7 Best Indian Rums and Single Malt Whiskies – News18

Are you a connoisseur of fine spirits? If you consider yourself a true aficionado, it’s time to put your taste buds to test with 7 of these best Indian single malt whiskies and rums. From Camikara, which is India’s first pure cane juice rum and the only Indian rum to ever win a gold medal at the prestigious IWSC Awards, to Indri-Trini, India’s first triple-cask single malt – this list is made up of proud homegrown brands that are shining light on the country’s rich history of rums and whiskies. How many have you tried?

1. CamikaraAn eloquent name derived from the Sanskrit term for ‘liquid gold’, Camikara is a truly exquisite creation that takes pride in being India’s first pure cane juice rum. Unlike most rums that are prepared with molasses or by products of sugarcane, Camikara is a sipping rum naturally aged in ex-bourbon barrels. Camikara 12YO is aged for 12 years. This limited edition is bottled at a strength of 50% ABV and contains no added sugar, flavour or colour. Rediscovering an age-old rum drinking tradition in India, Camikara is the first Indian rum ever to win a gold medal at the prestigious IWSC Awards 2023.After the successful launch of Camikara 12YO, Piccadily Distilleries launched another variant that undergoes an extensive aging process of 3 years. Camikara 3YO offers a masterful alchemy of oak and cane juice spirit. Subtle oak and char-induced smoky notes form a sturdy foundation allow the sugarcane congeners to gracefully evolve. The outcome is a well-rounded and an impeccably balanced spirit. Bottled at 42.8% ABV, whether savoured neat or as the foundation of your preferred cocktail, it serves as a canvas for the true essence of the cane juice to shine through.Price-Camikara 3YO- Haryana at INR 1,500; Maharashtra at INR 3500; Rajasthan at INR 2,410; Uttarakhand at INR 1,830; Goa at INR 1800; Assam at INR 2200 and Madhya Pradesh at INR 3385. Camikara 12YO- Haryana at INR 6000 and Goa at INR 6500
2. Indri-TriniHaving won more than 15 global awards so far, Indri-Trini has bagged the Best ‘New World’ Whiskey title by the famous US based alco-bev platform, VinePair. The recognition further strengthens Indri’s position as one of the fastest growing Indian single malt brands, both in India and overseas. Launched in 2021, Indri-Trini is India’s first triple cask single malt bottled at 42.8% abv. Indri or Indriya in Sanskrit refers to the 5 senses – smell, taste, touch, sight and sound. Trini literally alludes to the three coveted casks that the single malt is matured in—ex-bourbon, ex-French wine and PX Sherry. The smooth single malt carries a deep amber colour and notes of caramelized pineapple, vanilla, black tea, raisins, honey and a long aftertaste of sweet fruity flavours that leave you wanting for more.Price: Haryana: INR 3,000/-; Delhi: INR 3,700/-; Maharashtra: INR 5,400/-
3. Pipa Rum‘Pipa’, a new rum, honors Goa’s 450-year blend of Portuguese and local influences, merging regional flavors with Portuguese heritage. Crafted in Goa, it’s distilled from jaggery spirit and aged in Portuguese Ruby Port wine barrels, with a subtle blend of Black Pepper, Cinnamon, and Clove. Its meticulous infusion of spices yields a rich, nuanced spirit, offering a smooth palate akin to dark chocolate with sea salt, and hints of roasted hazelnuts and figs. Ideal for sipping neat or as a base for cocktails, ‘Pipa’ stands as a prized addition to any collection, embodying Goa’s cultural richness.Price- Goa: Starts from INR 3000/-
4. KametTaking inspiration from Uttarakhand’s Mount Kamet, this single malt whisky is crafted at a distillery in Kurukshetra. Utilizing locally sourced six-row barley, the whisky undergoes distillation in copper pot stills and matures in a blend of ex-Bourbon American Oak, ex-wine French Oak, and ex-Sherry casks. This unique maturation process imparts a vinous touch uncommon in most single malts, which typically use only ex-Bourbon casks. As you savor Kamet, expect to encounter notes of caramel, dark chocolate, and raisins melding seamlessly with distinctive oak spice flavors, resulting in a warm and nutty finish.Price: Starts from INR 2800/-
5. SĪTÄRĀ Botanical Spiced RumHailing from Spaceman Spirits Lab Private Limited (SSLPL), the creators of the esteemed Indian craft gin Samsāra, comes a new entrant to the craft rum scene, SĪTÄRĀ. Their latest offering, the Botanical Spiced Rum, blends column and pot distilled Indian rums. Distinguishing itself with a lengthier maturation process, this variant is infused with seven carefully selected botanicals, resulting in a spiced rum boasting a uniquely Indian flavor profile. Among the botanicals utilized are Cinnamon, Ginger, Orange, Hibiscus, Vanilla, Coffee, and Cacao Beans.Price: Goa at INR 1350/- (750ml)
6. Rampur AsavaIntroducing Rampur Asava, an exquisite single malt whisky that captures the essence of Indian craftsmanship and tradition. Crafted in the foothills of the Himalayas, Rampur Asava pays homage to its rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of its surroundings. This distinguished whisky is meticulously distilled using the finest barley and pure mountain water, ensuring unparalleled quality and taste. What sets Rampur Asava apart is its unique finishing process, where the whisky is matured in premium red wine casks, infusing it with subtle fruity notes and a velvety texture. With each sip, experience a harmonious blend of oak, caramel, and spices, culminating in a smooth and satisfying finish. Elevate your drinking experience with Rampur Asava, a true masterpiece of Indian craftsmanship.Price- Mumbai at INR 12500/-(750 ml)
7. Segredo White RumSegredo White Rum is a testament to the purity and craftsmanship of Indian distillation. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the rum offers a crisp and refreshing drinking experience. Distilled to perfection, this premium white rum captures the essence of tropical paradise with every sip. Whether enjoyed on its own or as the base for your favorite cocktail, Segredo White Rum promises a journey of flavor that transports you to sun-soaked beaches and gentle ocean breezes. With its smooth texture and delicate hints of sugarcane, Segredo White Rum is the perfect choice for those seeking a taste of luxury in every pour.Price: Starting from INR 1,500/- in Goa