The Best Whisky Brands in India To Try [December, 2023]

India is known for many things, from its colourful culture and delicious cuisine to its bustling cities and scenic landscapes. But did you know India is also home to a thriving whisky industry? While most people associate whisky with Scotland or Ireland, India has unique and flavorful whisky brands that are well worth trying. We will explore some of the best whisky brands on the market today. From the classic flavors of Amrut to the innovative blends of Rampur, there’s something for every whisky lover to discover. So sit back, pour yourself a glass, and read on through the world of Indian whisky brands.

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 Blended Scotch Whisky is a premium whisky from Scotland well-known for its smooth, rich taste and exceptional quality. The whisky is made using a blend of handpicked malt and grain whiskies and has been aged to finesse in oak casks. It is a true connoisseur’s whisky that is perfect for special occasions.

Ratings: 4.1/5

Reviews: “A perfect blend of smokiness and smoothness. The rich aroma makes this a delightful sipping whisky.”

Pros:

• Recipient of several notable awards acknowledging quality in whisky brands
• The smooth and rich taste is perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks
• Wide availability in India makes it a convenient choice

Cons:

• Slightly more expensive than other blends in the segment
• Finish could be longer and more complex

Pricing: ₹2500 – ₹4000

2. Ballantine’s

Ballantine’s is a premium blended Scotch whisky that whisky connoisseurs worldwide have enjoyed for over 180 years. Ballantine’s is a popular choice in India due to its smooth and balanced taste, with aromatic honey and a hint of vanilla and smoke. Ballantine’s is a reliable and classic whisky that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Ratings: 4.5/5

Reviews: “A perfectly balanced blend with a smooth honeyed flavor. Great for sipping or mixing cocktails.”

Pros:

• Its reputation as a well-established brand adds to its demand
• Ballantine’s 12-years-aged blended scotch whisky is a classic and reliable choice
• Perfect for a mixed cocktail or even on the rocks

Cons:

• Price is slightly on the higher side
• Finish could be longer and more complex

Pricing: ₹3000 – ₹5000

3. Jack Daniel’s

Unlike its Scottish contemporaries, Jack Daniel’s is a popular American whisky that has gained a loyal following in India over the years. The whisky is known for its distinctive flavour profile achieved through a unique combination of corn, rye, and barley malt distilled and aged in charred oak barrels. JD is characterised by its rich amber colour and a complex flavour profile with vanilla, caramel, and oak notes.

Ratings: 4.3/5

Reviews: “Jack Daniels has that unmistakable charcoal filtered smoothness. Great straight up or in cocktails.”

Pros:

• Its quality and consistency have helped it gain a strong foothold
• A strong marketing presence in India makes it highly desirable
• It has a smooth, rich, complex flavor profile that appeals to whisky lovers

Cons:

• It’s an imported brand, so can be pricier than domestic options
• Not as widely available in smaller towns and rural areas

Pricing: ₹3000 – ₹5000

4. Amrut

As India’s first single malt whisky, Amrut has also made a name for itself in the international market. Its use of quality ingredients like fruit, honey, and spices, combined with a unique ageing process in wooden casks, makes Amrut Whisky stand out in the Indian market.

Ratings: 4.8/5

Reviews: “Amrut’s complex and unique flavors make it a world class single malt. A must try for whisky enthusiasts.”

Pros:

• First single malt whisky produced in India
• Amrut Fusion’s fine blended whisky from India and Scotland makes it truly international

Cons:

• More expensive than blended whiskies
• Limited availability in small towns

Pricing: ₹3000 – ₹6000

5. Rampur

Among the whisky brands mentioned throughout the list, Rampur Single Malt Whisky is a relatively new entrant to the market, but it has quickly gained a reputation for being a class apart when it comes to single malt whiskies. Made using malted barley and ingredients sourced from the Himalayas, aged for years in oak barrels. The resulting whisky has a smooth and mellow flavour with caramel, vanilla, and dried fruit notes.

Ratings: 4.7/5

Reviews: “Rampur has a wonderfully complex and elegant flavor for a single malt. The Himalayan ingredients give it a unique taste.”

