Category Archives: Scotch Whisky

Different Brands of Scotch To Choose From

Make sure you are making it count when you put down your money on a bottle of Scotch. Nonetheless, it can be challenging when you are not sure or have experienced Scotch. So how do you ensure that you will like what you purchase? Moreover, some bottles of Scotch are pretty expensive. After all, how do you know that the price tag is justified? Just because a brand is selling its’ Scotch at an accessible price does not mean that it is intrinsically sub-par.

There are countless Scotch brands to consider with labels describing the aging process to flavor and alcohol content. It is therefore best to know what you are looking for before heading out. Madyasara has compiled a list of well-known brands of Scotch to help guide through and scan store shelves of a liquor shop. We have made it a point to consider numerous factors like taste, type, affordability, history, and more. Here are the 15 most popular Scotch brands to buy in 2024.

Fifteen Most Popular Scotch Brands To Buy In

Aberlour

This is another Speyside brand of Scotch. It offers a diverse catalog of single malt whiskies that are matured in many types of wood casks for varied lengths of time. Aberlour’s flagship bottle of Scotch is its 12-Year Double Cask. This whisky is matured in both conventional oak casks and sherry-seasoned casks. This results in a classically soft and fruity Speyside Scotch. Hints of dry spice in this spirit add extra layers of depth for you to enjoy.

This brand also offers double cask maturation spirits in 16 and 18-year expressions. Both these come with more character and complexity according to their age. However, the most popular spirit in the Aberlour lineup is its A’Bunadh. This name is a Gaelic word for ‘original.’ It is the cask strength expression of the brand. A’Bunadh is bottled at just over 60 percent ABV. This bottle packs quite the punch. Nevertheless, it is the expert maturation of the spirit which keeps it balanced. This Scotch is rich in flavor and yet silky smooth.

Inspired by the original whiskies made by James Fleming, the founder of the brand, A’Bunadh thinks that dilution is a deficiency. However, you cannot go wrong with any of the other Aberlour products. Nevertheless, the A’Bundah flagship bottle kicks off amongst the top five. Moreover, it is available for a very fair price as well considering that it is double-cask 12-year-long.

Ardbeg

It is the first Scotch brand on our list from the Isle of Islay. This region is well known for its rich peat and smoky character. However, peated Scotch is not exclusive to this region. Yet it is fair to say that the Isle of Islay does it best.

Ardbeg was first opened by John Macdougall in 1815. It is one of the oldest distilleries on the isle of Islay. The signature bottle of the brand has always been its 10-year expression, and Ardbeg prides itself on this particular bottle. It is one of the peatiest Scotches on the market. The character pf this spirit is bold and persistent. It may be favorable to some Scotch drinkers but is undoubtedly forceful in comparison to other peated scotches available in the market.

Nevertheless, Ardbeg remains one of the most popular Islay Scotch variety brands for a reason. Some other bottles in the lineup include an 8-Year, a 19-Year, and a 25-Year-Old. The bad news is that Ardbeg Scotches tend to come at a higher price point. It therefore slots down in contrast to quite a few similar brands and bottles.

The Balvenie

This one comes as the runner-up on our list. The Balvenie is a brand of Scotch that has a vast catalog of whisky driven by the unique wood maturation process. It is a Highland brand that is proud to have been making its whisky the same way for over a century now. Balvenie Distillery still employs its own coopers for barrel making. And grows and malts its very own barley as well.

The emphasis and experimentation with wood is what really sets The Balvenie apart. The 12-Year Double Wood bottle is the flagship of this brand. This whisky is aged in ex-bourbon casks before being finished in Oloroso Sherry casks from Spain. It adds an additional nine months before bottling. This practice of wood-finishing was actually pioneered by David Stewart, the former malt master of the brand.

The catalog of the brand includes many other bottles. Including the 16-Year French Oak and a 21-Year Portwood edition of all of The Balvenie’s sought-after bottles, However, it is the esteemed 14-Year Carribean Cask bottle that is most sought after. Nevertheless, this Scotch is rum-cask-finished to intensify the fruity notes. However, it is held in check by 86 proof. Nonetheless, it is one of the very best Scotch whiskies your money can buy. Rejoice as it is often available for less than $100 per bottle.

