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Often just referred to as whisky or Scotch, Scotch whisky is a grain or malt whisky (or a combination of the two) produced in Scotland. The Exchequer Rolls of Scotland from 1494 contains the earliest known written mention of Scotch whisky. Malted barley was once used to make all Scotch whisky. In the latter part of the 18th century, commercial distilleries started to offer whisky manufactured from wheat and rye. Scotland is home to 141 whisky distilleries as of 2022, making Scotch whisky one of the most well-known geographical indicators in the world.
Following distillation, all Scotch whisky must be matured in oak barrels for at least three years. The age of the youngest whisky used to make the product must be reflected in any age statement, expressed in numbers, on a bottle of Scotch whisky. A guaranteed-age whisky is defined as a whisky with an age statement.
A whisky bottle that does not have an age statement is referred to as a no-age statement (NAS) whisky. The only assurance with a NAS whisky bottle is that the whisky within is at least three years old.
The five different classifications of Scotch whisky are blended whisky, blended grain whisky, blended malt whisky (sometimes known as "vatted malt" or "pure malt"), blended whisky, and single malt whisky.
Many Scotch whisky drinkers refer to a dram as a serving size. Whisk comes from the Gaelic uisge beatha or usquebaugh, 'water of life.' Take a look at these five scotch whiskies in India.
Top Best Scotch Whisky In India
Eclipse
Although it may be true that there is nothing new under the sun, there are always things that push the envelope. In the same way that Sula Vineyards Eclipse made headlines in 2017 when it was purported to be a "grape wine-based whisky." This isn't entirely true; Eclipse is distinct but not exactly the suggested wine-whisky synthesis because it blends grain spirit, malt Scotch, and peated malt spirit with a small amount of grape spirit.
Still, it's an indication that Indian whisky makers are very interested in seeing just how far traditional methods can be stretched. Unexpectedly, Eclipse is a smooth, light whisky with a strong fruit-forward flavour. Eclipse is priced at INR 1250 in Delhi.
McDowell's No. 1 Reserve
A blended whisky is enjoyed as much for its accessibility as cost. McDowell's may not be as nuanced as the acclaimed single malts on the market, but it's an easy drinker that is fragrant with dried fruits and spices in the aroma. Swirl the glass, and you'll pick up everything from toasty vanilla and caramel to traces of oak and spice. This is a delicious whisky everyone will enjoy, whether as neat, on the rocks, or as a mixer. Similar to how many rock stars choose Jack Daniels, McDowell's No. 1 Reserve Whisky has grown closely linked to major Bollywood productions. Also, the regular price is INR 750.
Imperial Blue
If it weren't for Pernod Ricard, the whisky's owner, doing some brilliant marketing, one might not even be discussing Imperial Blue. India has outlawed alcohol advertising since 1995, but Pernod Ricard circumvented this law in 2011 by producing and releasing a film they referred to as a feature-length picture, “Men Will Be Men”. It has a bit of caramel and a hint of citrus. You can get 2-litre pint at the cost of INR 2000. Although it can be enjoyed as a sipping whisky, this excellent entry-level blend would be a better substitute for creating Scotch cocktails.
Blue Label Officer's Choice
Officer's Choice Blue Label, a popular blended whisky in a crowded market, was first introduced to the Indian market in 1985. However, it wasn't until a relaunch in the mid-2000s that the brand truly took off. Since then, it has become one of the top whisky brands and carved out a position in the nation's alcohol market. It is priced the same as its competitors. You can get this at INR 750/-. This whisky, a blend of Indian grain spirits, has a powerful aroma from the charred oak barrels it steeps in, a moderate nose, and a grainy finish with a trace of nuttiness. It's also a very good low-cost option to keep on hand for social gatherings.
Indri-Trini Single Malt
The whisky industry is constantly seeking the next big thing, and for many, that would be the peated single malt known as Indri-Trini Single Malt, which has been aged in ex-bourbon, ex-French wine, and PX Sherry. The prices ranges for Haryana: 3,000 INR ; Delhi: 3,700 INR ; Maharashtra: 5,400 INR. Indri-Trini from the House of Piccadily Distilleries. The first sip reveals hints of pineapple, vanilla, black tea, raisins, and honey.
Solan No. 1
Numerous distilleries in the Himalayan Highlands, such as Kasauli Brewery and Distillery, which has been making Solan No. 1 for almost 200 years. The same copper pot stills used when the distillery was established in the middle of the 19th century are still employed in producing what was once the most well-known malt whisky in India. Businessman Edward Abraham Dyer, who was committed to using local ingredients to create a whisky as good as any from Scotland, brought them there. The prices range up to 1500 INR all over India.
Royal Stag Whisky
Simple and smooth, Royal Stag is a mass-market whisky that is also incredibly reasonably priced compared to many other brands. Pernod Rickard is a brand that encompasses a variety of whiskies, this one being well-balanced, sweet on the aroma, and with a hint of wood. Due to its deliciousness and approachability, Royal Stag, which was first introduced to the Indian market in 1995, quickly gained worldwide recognition. There are definite notes of caramel, honey, juicy apples, pears, or other orchard fruits. The whisky has a little vanilla undertone from the oak barrels as it ages. It has the same price range as Solan No. 1.