Pros:

• One of the best go-to whisky brands available in the single malt whisky section.
• Unique taste and flavor owing to ingredients sourced from the Himalayas
• Made by hand and aged in the Himalayan mountains

Cons:

• Relatively new brand so less easily available
• Slightly more expensive than other Indian single malts

Pricing: ₹3500 – ₹5500

6. Chivas Regal

Chivas Regal stands out from other whisky brands in its smooth and mellow flavour. The creamy after-taste with notes of pineapple is widely appreciated by many whisky lovers, making it a well-established brand of blended Scotch whisky in India and internationally.

Ratings: 4.2/5

Reviews: “Chivas Regal has that velvety smoothness paired with fruity flavors that makes it perfect for sipping.”

Pros:

• It is recognized worldwide and is one of the best blends available in whiskies
• Several options are available, like the 12/18/25-year-old blends
• Affordable rates make it a great whisky option for parties

Cons:

• Less complexity and depth of flavor compared to single malts
• Imported, so higher pricing than domestic blends

Pricing: ₹2500 – ₹4000

7. Blenders Pride

Blenders Pride is one of the best-marketed whisky brands out there. The brand’s celebrity endorsement has put BP a league ahead of its contemporaries in the whisky market. It is known for its smooth taste after blending local and imported ingredients. The whisky is also aged for at least three years, allowing the flavours to mature and develop.

Ratings: 4/5

Reviews: “Great blended whisky for the price. Smooth taste works well in cocktails.”

Pros:

• It is also one of the most affordable whisky brands available here.
• BP has won several awards to testify to the quality and taste of its whisky, besides its reasonable rates.

Cons:

• Less complexity compared to premium blends
• Brand recognition is still building in smaller towns

Pricing: ₹1200 – ₹2000

8. Royal Challenge

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 3.9/5

Price: ₹500-₹1500

Key Features:

• Iconic Indian whisky brand
• Smooth, easy drinking blend
• Hints of malt and vanilla

Reviews: “Royal Challenge is a go-to for an easy-drinking whisky with nice flavor.”

9. McDowell’s No.1 Platinum

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 3.8/5

Price: ₹600-₹1200

Key Features:

• Refined, premium Indian blend
• Mix of grain spirits and matured malts
• Light and smooth taste

Reviews: “McDowell’s No.1 Platinum delivers a clean, easy-drinking experience with nice spice.”

10. Antiquity Blue

Category: Blended Scotch

Ratings: 3.7/5

Price: ₹1500-₹2500

Key Features:

• Made from rare Scotch grains
• Sweet and smooth blend
• Hints of honey and spices

Reviews: “Antiquity Blue has a pleasant sweetness that makes it very easy to drink.”

11. Imperial Blue

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 3.5/5

Price: ₹400-₹800

Key Features:

• Best selling whisky in India
• Smooth blend of malts and spirits
• Approachable and affordable

Reviews: “For a budget whisky, Imperial Blue has a nice mellow flavor and goes down easy.”

12. Bagpiper

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 3.4/5

Price: ₹300-₹600

Key Features:

• One of the oldest whisky brands
• Distinct malty aroma with earthy notes
• Extremely affordable

Reviews: “It’s very inexpensive and gets the job done, but Bagpiper lacks complexity in flavor.”

13. Hayward’s Fine Whisky

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 3.2/5

Price: ₹200-₹400

Key Features:

• Bottom-shelf budget whisky
• Strong alcohol flavor
• Mixes well in cocktails

Reviews: “Hayward’s is harsh and one-dimensional, but works fine as a mixer whisky.”

14. Officer’s Choice

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 3/5

Price: ₹100-₹250

Key Features:

• Among the cheapest whiskies
• Known for high alcohol content
• Popular in rural areas

Reviews: “As a dirt-cheap whisky, Officer’s Choice gets the job done, but has an extremely rough flavor.”

15. Diplomat Deluxe Whisky

Category: Indian Blended

Ratings: 2.8/5

Price: ₹150-₹300

Key Features:

• Bottom-shelf budget whisky
• Very low complexity or smoothness
• Mainly used as mixer

Reviews: “Diplomat Deluxe tastes harsh with an overly strong alcohol flavor. Only passable when mixed.”

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.

