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India’s alco-bev market is booming, with homegrown liquor brands like Old Monk and Indri-Trini winning global awards for quality and taste, driving high demand worldwide
Crowned the ‘World’s Best Whisky’, Indri-Trini is known for its smooth flavour profile and distinctive craftsmanship. (News18 Hindi)
Indian alcohol brands are making a splash across the globe. What was once a staple at local parties and family gatherings is now being poured into glasses in New York, London, Tokyo, and beyond. From whisky to gin and rum, Indian spirits are rising in global popularity, thanks to their unique character and multiple international awards.
But this is about more than just liquor. Indian brands are now telling stories, sharing centuries-old traditions, and showcasing regional techniques. Whether it’s a smooth single malt from the Himalayan foothills or a coastal coconut rum from Goa, these spirits capture the essence of Indian ingredients and creativity, and are earning global attention for all the right reasons.
Alco-bev Market On The Rise
India is currently the third-largest market in the world for alcoholic beverages, trailing only China and the United States. The country’s alco-bev (alcoholic beverages) sector is on a high-growth trajectory, expanding from approximately Rs 1.7 lakh crore in FY 2015 to an estimated Rs 5 lakh crore by FY 2028.
This boom reflects both growing domestic consumption and the increasing international appeal of Indian spirits. With demand rising, homegrown brands are stepping confidently onto the global stage.
Indian Whiskies Winning Global Gold
Indri-Trini Single Malt: This award-winning whisky has taken the world by storm. Crowned ‘World’s Best Whisky’ at the Whiskies of the World Awards, Indri-Trini is known for its smooth flavour profile and distinctive craftsmanship.
Amrut Single Malt: Often considered India’s first true single malt to achieve international acclaim, Amrut is made from a mix of Indian barley and Scottish peated barley. It has consistently bagged honours at the World Whiskies Awards and is renowned for its layered and bold taste.
Rampur Whisky: A royal sip in every glass, Rampur hails from the foothills of the Himalayas and has won the ‘Best World Single Malt’ title at the 2025 John Barleycorn Awards. It reflects India’s premium whisky potential on the global map.
McDowell’s No. 1: One of the best-selling whisky brands in India and across the world, McDowell’s No. 1 continues to hold its spot at the top. Launched in 1968, it remains a household name, winning India’s most-loved whisky title in 2023.
Officer’s Choice: Also counted among the world’s top 100 liquor brands, this affordable and widely consumed whisky continues to drive Indian presence in global alco-bev rankings.
Indian Gins Gaining Global Spirit
GinGin (GG): Inspired by the Sanskrit word Jijivisha (meaning “lust for life”), this gin is packed with Indian botanicals and has won multiple gold medals at global competitions like the London Spirits Awards.
Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin: Crafted in small batches at the historic Rampur Distillery, this gin combines eleven botanicals, seven of which are sourced from India. Its triple-distilled blend offers a smooth and distinctly Indian flavour.
Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin: Named after the Sanskrit word for juniper berry, this gin gets its flavour from juniper grown in the Himalayan pine forests, alongside other native botanicals. Its earthy and crisp profile makes it a hit abroad.
Old Favourites Rum And Beer
Old Monk: A classic dark rum beloved across generations, Old Monk is now making waves internationally. Aged for seven years, its deep aroma carries notes of caramel, chocolate, ripe peach, and vanilla, though its taste is far less sweet than its scent suggests.
Feni: A heritage spirit from Goa, Feni is made using cashew fruit or coconut and has been part of local traditions for centuries. Now, it is finding new fans abroad as a premium cocktail ingredient and boutique spirit.
Bira 91: India’s most globally visible craft beer brand, Bira 91 has become a youth favourite. It won a record seven awards at The European Beer Challenge, also known as the Oscars of the beer world, the most ever for an Indian beer company.
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