In 2024, the Indian craft spirits scene is experiencing an exhilarating renaissance, with 78 remarkable homegrown brands showcased by 30BestBarsIndia. This initiative celebrates the best of India’s burgeoning spirits industry, reflecting a vibrant shift toward locally sourced ingredients and traditional distilling practices. As consumers increasingly embrace what’s made at home, a wave of innovation is reshaping the landscape, making it an exciting time for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike. Here, we delve into the top ten craft spirits that are not just drinks but stories of culture, heritage, and artistry.
Top 10 Indian Craft Spirits
1. Hapusa
Leading the pack is Hapusa, an exceptional gin that embodies the spirit of India’s diverse botanicals. Named after the Sanskrit word for juniper, Hapusa is distilled from ingredients sourced from the Himalayan pine forests, Tamil Nadu’s monsoon lands, the riverbanks of the Hooghly, and the lush fields of Goa. This gin presents an aromatic profile rich with pine forests and wildflowers, while the palate reveals a bold earthiness followed by a delicately spiced finish. Enjoy it straight from the freezer for a refreshing, exotic experience that’s perfect for any long weekend.
2. Greater Than
Following closely is Greater Than, India’s pioneering craft London Dry Gin, known for its clean, refreshing profile. Launched in 2017, this gin features a nose of crisp juniper and fresh lemon peel, with a delightful hint of fennel and a zing of ginger on the finish. Designed with bartenders in mind, Greater Than has become a favourite among home mixologists, available in 11 states across India and 16 countries worldwide. Its minimalistic approach in both design and taste makes it a versatile choice for a variety of cocktails.
3. Stranger & Sons
Stranger & Sons holds a prominent place as a contemporary Indian gin that pays homage to local spices. Launched in 2018, it quickly garnered accolades, including recognition as one of the top eight gins globally at the IWSC 2020. Crafted by Third Eye Distillery in Goa, this gin combines unique Indian botanicals, creating a profile that’s both familiar and exotic. Its widespread acclaim has led to its availability in over 15 countries, making it a cult favourite.
4. Indri
The rise of Indri is a testament to innovation in the whisky category. As India’s first triple-cask single malt, Indri-Trini has climbed the ranks to become the fastest-growing single malt globally, with more than 15 international awards to its name. With its maturation in ex-bourbon, ex-French wine, and PX Sherry casks Indri offers a harmonious blend of tradition and modernity, evoking the essence of the five senses, as suggested by its Sanskrit name.
5. Old Monk
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Old Monk continues to be a timeless classic in India’s spirits landscape. This dark rum, launched in 1855, is beloved for its distinct vanilla flavour and rich aroma. It is characterised by notes of oak, almond, and caramel. With an alcohol content of 42.8%, it delivers a sweet and fruity palate complemented by butterscotch and dark chocolate hints. Its warm, full-bodied finish makes it a nostalgic favourite for many.
6. Maya Pistola & Paul John
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Sharing the sixth spot are Maya Pistola and Paul John. Maya Pistola stands out as Asia’s first pure 100% aged agave spirit, blending traditional Mexican techniques with Indian craftsmanship. It offers a robust sipping experience across seven variants, all designed to be hangover-free. Meanwhile, Paul John whiskies are celebrated for their unique character. They are made from locally sourced ingredients in Goa, delivering a taste that captures the essence of the region’s rich culture and hospitality.
7. Jaisalmer
Jaisalmer is among India’s first craft gins. It boasts a complex flavour profile derived from 11 botanicals sourced from across the country. Notably, its coriander and vetiver are grown in the fields around Jaisalmer, while other botanicals like sweet orange peel and lemongrass are sourced from different regions. This gin is a tribute to the iconic gin & tonic cocktail. It also offers a truly Indian twist that embodies the country’s diverse agricultural heritage.
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8. Short Story
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With a mission to redefine the spirits landscape, Short Story offers a portfolio that includes a classic London dry gin, a triple-distilled grain vodka, and an Indo-Caribbean white rum. Each spirit is crafted with precision, aiming to set a benchmark for quality in Indian distilling. The vodka is enhanced through charcoal filtering for smoothness. The gin also presents invigorating citrus flavours, making them ideal for zesty cocktails.
9. Godawan
Godawan celebrates the cultural heritage of Rajasthan with its artisanal single-malt whisky. Born in a water-scarce environment, this whisky is crafted from locally sourced six-row barley and matured in unique cask architectures using rare Indian botanicals. Godawan embodies the spirit of the desert, and its commitment to conservation and community water security efforts showcases a dedication not only to quality but also to sustainability and heritage.
10. Amrut Whisky
Last but not least, Amrut Whisky is a pioneer in Indian single malt production. Established in 1948 in Bangalore, Amrut has garnered global acclaim for its innovative ageing techniques and unique flavour profiles. Each variant reflects a rich blend of tradition and modernity, making it a favourite among whisky enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its craftsmanship, Amrut represents the evolution of Indian spirits on the international stage.
As Indian craft spirits continue to flourish, these top ten brands highlight the richness of local ingredients and traditions.
Cover Image Courtesy: Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin/Instagram and Maya Pistola Agavepura/Instagram
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