To Sum Up

The Indian whisky market has grown significantly in recent years, with various domestic and international brands vying for consumers’ attention. The rise of premium and super-premium whisky brands in India has shifted consumer preferences towards higher quality and more sophisticated whiskies like the ones we mentioned in the list curated for you above. So you can go ahead and pick out the best of the lot!

FAQs about Best Whisky Brands in India

Q. What Is the best whisky brand in recent times?

Amrut, the Indian luxury single malt whisky brand, has been hailed as one of the top whisky brands in India

Q. Which whisky is the party favourite this season?

Amrut, Ballantine’s, Teachers, Jack Daniels, and Johnnie Walker are absolute crowd-favourites.

Q. Which is the best whisky option when it comes to affordability?

Blenders Pride is the perfect blend of taste and affordability and will leave you craving more.

Q. Which is the strongest whisky option in the given recommendations?

Amrut, Ballantine’s and Chivas Regal all have very high alcohol by volume (abv) and are perfect for drinking neat or on the rocks.

Q. What are some premium whisky brands available in India?

Some of the premium whisky brands available in India include Amrut, Glenfiddich 12, Black Dog Reserve, Ballantine’s, Jack Daniel’s, Rampur, and Chivas Regal 12 Year. These brands are known for their complex flavors, smooth taste, high quality, and premium branding. Premium whiskies like single malts and aged Scotch whiskies tend to be pricier but offer an elevated drinking experience.

Q. Which are the top Indian whisky brands?

Some of the top Indian whisky brands are Amrut, Rampur, Blender’s Pride Reserve Collection, Royal Challenge, McDowell’s No.1 Platinum, Imperial Blue, Bagpiper, Hayward’s Fine Whisky, Officer’s Choice and Diplomat Deluxe. Both single malt and blended whiskies from Indian distillers are becoming popular. Brands like Amrut and Rampur are competing internationally while others offer smooth easy-drinking options on a budget.

Q. What are some popular single malt whisky brands from India?

The most popular Indian single malt whisky brands are Amrut and Rampur. Amrut Fusion is India’s first single malt whisky, known for its complex yet balanced flavor profile. Rampur is also gaining a reputation for its smooth, mellow flavor made from Himalayan ingredients. Other Indian distillers like Paul John and Solan No. 1 also produce single malt whiskies.

Q. Which international whisky brands are available in India?

Some international whisky brands available in the Indian market are Ballantine’s, Jack Daniel’s, Johnnie Walker, Chivas Regal, The Glenlivet, Jameson, Glenfiddich, and Talisker. These Scotch, Irish, American and other imported whiskies give Indian consumers access to famous global brands with rich flavors and heritage.

Q. What are some examples of blended whisky brands in India?

Major blended whisky brands popular in India include Black Dog, Ballantine’s, Royal Challenge, McDowell’s No. 1 Platinum, Antiquity Blue, Imperial Blue, Bagpiper, Hayward’s Fine Whisky, Officer’s Choice and Diplomat Deluxe. These whiskies blend malts, grains, and spirits to create smooth, easy-drinking liqueurs catering to Indian tastes.

Q. Which imported whisky brands are available in India?

Some imported whisky brands available in the Indian market are Johnnie Walker, The Glenlivet, Glenfiddich, Chivas Regal, Jameson, Jack Daniel’s, Glenmorangie, Talisker, Ballantine’s, and Dewar’s White Label. These include leading Scotch, Irish and American whiskies that offer unique imported flavors and heritage.

Q. What is considered the best whisky in Bangalore?

Amrut is arguably the best whisky brand from Bangalore. Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky was the first single malt whisky from India, launched in Bangalore by Amrut Distilleries. Amrut is renowned for its complex yet well-balanced flavor profile and regularly receives high accolades, cementing its status as a world-class whisky from Bangalore.

Q. Which whisky brands are considered smooth in India?

Some whisky brands popular for their smooth taste in India include Black Dog Centenary, Ballantine’s 12 Year Old, Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, Amrut Fusion, Glenfiddich 12 Year Old, and Chivas Regal 12 Year Old. These whiskies blend premium ingredients and careful aging to create refined, mellow flavors that go down easy. Smooth whiskies are great for sipping and easier on the palate.

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