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Certain Indian whiskies are having their global moment, bagging awards at prestigious international spirits competitions. Their impact within the domestic market is even greater, with homegrown single malts making up nearly 53 per cent of the market’s total alcohol sales in 2023, according to data released by the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverages Companies.
In fact, four of the 10 biggest-selling spirits in the world in 2023 were Indian whiskies, according to a Brand Champions report. This complete list includes a mix of superior blends and safe bets — across a range of affordable pricing.
6 Indian whiskies from Rs 520 to Rs 1450 that have become the biggest sellers in the world
McDowell’s has been a tried-and-tested homegrown brand for several decades now, and, according to the report, has held the top position as the biggest-selling Indian whisky with 31.4 million case sales in 2023, an increase of 2.1 per cent since 2022. It recently launched the country’s first luxury single malt whisky aged in Indian wine casks — the Distiller’s Batch, but as far as safe bets go, it's the classic McDowell’s No. 1 Premium Whisky, with its rich and well-balanced flavour, carrying hints of caramel, fruit and spice, that remains a favoured choice.
Price: Rs 640
Royal Stag whiskies, too, have witnessed an upsurge of 3 per cent — from 27.1 million cases in 2022 to 27.9 million cases in 2023. The Royal Stag Barrel, with its pleasing and creamy blend of toffee, honey and smoke, makes for a tasty usquebaugh.
Price: Rs 960
With 23.4 million cases being sold in 2023, Officer’s Choice, a budget-friendly option, is third on the list of the biggest-selling Indian whiskies, according to the Brand Champions report. With a 42.8 per cent alcohol by volume (ABV), the whisky, which is matured in charred oak barrels has both fruity and floral flavours.
Price: Rs 520
Imperial Blue, which sold 22.8 million cases last year, can certainly be enjoyed on the rocks but makes for a great cocktail base with its subtle traces of grain and caramel, and its smooth texture filled with flavours of honey, vanilla and spice.
Price: Rs 640
A unique blend of sweet and fruity flavours made this medium-bodied, peaty whisky a great start for beginners. 8 PM, which sold 12.2 million cases in 2023, also has a rich, lingering finish.
Price: Rs 720
One of the most popular and affordable Indian whiskies available in the market, Blenders Pride, which sold 9.6 million cases last year, has a harmonious blend of malt and grain spirits, with pleasing notes of caramel, spice and oak.
Price: Rs 1450