For decades, Scotch whisky has been the global benchmark. Defined by geography, heritage, and rigorous regulation. But in recent years, Indian whisky has stepped confidently onto the world stage, earning critical acclaim. The question today is less about comparison and more about how Indian whisky is carving out its own identity. Because truly, the difference doesn’t beg comparison, but an open-mindedness and understanding of how different the conditions for production are. And, what makes some of this spirit produced here, at par with the best on the global stage.
So, is Indian whisky as good as Scotch? The answer depends on how one defines “good.” Scotch whisky carries centuries of tradition. It also offers remarkable regional diversity, from the smoky intensity of Islay to the elegance of Speyside. Indian whisky, by contrast, is younger, more experimental, and shaped by a dramatically different climate that influences both maturation and flavour.
It is important to acknowledge a historical distinction. Much of what has been labelled “whisky” in India has traditionally been a molasses-based spirit. This is unlike Scotch, which must be made from malted barley or grain. This contributed to a perception gap. And honestly, gave Indian whiskies a bad rap. However, India’s premium single malts now adhere to international whisky-making standards, using barley, copper pot stills, and carefully selected casks for maturation.
One of India’s biggest advantages is its climate. Unlike Scotland’s cool conditions, which require long maturation periods, India’s heat accelerates the ageing process. A whisky aged for four to five years in India can develop a depth comparable to a much older Scotch. However, this comes with a trade-off. The “angel’s share” in India can exceed 10–12% annually, far higher than Scotland’s average of around 2%. The result is a more intense, concentrated spirit that reflects its environment.
The shift began with the rise of Indian single malts. Pioneers like Amrut Distilleries and Paul John Whisky changed the narrative.
In 2004, Amrut launched its first single malt internationally in Glasgow, taking Indian whisky straight to Scotch’s home turf. The turning point came in 2009, when whisky critic Jim Murray rated Amrut.
Fusion at 97 points in the Whisky Bible (2010 edition), ranking it among the top whiskies in the world. There was no looking back after that!
Paul John Whisky was launched internationally in 2012, and the brand rapidly grew, winning hearts with its expressions. Paul John Brilliance, considered the flagship and most widely loved expression, became the darling of whisky, with its smooth and approachable finish.
New-generation distilleries are further expanding India’s whisky profile. Radico Khaitan’s Rampur single malt, produced in the foothills of the Himalayas, offers a refined, balanced style with dried fruit and honeyed notes. Godawan Whisky, crafted in Rajasthan, brings a distinctly Indian sensibility by incorporating local botanicals and a sustainability-focused ethos.
Meanwhile, companies like Tilaknagar Industries are signaling a broader industry evolution. Traditionally known for brandy, Tilaknagar’s move toward premium whisky reflects a shift from volume-driven production to quality-focused offerings. “India’s whisky story is evolving faster than ever, with growing consumer demand for premium and luxury expressions. With whisky commanding over 60% of India’s spirits market, expanding into this category was the next natural step for us,” stressed Amit Dahanukar, Chairman and Managing Director, Tilaknagar Industries Ltd.
Rather than competing directly, the two categories are better seen as distinct expressions of place. Indian whiskies are not trying to replicate Scotch; they are developing their own voice, bolder, often more vibrant, and increasingly sophisticated.
In step with the times, Godawan 100 is a prized single malt expression meant for collectors. Sold at a private auction, each bottle was priced at Rs 96,000. A single malt to cherish, it swept up the ‘Best Single Malt’ at the 2024 Awards at the London Spirits Competition, shining bright among 80 countries.
“When we launched the brand in 2021, it surprised people in terms of what Indian craftsmanship could offer. In 2022, we decided to celebrate and commemorate the first anniversary of the launch of Godawan, and that is when we conceptualised the Godawan 100. So, we made a hundred bottles of this particular expression, which is aged for nearly seven years, and it is double matured for three-and-a-half years in ex-Bourbon casks and three-and-a-half years in Oloroso sherry casks. This is essentially how Godawan 100 is different from other expressions,” Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer, Diageo India, shares his personal take on the liquid and the special elements of this limited-edition liquid.
Today, in international competitions and blind tastings, Indian whiskies are no longer curiosities. They are serious contenders. The global whisky landscape is evolving, and India has a lot to say.