A Brief Introduction Of Whisky
Whisky is an alcoholic drink made by fermenting and distilling grains like barley, corn, rye, or wheat. The liquid is then aged in wooden barrels, usually made of oak, which gives it its distinct flavour and colour. Whisky is known for its rich, smoky, or spicy taste and is often enjoyed straight, on the rocks (with ice), or as part of a cocktail.
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In India, whisky is enjoyed by many people and is a common choice for social gatherings. Indian whisky brands offer a variety of flavours and styles, catering to different tastes. Whether you prefer a smooth, mellow whisky or one with a bit more spice, there’s likely an Indian whisky that suits your preference. Here below are the top 10 whisky brands in India:
Amrut
Amrut is a prominent Indian whisky brand known for its high-quality single malts. Established in 1948 in Bangalore, Amrut has garnered international acclaim for its rich and complex flavours. The brand offers a range of whiskies like Amrut Amalgam Malt Whisky, Amrut Nativity Indian Single Malt Whisky, Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky Cask Strength, Amrut Peated Single Malt Whisky, and the popular Amrut Fusion, which combines Indian and Scottish malts for a unique taste. The price range for Amrut whiskies varies from around ₹2,000 to ₹10,000, depending on the expression and age. Sizes typically include 750 ml bottles. Amrut is widely available in major cities like Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, and Kolkata.
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Imperial Blue
Launched in 1997, Imperial Blue is a well-loved whisky in India, known for its smooth and easy-drinking profile. This brand, produced by Pernod Ricard, is a blend of Indian grain spirits and imported malt. Its approachable flavour makes it popular among whisky enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Imperial Blue is priced between ₹800 and ₹1,500 for a 750 ml bottle, making it an affordable option. It’s commonly found in cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
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Paul John
Paul John is another celebrated Indian whisky brand, hailing from Goa. Established in 1992, the brand is renowned for its single malts, which are crafted from the finest Indian barley. The Paul John Brilliance and Paul John Edited are particularly well-regarded for their rich and smoky flavours. Prices range from ₹3,500 to ₹7,000 for a 750 ml bottle. Paul John whiskies are available in major cities, including Goa, Mumbai, Delhi, and Bangalore.
Royal Stag
Royal Stag, introduced in 1995, is a popular blended whisky brand produced by Pernod Ricard. Known for its smoothness and affordability, Royal Stag is a blend of imported Scotch malts and Indian grain spirits. It offers a well-balanced flavour profile that appeals to a wide audience. The price for Royal Stag typically ranges from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 for a 750 ml bottle. It is widely available across India, including in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
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Blenders Pride
Blenders Pride, launched in 1995, is a premium blended whisky by Pernod Ricard that combines Scotch malts with Indian grain spirits. It’s celebrated for its smooth texture and sophisticated flavour. The brand’s range includes Blenders Pride Rare Premium and Blenders Pride Reserve Collection. The price for a 750 ml bottle of Blender’s Pride is ₹ 1,450. Blenders Pride is available in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
McDowell's No. 1 Platinum
McDowell's No. 1 Platinum, a popular whisky from United Spirits, is known for its smooth and rich taste. Launched in 1998, this brand is a blend of Scotch malts and Indian grain spirits. It’s favoured for its affordability and quality, with prices ranging from ₹1,200 to ₹2,000 for a 750 ml bottle. McDowell's No. 1 Platinum is widely available in cities including Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.
Chivas Regal
Chivas Regal is a renowned Scotch whisky brand, known for its rich and smooth flavour profile. Although not an Indian-origin brand, it has gained significant popularity in India. Established in 1801, Chivas Regal offers a range of expressions, including the Chivas Regal 12 and Chivas Regal 18. Price of Chivas Regal 12 Years in India: ₹ 3,280 (approx.) for 1 litre Bottle Chivas Regal is available in major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
Officer's Choice
Officer’s Choice is a leading whisky brand in India, known for its affordability and smoothness. Produced by Allied Blenders & Distillers, it’s a blend of Indian grain spirits with a touch of imported malt. Launched in 1988, Officer’s Choice offers a range of whiskies, including Officer’s Choice Blue and Officer’s Choice Rare. The price of Officer's Choice in India is ₹ 600 for 750 ml. It’s widely available across India, including in cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, and Chennai.
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Ballantines
Ballantine’s is a well-known Scotch whisky brand, cherished for its smooth and complex flavours. Established in 1827, Ballantine’s offers a variety of expressions, including Ballantine's 12-Year, Ballantine’s Finest, and Ballantine’s 17. The price for a 750 ml bottle ranges from ₹3,000 to ₹8,000. Despite being a Scotch whisky, Ballantine’s has a strong presence in India and is available in major cities such as Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Kolkata.
Johnnie Walker
Johnnie Walker, a globally recognised Scotch whisky brand, is renowned for its distinctive flavours and blends. Founded in 1820, it offers a range of expressions, including the Johnnie Walker Red Label and the Johnnie Walker Black Label. Prices for a 750ml bottle range from ₹2,500 to ₹10,000. Johnnie Walker is widely available in India, including in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, and Chennai.