Bruichladdich

This Islay Scotch is one of the youngest brands of whisky hitting the market only in 2001. It takes great pride and care in the unique terrain and resources that contribute to its list. Bruichladdich was recently granted a B-Corp certification in 2020. This standard is only given to a handful of distilleries. It represents a commitment to balancing profitable business with a societal purpose.

This brand has earned its certification by mindfully making its spirit and operating alongside environmental awareness. Note that Bruichladdich only uses organically grown barley on Islay. This converts its entire operation to 100 percent green energy. However, there is nothing to overlook in the whisky production process.

The Classic Laddie, the brand’s flagship Islay whisky bottle, is factually unpeated. This unique Islay expression puts the barley on full display instead of just peat. Other Bruichladdich Scotch bottles include an 8-year unpeated whisky, and 10 and 11-year expressions as well. Moreover, all signature whiskies of the brand are 100-proof. Bruichladdich is a fairly potent Scotch brand that is more than worthy of garnering a middle spot in our ranking profile.

Glenfiddich

This Scotch is fundamental whenever we are speaking of Highland single malts. In fact, Glenfiddich 12-Year-Old was the best-selling single-malt Scotch whisky in 2017 across the world. It is quite clearly still one of the most popular brands as well. The signature 12-year expression of the brand is just one of many bottles in its catalog. There are four other bottles lined up in the signature series as well. Glenfiddich also markets an Experimental Series, a Grand Series, and a Travel Exclusive. Moreover, the Time Reimagined series includes a Scotch that has been aged for 50 years as well.

This brand was founded by William Grant in 1887. He built the distillery with his bare hands along with the assistance of his children. Glenfiddich has been making Scotch ever since. It has done so with its own private spring source of water. It makes for a unique whisky that distinctly stands out. It is a prime example of what aging can do. This is how Highland single malt should taste like. The price tags on the flagship bottles of the brand keep them fairly accessible. However, you may prefer the higher-ranked Scotch brands as well. But with the classic profile and wide variety of the brand, you can never go wrong with Glenfiddich.

The Glenlivet

This is yet another classic Scotch whisky brand. You are most likely to find these bottles at places where spirits are sold around the world. The Glenlivet is a Speyside Scotch. This category is defined by distilleries located along the River Spey. The whiskies from this region share many characteristics with Highland Scotches. Mainly because they share similar geography. But Speyside Scotches have a certain delicateness and salinity. Eventually, this is what sets them apart.

The Glenlivet 12-Year-Old, of all the Speyside Scotches, is one of the most famous. It is a primary specimen of the Scotch whisky category. This flagship whisky of the brand is super smooth. It is effortless to drink and comes as a great introductory Scotch for beginners. The Glenlivet, outside of its signature bottle, produces whiskies of varying ages and methods as well. The Glenlivet Caribbean Reserve is a great sample. It is aged inside ex-rum casks. This makes for a very unique take on the spirit. It gets even more bright, fruity, and spicy.

General affordability is one of the best aspects of The Glenlivet. This distillery has been making Scotch ever since 1822. It has also remained one of the most popular Scotch brands on the market since then. The Glenlivet is undeniably a reliable option although it misses the top five spots.

Glenmorangie

This is yet another Scotch that provides a fantastic introduction to the spirit. Belonging to the Highland region dating back to 1843, Glenmorangie has a rich history. Its range of single-malts offers an approachable and amiable way to slip into this category. The giraffe, an animal that is nowhere to be found in Scotland, is the brand’s mascot. This is because the stills in the distillery are the same height as the animal. This is how it became the spirit ambassador of the brand.

The range of Scotch whiskies of this brand starts with the Original 10-Year-Old. It progresses to an 18-Year-Old expression. All bottles of Glenmorangie provide a light and soft texture. These spirits contain citrus-forward fruity flavor notes that are most common in Highland Scotch whiskies. Glenmorangie, as a matter of fact, makes excellent-tasting Highland single malts.

