability. The brand offers a reliable, high-quality whisky experience at a reasonable price point, making it a popular choice for everyday sipping. However, some whisky enthusiasts may find Bagpiper’s flavor profile to be a bit too bold or lacking in complexity compared to other premium brands.

Pricing: ₹300-₹600

13. Hayward’s Fine Whisky

Hayward’s Fine Whisky is a premium Indian whisky brand that has gained a reputation for its smooth, well-balanced flavour profile. The brand is known for its rich, complex taste that combines notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Hayward’s Fine Whisky is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its unique character.

What sets Hayward’s Fine Whisky apart is its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The brand uses a meticulous blending process to create a whisky that is smooth, well-balanced, and full of character. However, Hayward’s Fine Whisky’s premium pricing may not be accessible to all whisky enthusiasts.

Pricing: ₹200-₹400

14. Officer’s Choice

Officer’s Choice is a popular Indian whisky brand that has been a favorite among casual drinkers and whisky enthusiasts alike. The brand is known for its smooth, easy-drinking flavour profile that combines notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of fruitiness. Officer’s Choice is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its approachable taste.

One of the benefits of Officer’s Choice is its affordability and availability. The brand offers a reliable, high-quality whisky experience at a reasonable price point, making it a popular choice for everyday sipping. However, some whisky purists may find Officer’s Choice’s flavor profile to be a bit too mild or lacking in complexity compared to other premium brands.

Pricing: ₹100-₹250

15. Diplomat Deluxe Whisky

Diplomat Deluxe is a premium Indian whisky brand that has gained a reputation for its rich, complex flavor profile. The brand is known for its smooth, well-balanced taste that combines notes of honey, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Diplomat Deluxe is made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which contributes to its unique character.

What sets Diplomat Deluxe apart is its commitment to quality and consistency. The brand uses a meticulous blending process to create a whisky that is smooth, well-balanced, and full of character. However, Diplomat Deluxe’s premium pricing may not be accessible to all whisky enthusiasts.

Pricing: ₹150-₹300

Bonus Content: The Top Whiskey Glasses to Buy on Amazon

Searching for the perfect whiskey glasses to upgrade your home bar? With so many options on Amazon, it can be hard to decide. After researching the highest rated whiskey glasses, here are my top picks for tumblers that will impress any whiskey connoisseur.

1. PrimeWorld Diamond Crystal Cut Whiskey Glasses

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With over 2,000 positive reviews, these elegant whiskey glasses are a customer favorite. The set of 6 tumblers feature a diamond cut design that makes drinks sparkle. Savor whiskey, bourbon, and cocktails in style with these timeless glasses.

2. TIENER Fashioned Whiskey Glasses

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For a modern angled look, check out these fashioned whiskey glasses from TIENER. Sold in a set of 6, the glasses have a heavy base and cleanly tapered lines. With a 4.3 star rating, reviewers love these multipurpose tumblers for serving whiskey, wine, cocktails and more.

3. SYANKA Italian Crystal Whiskey Glasses

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Treat yourself to the brilliance of these Italian crystal whiskey glasses. The handmade quality and clarity of the crystal makes them a stunning upgrade. Keep a set on hand for entertaining or giving premium gifts.

4. TheYaYaCafe Personalized Whiskey Glasses

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Add a personalized touch with these customizable engraved whiskey glasses. Choose from fun sayings like “World’s Best Brother” or add your own text. Each glass comes with a matching coaster for a complete gift set.

5. Greenline Goods Fishing Whiskey Glasses

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For the fisherman or outdoor enthusiast, this unique set depicts freshwater and saltwater fish right on the glass. It’s a fun way to celebrate hobbies. The set of 2 glasses have great reviews. Whiskey just tastes better in a proper glass. Try one of these top-rated options from Amazon to elevate your drinking experience. Your favorite whiskey or bourbon will shine when sipped from the right tumbler.

FAQs about Best Whisky Brands in India

Q. What makes Indian whiskey different from other whiskeys?

Indian whiskey is typically made using a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts, which gives it a unique flavor profile that is different from other whiskeys. Indian whiskeys also tend to be smoother and more approachable than some other whiskeys, making them a popular choice for casual drinkers and whisky enthusiasts alike.

Q. What is the best Indian whiskey for beginners?

For beginners, it’s best to start with a smooth, easy-drinking whisky that isn’t too bold or complex. Some good options include Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection, Royal Challenge, and Officer’s Choice. These brands offer a reliable, high-quality whisky experience at a reasonable price point, making them a great choice for those just starting to explore the world of whisky.

Q. What is the most expensive Indian whiskey?

The most expensive Indian whiskey is the Amrut Greedy Angels 12 Year Old, which retails for around $1,000 per bottle. This limited edition whisky is made using a blend of Indian malted barley and is aged for 12 years in oak barrels, resulting in a rich, complex flavor profile that is highly sought after by whisky collectors and enthusiasts.

Q. What is the best Indian whiskey for sipping neat?

For sipping neat, it’s best to choose a whisky that has a rich, complex flavor profile that can be fully appreciated without any mixers or ice. Some good options include Amrut Fusion, Rampur Single Malt, and Paul John Classic Select Cask. These brands offer a high-quality whisky experience that is perfect for savoring slowly and appreciating the nuances of the flavor.

Q. What is the best Indian whiskey for cocktails?

For cocktails, it’s best to choose a whisky that has a smooth, versatile flavor profile that can complement a variety of mixers and ingredients. Some good options include Ballantine’s Finest, Jack Daniel’s, and McDowell’s No.1 Platinum. These brands offer a reliable, high-quality whisky experience that is perfect for mixing into a variety of classic and contemporary cocktails.

Conclusion

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is not intended for use by individuals under the legal drinking age. Alcohol consumption causes serious health risks and should not be initiated or continued by anyone unable to legally purchase or consume alcohol. Consult your physician before making any changes to your lifestyle or health practices. HappyCredit does not recommend or endorse the use or overuse of alcohol. Please drink responsibly.