Irish whisky has a huge following in India thanks to its smooth, versatile and layered flavours. Whether you are a whisky connoisseur or just starting to explore the world of spirits, Irish whisky offers a unique experience with its triple distillation process which gives it a lightness and refinement.
Unlike some of its peers, Irish whisky is less smoky and more approachable, so it is a great choice for all palates.
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In recent years Irish whisky brands have made their way to India and whisky lovers can now taste Ireland’s centuries-old distilling traditions. From the iconic Jameson to the rich complex notes of Redbreast, these brands capture the essence of Irish craftsmanship.
With these premium spirits now available in India, Indian whisky drinkers can now try new flavours whether they drink it neat, on the rocks or in a cocktail like the classic Irish Coffee
Here are some of the best Irish whisky brands in India for you to try.
Bushmills
One of the oldest distilleries in the world (1608) with a history that speaks for itself when it comes to quality and tradition. Smooth, and balanced with notes of vanilla and honey, you can enjoy it neat or in cocktails. The distillery in Northern Ireland has a special place in the whisky world. In India, Bushmills Original is available at select stores, in major hubs like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, with prices ranging from ₹3,500 to ₹4,000 for a 700ml bottle.
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Jameson
A household name in Irish whisky, Jameson is known for its smooth, approachable taste with notes of spice, vanilla and nuts. Founded by John Jameson in 1780, this brand was instrumental in putting Irish whisky back on the global map. Jameson’s triple distillation process gives a refined and mellow profile, perfect for mixing or sipping neat. Jameson is available in cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata. The price is in the range of ₹2,500 to ₹3,000 for a 750ml bottle.
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Teeling
A modern Irish whisky brand is known for its bold and innovative approach with flavours of dried fruits, spice and malt. Founded in 2015, Teeling carries the legacy of the Teeling family’s whisky-making roots dating back to 1782. Famous for cask finishes, Teeling has helped revive Dublin’s whisky-making tradition. In India Teeling is available at select premium stores in, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Goa. it is priced between ₹5,000-₹6,000 for a 700ml bottle depending on the variant.
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Hinch
Hinch is a new player in the whisky world, creamy and smooth with notes of vanilla, toffee and orchard fruits. Founded in 2016 in Northern Ireland, Hinch blends traditional whisky-making with modern innovation. Their 5-Year-Old Double Wood whisky, aged in bourbon and American oak barrels adds an extra layer of richness. Hinch whisky is available in major cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. The price of this whisky is from ₹5,500 to ₹6,500 for a 700ml bottle.
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Glendalough
Glendalough is a unique Irish whisky with smooth and balanced flavours of stone fruits, cinnamon and oak. Founded in 2011 and inspired by Ireland’s ancient monastic distilling traditions, Glendalough has a deep connection to Irish heritage. Glendalough Double Barrel, aged in bourbon and Oloroso sherry casks is complex and refined. In India, this whisky is available in premium liquor stores in Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata and Goa. The cost falls between ₹4,500 to ₹5,500 for a 700ml bottle.
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Method and Madness
Method and Madness is an experimental Irish whisky brand that breaks the rules of traditional whisky making. Launched in 2017 by Midleton Distillery, it brings together the expertise of master distillers with a new and innovative approach. Their Single Grain Irish whisky, aged in bourbon barrels and finished in Spanish oak is a sweet and spicy blend. Method and Madness is available in select Indian stores in Pune, Mumbai, Delhi and Goa. The 700ml bottle costs between ₹6,000 to ₹7,000.
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Dingle
Dingle is a whisky from Ireland’s west coast and is known for its full-bodied character with dark fruit, caramel and spice. Founded in 2012 Dingle Distillery is a leader in the revival of independent Irish whisky distilling and specialises in small-batch, artisanal production. Their Single Malt is a blend of bourbon, sherry and port casks and is full of depth and complexity. Available in India at high-end liquor stores in Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai and Hyderabad. The bottle of 700ml is priced between ₹8,000 to ₹9,000.