The single malt landscape in India has witnessed a sea change with distillers in the country emerging as makers of some of the best whiskies in the world. Even globally established brands such as Glenlivet distilled by France’s Pernod Ricard, and Talisker by Britain’s Diageo are fighting for shelf space with local rivals Indri, Amrut and Radico Khaitan’s Rampur. (Image: Reuters)
Whiskey lovers in India are discovering new single malts within a short span of time that are that are taking the world by storm. And they are ready to explore the next pour to tantalise their senses. In the amber-hued world of whiskies, every sip has a story to tell. (Image: Shutterstock)
Let’s embark on a spirited journey through the “Best Whiskeys to Drink in 2024”, a list that has been meticulously crafted by renowned alco-bev platform VinePair. The list includes burbon, rye whiskies, single malts, blended malts, blended Scotch whiskies and more, in no particular order. (Image: Reuters)
No 1. Wilderness Trail Small Batch High Rye Bourbon | Average cost: $57 | A captivating whiskey that combines tradition, craftsmanship, and a dash of rye spice, this staple bourbon is adept for sipping occasions and mixing in cocktails. Wilderness Trail Distillery is nestled in the heart of Kentucky, a region which is popular for its rich bourbon heritage. Their commitment to quality and innovation shines through in their Small Batch High Rye Bourbon.
No 2. Jack Daniel’s Bonded Rye | Average Price: $38 | Jack Daniel’s, a popular brand among the masses, continues to push boundaries with its new bottled-in-bond Rye whiskey. This permanent extension of their bonded series introduces rye enthusiasts to a flavour profile that marries heritage with innovation.
No 3. Glenglassaugh Sandend Highland Single Malt | Average Price: $70 | If you are familiar with the world of Scotch whisky, you must know that it lays more emphasis on age than alcohol content. However, Glenglassaugh’s Sandend Highland Single Malt challenges that concept. It comes with an even-keeled 50.5% ABV with no age statement given.
No 4. Maclean’s Nose Blended Scotch Whisky | Average Price: $37 | Maclean’s Nose is a blended Scotch whisky by Adelphi, a Scottish independent bottler with a rich history dating back to 1993. This expression celebrates Charles Maclean, a whisky expert, mentor, and Adelphi’s official Chief Nose.
No 5. Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky | Average Price: $60 | The House of Piccadilly Distilleries’ renowned single malt whiskey, Indri, has won the title of Best “New World” Whiskey, extending its global acclaim. With this, Indri continues to further cement its standing as one of India’s fastest-rising single malt brands liked by enthusiasts both at home and abroad.
No 6. Teeling Small Batch Irish Whiskey | Average Price: $42 | This whiskey defies convention and invites enthusiasts to explore a blend that pushes boundaries. Influenced by unconventional cask maturation techniques, this whiskey offers layers of flavour that set it aside from the ordinary ones.
No 7. Alberta Premium Cask Strength Rye | Average Price: $85 | Emerging from the heart of Canada, this whiskey is bottled at a bold 63.5% ABV, and produced using 100 per cent unmalted rye. The brand is very well familiar within the rye space and melds intense tart berries with oak sweetness and complexity.
No 8. Mars ‘The Lucky Cat May & Luna’ | Average Price: $95 | This whiskey celebrates the charm and mystery of Japan’s ‘Lucky Cat’ folklore. and comes from the highest distillery in Japan’s Nagano region — Mars Shinshu. Tradition and innovation converge in every sip of this blend, paying homage to good fortune.
No 9. Elements of Islay Sherry Cask | Average Price: $110 | It is a combination of malt whiskies from undisclosed distilleries on Islay, which is regarded as the spiritual birthplace of peated whisky, and strikes the perfect balance between sweet and smoky flavours.
No 10. Compass Box Artist Blend Scotch Whisky | Average Price: $36 | A testament to the artistry and innovation that define the world of Scotch whisky, this whiskey is crafted by the visionary team at Compass Box Whisky and invites discerning spirits enthusiasts on a sensory journey like no other.
Omprakash Tiwary is a business writer who delves into the intricacies of the corporate world. With a focus on finance and economic landscape. He offers readers valuable insights into market trends, entrepreneurship, and economic developments.