India's single malt scene has matured dramatically in the past decade. With favorable climatic conditions (especially faster aging due to heat), passionate craftsmanship, and global inspiration, Indian distilleries are now producing world-class single malts that rival traditional Scotch.

What is Single Malt Whisky?

Single malt whiskey is often regarded as the pinnacle of whiskey craftsmanship. It's made from 100% malted barley and produced at a single distillery, hence the term "single malt." Unlike blended whiskeys that may mix different grains and distilleries, single malts focus on purity, terroir, and the unique signature of one distillery's process.

How Single Malt Whiskey is Made:

1. Malting – Barley is soaked, germinated, and dried to produce malt.
   
   
2. Mashing – The malt is ground and mixed with hot water to extract sugars.
   
   
3. Fermentation – Yeast is added to the sugary liquid (wort) to produce alcohol.
   
   
4. Distillation – Typically done twice in copper pot stills for a clean, rich spirit.
   
   
5. Maturation – The whiskey is aged in oak barrels (often ex-bourbon or sherry casks) for at least 3 years, often much longer.
   
   
6. Bottling – Once matured, it's filtered and bottled sometimes at cask strength or with minimal processing.
   
   

Indian Single Malts Are Gaining Global Fame

India's single malt scene has matured dramatically in the past decade. With favorable climatic conditions (especially faster aging due to heat), passionate craftsmanship, and global inspiration, Indian distilleries are now producing world-class single malts that rival traditional Scotch.

Top Single Malt Whiskeys in India (2025)

1. Amrut Fusion – The Pioneer That Put India on the Whiskey Map

A blend of Indian and Scottish barley, Amrut Fusion is globally acclaimed for its bold, smoky notes balanced with sweet tropical undertones. It's won multiple awards and is often the first name in Indian single malts.

Tasting Notes: Peat smoke, dark chocolate, dried fruit ABV: 50%

2. Anytime Whiskey – A Modern Blend of Tradition and Innovation

Crafted by Rajasthan Liquors Limited, Anytime Whiskey is a premium offering that combines the richness of Scotch malts with select Indian grain spirits. With over three decades of experience in premium spirits, the brand emphasizes craftsmanship and quality. Each bottle is a testament to their commitment to delivering brilliant experiences to whiskey enthusiasts across India.

Why it stands out:

• Versatility: Perfect for every occasion, whether celebrating a special moment or unwinding after a long day.
  
  
• Craftsmanship: Aged to perfection in rare casks, incorporating unique yeast strains and a barrel-to-barrel aging process to develop complex and distinctive flavors.
  
  
• Innovation: A spirit that lives and breathes a culture of continuous innovation, experimentation, and creativity.
  
  

Tasting Notes: Rich, bold flavor with a smooth finish ABV: Information not specified on the official website

3. Paul John Edited – A Goan Expression with a Twist

Distilled in Goa, Paul John's Edited is a semi-peated whiskey that bridges smoky Scotch and tropical Indian notes. It's rich, bold, and complex, ideal for seasoned whiskey lovers.

Tasting Notes: Coffee, spice, hints of mint and smoke ABV: 46%

4. Rampur Select – A North Indian Gem

Crafted in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rampur Select is an elegant expression with fruity richness and creamy undertones. Think of it as India's answer to Highland-style whisky.

Tasting Notes: Apple, apricot, honey, vanilla ABV: 43%

5. Woodburns Contemporary Smoked Whiskey – New Age, Bold Style

A newer player, Woodburns brings a lightly smoked character with a modern edge. It's bold, edgy, and uniquely Indian, targeting younger drinkers and experimental palates.

Tasting Notes: Oak smoke, caramel, spice ABV: 42.8%

The Golden Era of Indian Whiskey

India's whiskey scene is no longer just about quantity, it's about craft, story, and quality. Whether you are sipping the trail blazing Amrut Fusion or the smooth and innovative Anytime Whiskey, you are experiencing a new chapter in the global single malt Scotch whiskey narrative, redefined with an Indian twist.