By GQ
India is the second largest consumer of spirits in the world, according to IWSR Drinks Market Analysis, a London-based research firm. The nation’s favourite tipples include whisky, vodka, gin, rum, tequila and liqueurs. Per BBC, India consumes more than 663 million litres of alcohol – up 11 per cent from 2017. Which of course is a jaw dropping figure, but hardly surprising, as the republic is known to produce an ample amount of Indian-made foreign liquor (IMFL) as well as whiskies, gins and wines in its pockets.
Many homegrown whisky brands, today, are even competing against whiskies from top whiskey-producing countries in the world, amongst which three labels, below, have been able to make a huge mark in the global tipple market.
1. Rampur Select Indian Single Malt Whisky
The beautiful, amber gold, Rampur Select Indian Single Malt Whisky, from Radico Khaitan Limited, has bagged many international laurels, including the Double Gold Medal San Francisco, USA, and is an extremely popular blend in foreign markets. The single malt is aged in the foothills of the Himalayas, and its fruity and floral notes overlap each other in every dram.
2. Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky
Crafted in Bengaluru by Amrut Distilleries, Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky is an award-winning bitter-sweet blend, matured in New American Oak and ex-bourbon before bottling. Its tasting notes include hints of orange citrus, cocoa and a smooth toffee.
3. Paul John Edited Single Malt Whisky
While this writer is biased towards all the heady blends produced by Goa’s Paul John Distillery, the Paul John Edited Single Malt Whisky has found many takers in the global market. Bottled at 46 per cent ABV, the amber hued whisky is made from Indian 6-row barley and peated Scottish barley. Spice and chocolate, almost coffee-like notes dominate a dram’s flavour profile.
