It’s hard to choose a good Indian whisky. If you’re a true-blue aficionado, you might already know your stuff. But if, like a lot of people, you’re just getting into the game, it’s tricky to know who to ask for a solid recommendation. Preferences and biases can lead you astray; but here in this list, we take those variables out of the equation. Six of the country’s top bar runners and bartenders–who live and breathe premium spirits–tell you the one Indian-made whisky that they would go to bat for. A better curation you will not find.
1. Paul John Christmas Edition 2021
WHY THEY LOVE IT
“I don’t generally drink whiskey, but when I do it’s usually a drink to mark a moment. I tried the Christmas Edition 2021, during the holidays and it holds a special place in my heart. It’s a lovely single malt, finished in ex-bourbon and port casks, mildly spiced and has hints of butterscotch; basically all things Christmas.”
HOW TO DRINK IT
“Poured on a large and clear block of ice.”
2. Godawan 02
WHY THEY LOVE IT
“The Godawan number 2 is perfect when you want a little more flavour and spice in your dram. The Cherry Cask edition really lends itself well to adding a bit of complexity that goes perfectly just with some ice that opens the spirit up beautifully.”
HOW TO DRINK IT
“On the rocks; it really unlocks the flavours”
3. Epitome Reserve
WHY THEY LOVE IT
“It’s an Indian craft whisky that is completely unique. The whisky is matured in ex-bourbon casks, and then finished in casks that previously held Cabernet Sauvignon wine. That gives the whisky a very distinct character.”
HOW TO DRINK IT
“I love it neat with a splash of water”
4. Amrut
WHY THEY LOVE IT
Amrut is the first Indian single malt, showing a character of spice, fruit and honey. Bottled at 46%, it has the depth of flavour needed to properly showcase the distillery. Distinctly confidant liquorice-bourbon notes with near perfect bitter-sweet balance; burnt honeycomb and toffee also abound. Long, wonderfully layered oak offering variations of a sweet dry theme; a touch silky with some cream toffee at the death.
HOW TO DRINK IT
“I love it neat with a splash of water”
5. Rampur
WHY THEY LOVE IT
Matured in a combination of ex-bourbon barrels and European oak sherry casks, this Indian single malt from Rampur has a rich, complex character. Aromas of tropical fruits mingle with sweet malt, oak, honey and dried fruits on the nose, and the palate offers notes of dark berries, dried fruits, cinnamon, nutmeg and salted caramel.
HOW TO DRINK IT
“On the rocks; it really unlocks the flavours”
