India’s spirits market is buzzing with excitement as a slew of new launches offer something special for every connoisseur. From the heights of the Himalayas to the cultural depths of St. Petersburg, these innovative and diverse spirits capture the essence of global craftsmanship and local flavours. Whether you’re a tequila lover, a whisky enthusiast, or a rum aficionado, the latest entrants are designed to tantalise your taste buds and elevate your drinking experience. Here’s a closer look at these new must-try spirits making waves in India.
New Spirits To Try In India
1. Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky: House of the Dragon Exclusive Edition
Inspired by the intrigue of ‘House of the Dragon’, Indri unveils two distinct expressions: House of Black and House of Green. Each whisky pays homage to the realms of Westeros with unique flavour profiles. House of Black entices with sweet toffee, vanilla, and subtle peat, while House of Green exudes elegance with ripe bananas, honey, and delicate nuttiness. These collectable whiskies promise a journey through the sophisticated courts of Westeros, blending Indian craftsmanship with the allure of a global phenomenon.
Availability: Soon to be available in select premium outlets in India and exclusively at Delhi Duty-Free
Cost: Starting at ₹6,000
2. Mis Amigos Tequilas
Mis Amigos Chocolate Tequila combines the rich, creamy taste of milk chocolate with a subtle kick of tequila, creating a delightful after-dinner drink or a fun party shot. With a light latte brown colour and a bouquet reminiscent of milk chocolate with a hint of tequila, this liqueur promises a creamy and enjoyable experience. The drink delivers 54 kcals per 30 ml, making it a guilt-free treat for chocolate lovers.
Mis Amigos Strawberry Cream Tequila has a light pink hue and a flavour profile akin to a strawberry milkshake with a tequila twist. This is a must-try for those who enjoy fruity and creamy spirits. It’s perfect for a summer day or a fun night out, containing 54 kcals per 30 ml.
Combining the robust flavours of premium Arabica coffee with the smoothness of sweet Mexican tequila, Mis Amigos Coffee Tequila is versatile enough to be enjoyed on the rocks, as a shot, or in an espresso martini.
3. IDAAYA Rum
Crafted amidst the serenity of the Himalayas, IDAAYA embodies the essence of ancient Indian spirit-making traditions. This dark rum, celebrated for its rich amber hue, offers a sensory journey with notes of jaggery, vanilla, and all-spice on the nose. The palate unfolds with layers of caramel, dark chocolate, tropical fruits, and toasted vanilla, culminating in a smooth finish that lingers with the essence of the Himalayas. Awarded for its excellence internationally, IDAAYA promises a moment of reflection and indulgence with each sip.
Availability: Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore duty-free shops
4. Onegin Vodka
Hailing from St. Petersburg, Onegin Vodka is a testament to Russian heritage and refinement. Crafted from the finest wheat grains and triple-charcoal-filtered, it achieves unparalleled smoothness. Infused with almond, honey distillate, and vanilla, each sip reveals a complex symphony of flavours—nuttiness balanced by sweetness and a warm vanilla finish. Onegin Vodka embodies the cultural vibrancy of its birthplace, making it a choice for connoisseurs seeking a taste of Russian elegance in every pour.
Availability: Soon to be available at select premium retail stores, luxury hotels, and fine dining establishments in major Indian cities
Cost: ₹5,400
5. Pistola Agave
Aged for over 14 months in Virgin American White Oak, Añejo by Pistola offers a rich, deep gold-brown hue and an aromatic profile of cocoa and dried figs with a hint of smokiness. The smooth, rich flavour makes it perfect for sipping neat or with a splash of water. Aged for over 36 months, Extra Añejo by Pistola features a complex nose of vanilla, caramel, butterscotch, and dry spice. Its robust and velvety palate delivers flavours of dark chocolate, spiced caramel, and a superb smoky finish, making it a luxurious choice for special occasions.
