Scotch whisky is made in India, although it is not technically called Scotch whisky. Scotch whisky refers specifically to whisky that is made in Scotland and follows specific regulations laid out by the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA). However, India does produce its own single malt whisky, which is similar in style to Scotch whisky.
One of the most well-known Indian single malt whisky brands is Amrut. Amrut distilleries, located in Bangalore, India, started producing single malt whisky in the early 2000s. Amrut, which means ‘nectar of life’ in Sanskrit, quickly gained recognition in the whisky world when Jim Murray, a renowned whisky critic, gave it a high rating of 82 out of 100.
Amrut whisky is manufactured at the main distillery in Mysore Road, Bangalore. The distillery uses locally sourced ingredients, including Indian barley, to produce their whisky. The whisky is then aged in oak barrels for a period of 4 to 4.5 years, giving it a unique flavor profile.
The Indian climate, with its high temperatures and humidity, accelerates the aging process of whisky compared to traditional whisky-producing regions like Scotland. This means that Indian single malts often have a more mature flavor profile at a younger age than their Scottish counterparts.
Amrut whisky has gained international recognition for its quality and unique character. It has won several awards, including the Liquid Gold Award from Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible and the Best World Whisky award from the World Whiskies Awards.
While Amrut is the most well-known Indian single malt whisky, there are other distilleries in India producing their own versions of single malt whisky as well. These include Paul John and Rampur, both of which have also received accolades for their whiskies.
While India does not produce Scotch whisky, it does produce its own single malt whiskies that are similar in style. Amrut, Paul John, and Rampur are some of the notable Indian single malt whisky brands that have gained recognition in the global whisky scene. These whiskies showcase the unique flavors and characteristics that can be achieved through whisky production in India’s climate.