Which is the Best Whisky in India?

Posted by Pranay Shelar on March 20th, 2020

“If there’s something you do, we can do it way better!” – This certainly appears to be the attitude of Indian alcohol consumers towards the rest of the world. No wonder then, that India is the largest consumer of whisky in the world! From the most expensive single malts to local economic liquor, the takers for whisky are aplenty in the country.

Indian whisky drinkers have wholeheartedly embraced all the varieties that are up on the offer- Indian whisky, Scotch whisky, Irish whisky, Bourbon whisky, etc. You name it, and you will find loyal supporters! Dare to ask which whisky to opt for and you will find that the list of suggestions is unending.

There is something emboldening and reassuring about a perfect glass of old-fashioned whisky. It adds good-spirited fun to any occasion and helps you unwind after a long tiring day. From Indian-made desi whiskey to the most exquisite single malts, the number of options available has exploded over the past decade or so and we are sure you will find the perfect one among them. So whether you’re looking for an easy sipper on the rocks for the weekend or Bourbon with friends to fit within your budget, we’ve got the perfect bottle for you at Jasmine Wines.

Jasmine Wines - Best Whisky Brands in India

1) The Macallan

The third-largest selling single malt whisky in the world, this is one of the most revered whisky brands in India. With a slight sweetness and some spice carry over, it is creamy with a smoky feel.

2) Glenfiddich 12

It is not the world’s most awarded single malt Scotch whisky for nothing. The fruity aroma and sweet, creamy feel is mild and feels clean on the palate. You don’t have to look far to enjoy this exceptionally fine malt when you can get it easily at Jasmine Wines.

3) Director’s Special Whisky

Director's Special is the whiskey of choice in India due to its richness and matured taste. Made by mixing hand-picked barley and malt, it has a smooth taste complemented by the rich aroma.

4) Amrut

Made out of hand-picked Indian barley from the foothills of the Himalayas with a notable richness of flavour, this is the first Indian single malt whisky. It is splendidly layered with spicy, floral, sweet and toffee notes.

5) Johnnie Walker Blue Label

The most prestigious whiskey by Johnnie Walker, it is blended with the finest aged malt and grain whiskeys. It has a hint of charred oak and rich vanilla cream, sweet chilli pepper flakes, bitter chocolate and lingering notes of caramel, peat smoke, cocoa and cinnamon.

6) Black and White

Known originally as the House of Commons, this fine blend has notes of unripe kiwis, light citrus, and celery salt. It is initially sweet, and slightly smoky, turning slightly sour and ending on a note of pepper and oak.

7) Imperial Blue

It is made with a perfect blend of Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts to get that exquisite smoothness. Although it is the fastest-selling whisky in India, you can trust us to always have this smooth blend available at some places in Mumbai such as Jasmine Wines.

8) White Walker by Johnnie Walker

Inspired by Game of Thrones, this is a limited edition whiskey from Johnnie Walker. It starts with a hint of orange Fruit Pastilles, dried apricot, toffee, vanilla and ginger followed by cinnamon and almond with a tease of fresh cherry and cut oak heat and ending with lingering pepper and spices. Part of our premium whisky collection at Jasmine Wines, the bottle has a temperature-sensitive graphic design which spells out “Winter is here” when it is at the right temperature for serving.

9) Blender’s Pride

This one is made by blending Indian grain spirits with imported Scottish malt without any artificial flavouring.  It goes well with Coke and doesn't give you much of a hangover.

10) Aristocrat Black

It has an exceedingly smooth taste with a floral and honeyed aroma and a hint of green apple and spice.

11) Jack Daniel’s

It makes quite a good combo with a soda, ice or cola of your preference and has a sweet aroma with notes of caramel and toasty oak.

This is a list we have compiled of our favourite brands. But as new players come in the field, there may be quite some more contenders along with the old heavyweights. Once you have ventured into the wonderful, rich and complex world of whisky, Jasmine Wines ensures that you get only the best quality and most authentic whisky. The flavours and favourites keep changing, but India’s love for whisky goes on.