Availability: Maharashtra
Cost: Starting at ₹2,495
6. Paul John Whisky Exclusive Single Cask Release
Paul John Whisky, known for its exceptional Indian single malts, has introduced an exclusive single cask release in partnership with Avolta Duty-Free at Bengaluru International Airport. Crafted on the tropical coast of Goa, India, this unpeated Madeira expression is a testament to Paul John’s artistry. Matured to perfection, it offers a symphony of aromas, including delightful Christmas cake, dry plum, and Manuka honey, with a lively orange zest.
Availability: Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru
Cost: USD 300 (₹25,000 approx.)
7. 818 Tequila
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818 Tequila, owned by Kendall Jenner, has made its debut in India through Berry Beverages, catering to the country’s burgeoning luxury spirits market. Crafted in Amatitán, Mexico, using traditional methods, 818 Tequila is celebrated for its smooth taste and sustainable practices. The tequila undergoes slow-cooking of agaves for over 30 hours and is crushed using traditional Tahona wheels. 818 Tequila offers several variants, including Blanco, Reposado, Añejo, and the ultra-premium Eight Reserve, each showcasing distinct characteristics that reflect its craftsmanship and commitment to sustainability.
Availability: Delhi NCR, expanding to Mumbai, Goa, Karnataka, and Telangana
Cost: Starting at ₹7,170
8. Godawan Artisanal Single Malt Whisky: 01 Rich and Rounded
Godawan Artisanal Single Malt Whisky hails from Alwar, Rajasthan, embodying tradition and excellence. The 01 Rich and Rounded expression is matured in premium PX (Pedro Ximenez) Sherry Casks and American Standard Barrels, imparting captivating aromas of sultanas and dried fruits. Its syrupy, smooth texture leads to a finish highlighted by notes of caramel and butteriness akin to baklava.
Availability: Delhi, Rajasthan, Punjab, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Goa, Telangana, Assam, Chhattisgarh, and Dubai
Cost: Starting at ₹2,800
9. D’YAVOL VORTEX
D’YAVOL VORTEX, a premium blended scotch whisky, launched recently with a blend of single malt and single grain whiskies sourced from Scotland’s Lowlands, Highlands, Speyside, and Islay regions. This malt-forward whisky offers a full-bodied and complex palate, balancing rich malt flavours with sherried sweetness and subtle peat. Non-chill filtered to preserve its character and mouthfeel, VORTEX promises a rich and indulgent whisky experience.
Availability: Maharashtra, Goa
Cost: ₹4,500 onwards
10. Queenfisher Premium Lager Beer
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United Breweries Limited (UBL), part of the HEINEKEN Company, has launched Queenfisher Premium Lager Beer in Maharashtra, expanding on its successful introduction in Goa, Assam, and Meghalaya. This beer celebrates sisterhood and inclusivity, reflecting the ethos of Kingfisher. The packaging features diverse women against a vibrant purple backdrop, with the iconic bird crowned, symbolising strength and unity among women. Queenfisher aims to provide a platform for meaningful conversations and celebrate the role of women in society.
Availability: Available at leading outlets across Maharashtra.
11. Ardbeg Spectacular
Ardbeg, renowned for its peaty whiskies, introduced Ardbeg Spectacular, the distillery’s first whisky aged in port casks. This limited edition was launched during Ardbeg Day celebrations at Ospree Duty-Free in Mumbai. The whisky combines bourbon-matured Ardbeg with port barrel ageing, creating notes of dark chocolate, mint, candied fruit, and smoked pecans.
Availability: Ospree Duty-Free, Mumbai International Airport
Cost: ₹11,100
12. Falak Wine
The Leela Bharitya City Bengaluru unveiled Falak Wine, its signature label crafted in collaboration with Grover Zampa Vineyards. Inspired by the panoramic views from Falak, the hotel’s fine dining restaurant, this wine reflects the beauty of Nandi Hills. Falak Wine is a blend of Chardonnay and Cabernet Shiraz, aged in oak barrels to enhance its structure and balance.
Availability: Bengaluru
Cheers to discovering new favourite spirits in India and savouring the artistry in every sip!
Cover Image Courtesy: Press Release