As you consider the reputation of India’s finest whiskies, you may explore the top five Indian whiskies and their distilleries. Whether you are a young enthusiast or a savvy dinker, this article will show you a glimpse of India you may not know. After all, one of the best reflections of a culture is its whiskies.
India may be famous for its spices, curry, and Bollywood, but did you know it’s also one of the world’s top producers of whisky? In recent years, Indian whiskies have wowed experts and fans all over the globe. Let’s take a closer look at the five most celebrated Indian whiskies, the distilleries behind them, their stories, and how they’ve made their mark on the world.
1. Amrut Fusion Single Malt
Distillery: Amrut Distilleries
Amrut Fusion Single Malt is often the first name that pops up when talking about Indian whisky. This whisky mixes Indian barley with Scottish peated barley, “fusing” two traditions into one bottle.
History of Amrut Distilleries
Amrut Distilleries was founded in 1948 in Bangalore, just after India gained independence. The name “Amrut” means “nectar of the gods” in Sanskrit. For many years, Amrut focused on making brandy and rum, but in the early 2000s, they started producing single malt whisky. Their goal was simple: create a whisky that could stand up to the best in the world.
“Founded in 1948 in Bangalore, India, is renowned for its single malt whisky, notably “Amrut Indian Single Malt.” The distillery’s innovative aging has garnered international acclaim and awards.” Amrut
International Presence
Amrut first made headlines in 2010 when its Fusion Single Malt was named the third best whisky in the world by famous whisky writer Jim Murray. Since then, Amrut whiskies have been exported to dozens of countries, including the UK, the US, and Europe.
Awards
Amrut Fusion Single Malt has won many awards, such as:
- World Whisky of the Year (2014)
- Best Indian Single Malt (multiple years)
- Gold medals at international competitions in London and San Francisco
2. Paul John Edited Single Malt – India’s Finest Whiskies
Distillery: John Distilleries
Paul John Edited is a unique single malt whisky. It’s made using Indian six-row barley and a touch of peated Scottish barley, giving it a smoky flavor.
History of John Distilleries
John Distilleries started in 1996 in Goa, a beautiful state on India’s west coast. It was founded by Paul P. John, whose vision was to make top-quality spirits. At first, the company made brandy and blended whiskies, but in 2012, they launched their single malt whiskies and quickly gained international attention.
“Different people represent different choices and different tastes. The wide range of brands of John Distilleries reflects an understanding of the varied preferences of the customer, the determination to maintain the impeccable quality of each product and the drive to be continuously innovative.” John Distillery
International Presence
Paul John whiskies are now sold in more than 40 countries, including the US, UK, France, and Australia. Their distillery has been featured in travel magazines and whisky guides around the world.
Awards
Paul John Edited has earned several honors, including:
- Gold Medal at the Spirits Selection by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles
- Liquid Gold Award in Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible
- Best Asian Whisky at Whisky Magazine Awards
3. Rampur Indian Single Malt
Distillery: Radico Khaitan
Rampur Single Malt comes from the foothills of the Himalayas. Its smooth and fruity taste is loved by experts and casual drinkers alike.
History of Radico Khaitan
Radico Khaitan is one of India’s oldest spirits companies, established in 1943. The company started with making industrial alcohol and then branched into spirits, especially whisky. Rampur whisky is named after the town of Rampur, where the distillery sits surrounded by mango orchards.
“Radico Khaitan Ltd., one of the largest homegrown alco-bev companies, continues its winning streak on the global stage. In a stellar achievement for Indian whisky, Rampur Jugalbandi #6 has been named Best World Single Malt at the prestigious John Barleycorn Awards 2025, USA.” Business Wire India
International Presence
Rampur whiskies are exported widely and can be found in Europe, North America, and even Japan. The brand is often featured at international festivals and tastings.
Awards
Rampur Single Malt has picked up:
- Double Gold at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition
- Best Indian Single Malt Whisky (various years)
- Gold at the Monde Selection
4. Solan No. 1 – India’s Finest Whiskies
Distillery: Mohan Meakin Distillery
Solan No. 1 has a lighter taste and is one of India’s oldest and most respected whiskies.
History of Mohan Meakin Distillery
The history of Mohan Meakin goes all the way back to the 1850s when Edward Dyer, a British entrepreneur, set up Asia’s first brewery in the Himalayan foothills. The company later merged with H.G. Meakin & Co. and started focusing on whisky. Solan No. 1 is named after the town of Solan in Himachal Pradesh.
“The Company’s remarkable performance is not limited to liquor; its business interests are manifold. Turning foresight into reality is the Fruit juices, Breakfast Foods, Mineral Water, and Glass Factory – a strategic diversification to further reinforce its business interests.” Mohan Meakin
International Presence
While Mohan Meakin exports to some countries, Solan No. 1 is not as widely recognized internationally as some of the other Indian whiskies. However, the distillery itself is famous for its Old Monk rum, which is an international cult favorite.
Awards
Solan No. 1 has received prestigious medals at Indian and Asian competitions, earning respect for its quality and consistency over decades.
5. Officer’s Choice Blue – India’s Finest Whiskies
Distillery: Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD)
Officer’s Choice Blue is one of the top-selling whiskies in the world, known for its smoothness and affordability.
History of Allied Blenders & Distillers
ABD was founded in 1988 by Kishore Chhabria. The company aimed to make high-quality spirits at affordable prices. Officer’s Choice Blue, launched in 2011, has become a favorite not only in India but also in several overseas markets.
“Allied Blenders And Distillers Limited (ABDL) is the 3rd largest Indian spirits company. ABD is the only Spirits company in India with two millionaire brands launched in the past five years (CY18 – CY22) with Sterling Reserve Whisky and ICONiQ White Whisky and has 4 millionaire brands in its portfolio.: LinkedIn
International Presence
Officer’s Choice Blue is exported to over 20 countries, including the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. It’s one of India’s best-known whisky brands abroad, especially among Indian communities.
Awards
Officer’s Choice Blue has won:
- Gold Medal at Monde Selection
- Best Indian Whisky in its segment (multiple years)
What Makes Indian India’s Finest Whiskies Special?
Indian whisky often uses locally grown barley and is shaped by the country’s hot climate, which speeds up the aging process. Many distilleries blend Indian and imported grains, and some even use Scottish peat for a smoky flavor. Because of this, Indian whiskies can taste very different from those made in Scotland or the U.S.
Indian Whiskies on the World Stage
Over the last two decades, Indian whiskies have won international awards and gained respect among experts. Brands like Amrut and Paul John have appeared in “top 10” lists and have been reviewed by major magazines and whisky writers.
Conclusion
India’s whisky story is one of growth, creativity, and global ambition. Whether you’re interested in the history of the distilleries, their international reach, or their awards, it’s clear that Indian whisky is now a shining star in the world of spirits. Next time you hear about whisky, remember a lot is happening beyond Scotland and Ireland—India is on the map, and its whiskies are ready to impress!
