When it comes to liquor, India loves to be in ‘high’ spirits. As one of the largest consumers of whisky in the world, India entertains both imported and homegrown liquor brands. But when it comes to drinking on a budget, Indian whisky brands rule the roost. So, if you have less than a thousand bucks to spare, which whiskies can you get? Let’s find out with our list of Indian whisky brands under ₹1000
Imperial Blue Superior Grain
Imperial Blue superior grain Indian Whisky costs under ₹1000 in most if not all Indian states. By volume,Imperial Blue is the third highest-selling whisky in the world. Currently manufactured and marketed by Pernod Ricard India, the brand was launched as a premium whisky by Seagram’s in 1997. Loved for its refined smoothness, the Imperial Blue Whisky is instantly recognizable to millions of Indian drink lovers due to its quirky promotional campaigns.
Royal Stag Deluxe
Another popular Indian whisky brand under ₹1000, the Royal Stag brand was launched in 1995. The whisky is a blend of finest Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts. Royal Stag Whisky also has the distinction of having no artificial flavors and is loved by the sub-continent’s drink lovers for its spicy taste. With a tagline that says “Make it large” there’s no wonder why Indians love this whisky.
McDowell’s Platinum
McDowell’s Platinum was launched in 2018, as a more refined version of the well-loved McDowell’s No.1 Whisky. Bottled and marketed by distillers United Spirits Limited, the brand falls under the ambit of Diageo. However, the roots of McDowell’s whiskies go way back to 1898 when Angus McDowell established the “McDowell and Company”. For the fans of the No.1, McDowell’s Platinum is a must try whisky in 2021.
DSP Black Deluxe
DSP Black need no introduction for an Indian drink lover. Originally manufactured by Shaw Wallace (SWC), the Indian whisky brand is now owned by United Spirits Limited. In an interesting turn of events, the SWC actually went to court against the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA) for selling this molasses-based product as “whisky”. In fact, you are bound to feel the burn with DSP BlackDeluxe Whisky, proving the distiller’s point.
8PM Whisky
This Indian whisky holds the record for selling one million cases within the first year of launch. The name of the whisky signifies the end of working hours and the time most Indian start with their pick-me-ups. The 8 PM Whisky brand is owned by Radico Khaitan and remains one of the highest-selling whiskies under ₹1000 in India.
Officer’s Choice Blue
Officer’s Choice is owned by Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD) and one of the best selling budget whisky brands in India. Officer’s Choice Blue is made from rich Scotch malts and finest Indian grain spirits delivering a smooth palate experience. It’s a more refined and premium version of the renowned Officer’s Choice Whisky by the distillers.
Bagpiper Deluxe
Available in both tamper-proof bottles and tetra packs, the Bagpiper Deluxe is a spirit matured in pre-identified American oak casks. In most parts of India, you can get this whisky under ₹750, which makes it a great choice for drink lovers on a budget. Despite its lower cost, the whisky does retain some of the woody and musky taste notes that define its pricier cousins in the whiskies under ₹1000 category.
So, there you have it, seven of the most popular and must try Indian whiskies in 2021. If you have tried them all, perhaps it’s time to check out the best selling Scotch whiskies in India.