India’s alcohol scene is undergoing a renaissance, and homegrown brands are launching innovative, top-shelf spirits. From premium whiskeys and craft gins to smooth vodkas and bold rums, Indian brands are raising the bar. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a gin lover or something in between, here’s a round-up of the best Indian alcohol brands to have launched new offerings.
Tennis Top Indian Whiskey Brands: Bold, Zesty and New Players
Whiskey has undisputedly been India’s spirit of choice, and string of recent launches have only upped the pot. The best Indian whiskey brands have released phenomenal new offerings, both at home and abroad.
Indri-Trini – India’s first triple-cask matured single malt, it uses a complex mixture of different cask types – bourbon, French wine and sherry – to create a complex tapestry of rich vanilla, dried fruit and spice.
Godawan Single Malt — A premium whiskey, launched by Diageo India, this single malt is distilled in the deserts of Rajasthan, the flavors of which come from desert botanicals and extreme climatic conditions.
Kamet Single Malt—Matured in ex-bourbon, ex-wine, and ex-sherry casks, Kamet features a complex profile peppered with dark chocolate, raisins, and oak.
These brands are elevating Indian whiskey, and they're doing it enough to rival some of the best-known names in the world.
Pure with a Twist: Indian Vodka Brands
Vodka may not be India’s first true love, but the brands are now producing some of the cleanest and most exciting blends. Whether you sip it straight or in cocktails, these Indian vodka brands are something special.
Smoke Vodka – A small-batch, charcoal-filtered spirit with Classic and Aniseed variations.
Rahasya VodkaA product of India’s cultural aura, Rahasya Vodka is that every sip of vodka would create a sound that would rejoice the India.
White Mischief – One of the OGs of India’s vodka brigade, White Mischief is popular for being light, crisp and easy on the pocket.
However, these rum producers are taking their place in a lineup of popular Indian rum brands that blends tradition with modern craft.
Rum has a deep-rooted affection in India, due to its colonial history and tropical weather. Many popular Indian rum brands introduced premium variants that expand this spirit's image beyond its traditional boundaries.
Makazai Rum —
A one-of-a-kind craft rum from Goa, Makazai boasts both a white and a gold rum, both inundated with rich, smooth flavors.
Peaky Blinders Blonde Ale – It is a mythical brand, especially among the defense personnel, who prefer its bold and warming notes.
Old Monk 12-Year Reserve — An aged version of India’s most famous rum, it has more intense caramel, vanilla and spice notes.
These brands are teaching us that Indian rum isn’t strictly a drink for winter — it’s an experience.
The Revolution in Indian Gin Brands: The Making of Gin in India
India’s gin renaissance has been testament to that, giving us many of the most exciting alcohol launches in recent times. These Indian gin brands, infused with unique Indian botanicals, are taking the global audience by storm.
Greater Than – India’s first craft gin, from Goa and featuring a fresh juniper-forward palate with citrus and spice notes.
Hapusa – Junipered with Himalayan sourced juniper and handpicked botanicals from the region like gondhoraj lime and turmeric, Hapusa is the Indian interpretation of gin.
Stranger & Sons – An internationally awarded gin, produced in Goa, boasting an exotic blend of Indian botanicals including black pepper, nutmeg and ginger.
The New Wave: Indian Beer Brands Shifting to Craft Brews
Yes, beer consumption has evolved in India, where there is no longer just a mass-produced lager quenching our beer-thirst, but instead an increasingly growing love for craft beers —taking proof from the fact that there are thousands of beer breweries across multiple states in India. Indian beer brands are now brewing with bold flavours and innovative techniques.
Simba Beer – Counted amongst the first craft beer brands in India, Simba has refreshing options as Stout, Wit and Strong.
Bira 91 – Probably the best-known name behind India’s beer revolution, Bira 91 remains unafraid to work with new styles such as its Mango Lassi Sour and Malabar Stout.
Arbor Brewing Co. – Arbor’s beer selection includes a fantastic IPA and Belgian-style brews, Arbor is Bangalore’s pioneering craft brewery.
THE BEST INDIAN LIQUOR BRANDS: EXPERIMENTATION REIGNS SUPREME
Indian liquor brands are leading the charge, not playing catch up when it comes to global trends. From whiskey to gin to vodka to rum to beer, these brands are breaking down barriers and establishing high quality spirits for both modern and traditional tastes.
A fine, boastful alchemy of heritage, craftsmanship and innovation, the new alcohol launches by Indian brands reveal more than whether this country has turned from being a consumer of international spirits into a force to join on the world stage. So, the next time you’re in the mood for a premium drink, think about reaching for an Indian brand that’s raising the bar.
Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at .
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)