Every December, as the year winds down and the celebrations begin, 30 Best Bars India drops the one report everyone waits for: What India Is Drinking. And 2025’s edition is perhaps the most exciting one yet. It shows how India is developing, changing, experimenting, and redefining its taste with each sip. So, if you’ve ever wondered what alcohol brands India is actually pouring, ordering, and celebrating with today, this list is your ultimate guide.
The Most-Loved Alcohol Brands In India This Year
1. Agave: Don Julio
One of the biggest surprises of this year comes from the world of agave spirits. Don Julio has officially taken the crown, pushing Patron down to second place. Don Julio offers an experience that feels rich, balanced, and perfect for celebrations or even casual nights out.
2. Blended Scotch & Malt: Johnnie Walker
When it comes to blended Scotch, Johnnie Walker continues to be everyone’s reliable favourite. The brand’s emotional connection with Indian drinkers is unmatched. That familiarity, paired with consistent quality, keeps Johnnie Walker comfortably at No. 1 year after year. It’s a brand that promises no surprises, just smooth, dependable whisky that feels right for every occasion.
3. International Whisky: Jameson
India’s love for smooth whiskies is clearly not slowing down, and Jameson proves it for the second year in a row. Fresh, approachable, and easy to mix, Jameson has become the go-to choice for younger drinkers and cocktail lovers alike. Its popularity also reflects a shift toward lighter, more versatile spirits that pair well with casual drinking moments. Whether someone orders a Jameson Ginger or prefers it with ice, it’s a whisky that always feels friendly and easy-going.
4. Indian Premium Whisky: Oaksmith
This is a proud moment for Indian whisky. Oaksmith has taken the No. 1 spot this year, showing just how far Indian-made spirits have come. Its special Japanese-inspired blending style gives it a smoothness and clarity that people instantly appreciate. Interestingly, according to the What India Is Drinking report, though it’s the national leader, it’s the No. 1 brand in only two cities, Delhi and Pune. Oaksmith’s success is a reminder that Indian drinkers are ready to embrace homegrown quality with an international touch.
5. Scottish Single Malt: Glenfiddich
In the Scotch single malt market, Glenfiddich continues to hold the top spot. Its dominance in Delhi, Goa, and Pune, as per the What India Is Drinking report, actually shows how well-liked it is by people who value traditional single malts.
6. International Single Malt: Yamazaki
This year brings a massive shift toward Asian whiskies, and Yamazaki stands proudly at the top of that movement. With eight Japanese brands entering What India Is Drinking’s rankings of International Single Malts, it’s clear that Indian drinkers are falling in love with the finesse and elegance of Japanese craftsmanship. Yamazaki leads in major cities like Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru, which says everything about its appeal.
7. Indian Single Malt:
Indian single malts are having their golden moment, and Indri is leading the charge for 2025. Holding on to its No. 1 position, Indri’s rise is supported by its steady national visibility and the many awards it continues to collect internationally. It leads in Delhi, Gurgaon, and Kolkata, proving that Indian drinkers appreciate well-made homegrown spirits more than ever before. Indri’s flavour profile has helped it become a favourite among both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and new explorers.
8. Vodka: Grey Goose
In the vodka category, the shift toward premium is clearer than ever. This year as well, Grey Goose holds the top spot. It certainly hints at India’s rising preference for rich experiences. It’s a simple favourite at both house parties and bars because of its perfect finish and silky, smooth texture.
9. Gin: Bombay Sapphire
In the ongoing gin craze in India, Bombay Sapphire is still at the top. It has a long-standing relationship with Indian customers because of its distinctive blue bottle and revitalising botanical profile. It is still ranked #1 in almost every major city, with the exception of New Delhi, indicating how enduring its appeal is.
10. Rum: Bacardi
It is evident that among Indian rum consumers, Bacardi continues to be the undisputed king. The brand is so embedded in popular drinking culture that it dominates every city. Bacardi has endured for decades in a range of beverages due to its versatility and easy-drinking style.
Also Read: 10 Amazing New Restaurants In Jaipur Bringing Global Flavours To The Pink City This December
11. International Beer: Corona
Corona is still the most popular imported beer in India because it is light, crisp, and incredibly refreshing. Its steady performance this year shows how much Indians enjoy easy, relaxed beers. These days, it’s the perfect drink for leisurely evenings, holidays, and brunches. For beer enthusiasts, Corona is the preferred premium beer since it dominates every market.
12. Indian Beer & Adjacencies: Kingfisher
Few brands are as iconic in India as Kingfisher, and its No. 1 position this year backs that legacy. With the exception of Goa, Kingfisher dominates every market due to its extensive distribution and high brand recall, proving how widely popular it is across the country.
13. International Still Wine: Jacob’s Creek
India and foreign wines continue to have a stable relationship, with Jacob’s Creek leading the way once more in 2025. Its well-balanced flavours and affordable premium positioning make it a fantastic choice for both formal and casual events. Whether it’s a smooth red or a refreshing white, Jacob’s Creek offers wines that feel familiar, easy to enjoy, and beautifully consistent.
14. Indian Still Wine: Sula
The Indian wine category continues its strong foundation with Sula at No. 1, followed by Fratelli and Grover. According to What India Is Drinking, Sula leads the market in major cities like Pune, Gurgaon, Goa, and Mumbai. It continues to be the best because of its widely available flavours in restaurants, wine shops, and resorts.
15. Champagne: Moët & Chandon
When Indians celebrate, they celebrate with Moët & Chandon. It is the most well-liked Champagne in the LVMH portfolio because of its approachable flavour and reasonable price. Whether it’s a wedding, a milestone, or a luxury night out, Moët sets the tone. Regional rankings mirror the national one, with Moët and Dom Pérignon leading in every major city.
16. Sparkling Wine: Cinzano
In sparkling wine, Cinzano makes a strong rise to No. 1 this year. Its flavour profile feels instantly familiar and enjoyable for Indian palates, and its strong distribution ensures that it’s easily available where people shop and drink. It leads in places like Kolkata, Pune, and Gurgaon, becoming the preferred bubbly option for those who want something celebratory without crossing into Champagne territory.
17. Brandy: Hennessy
In the world of brandy and cognac, Hennessy continues to sit comfortably at the top. J Its leadership in every major market shows how strong India’s connection is with premium cognacs. Hennessy remains the drink people choose when they want depth, warmth, and a touch of sophistication.
18. Liqueurs & Other Spirits: Jägermeister
What started as a party favourite has now become a cultural staple. Jägermeister leads the category by a huge margin, proving that Indians love its bold, herbal flavour and its legendary chilled-shot ritual. It’s present across celebrations, nightlife, and even creative cocktail menus, making it one of the most versatile and recognisable spirits today.
19. Amaro & Aperitif: Campari
India’s palate is opening up beautifully, and Campari sits proudly at the top of the amaro and aperitif category. Along with Aperol, it dominates the space entirely. Negronis and spritzes are trending in India’s cocktail culture, and Campari is at the heart of both, bringing boldness, bitterness, and balance.
From agave to aperitifs, the tastes in India are evolving fast, and if these alcohol brands are any indication, the future of drinking here is only getting more exciting.
Cover Image Courtesy: Don Julio/Instagram and Canva/Airam Dato-on
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