The lack of complexity and straightforwardness of Glenmorangie spirits may be a tad boring at times to Scotch drinkers with experienced tastes. But this simplicity itself is what makes this Scotch a great option for beginners. It is also a good option for those who want an all-time great hit. Although it does not rank high on our list, Glenmorangie remains a reliable and timeless brand of Scotch. Moreover, it will not disappoint or break into your bank.

Johnnie Walker

Anyone who knows about Scotch knows Johnnie Walker. The logo of this iconic brand is one of the most recognizable symbols in the spirits industry. They have been at the forefront for over a century now. Moreover, the iconic square-shaped bottles of this brand still continue to stand out on store shelves amongst the competition. They are so prominent that you can practically recognize the bottle almost anywhere inside an airplane or from a high-end cocktail bar.

The signature whiskies in the Johnnie Walker lineup are mostly blended Scotches. They are selectively made by mixing different types of whiskies. It has always been the plan for the brand since the start. This method ensures that they roll out a consistent product with every assortment. Additionally, a variety of products sold by the brand are recognized by color, with labels like Black, Blue, Gold, and Red. They are fairly used to distinguish the age and blends of the spirits.

The globally renowned Johnnie Walker Blue Label is an ultra-smooth premium whisky. However, the high price tag on the bottle is not quite justifiable since it is a blended whisky. Nevertheless, it is immensely popular. The low-priced Black and Red Label are both genuine expressions. They are excellent for mixing. All in all, at its core, Johnnie Walker still remains an introductory Scotch brand.

Lagavulin

This one is one of the most iconic brands of Scotch. The close proximity and long-lasting rivalry between Lagavulin and Laphroaig pit them against each other. Eventually, it determines which Islay distillery stands out on top. The wider range of whiskies from this brand are super rich with balanced peat. Lagavulin comes out on top amongst three Scotch brands with cherished celebrity endorsement.

This distillery was founded by John Johnston in 1816. It is located right on the coastline of Islay. Lagavulin netted benefits from the availability of miles of open peat beside it. Since it has access to the water running through the peat from the Solan Lochs. These factors effectively contribute to the complex and timeless character of the spirit.

The most common and famous expression is the 16-year-old whisky of the brand. However, this bottle is more expensive than other competitors. Nevertheless, it guarantees to be the best that Islay has to offer. Some other expressions of the brand include an 8-Year-Old whisky. The special 11-Year Offerman Edition is created in collaboration with actor Nick Offerman. He portrayed a Lagavulin-loving Ron Swanson on the ‘Parks & Recreation’ sitcom. Other limited releases from the brand have come and gone through the years. Nevertheless, Lagavulin sticks to what it does best. It is and will be an iconic Islay Scotch whisky that will indefinitely remain a leader in the category.

Laphroaig

There is no peated Scotch that is as beloved or exemplary as Laphroaig. Dating back to 1815, this distillery is still seated on the coast of the isle of Islay. It has access to its very own private peat beds. Replicating this Scotch whisky is therefore practically impossible. The peat is briny, robust, and salty. This makes for a brawny whisky that is utterly enjoyable in its intensity.

The signature spirit of this brand is its 10-year expression. This Islay Scotch bottle is affordable. It is an indispensable expression of the realm of peated whisky. However, the lack of variety is the point where Laphroaig comes up short of its competitors. Nevertheless, the Laphroaig 10-year Single Malt is an industry behemoth. But then you only have a very expensive 25-year to consider when you want to enjoy other expressions by the brand.

Then there are special editions and limited releases from the brand as well. Although a varied diversity is definitely lacking, you can try out the Cask Strength and the annual Cáirdeas edition for its ‘Friends of Laphroaig,’ program. Nonetheless, the signature Laphroaig 10-year whisky remains one of the best Islay Scotches on the market. It is enough to earn the brand a decent ranking.

Ledaig

This Scotch brand is one of the best in the market. It is called the Hebrides at home. Ledaig is made at the Tobermory Distillery located on the Isle of Mull. This facility was opened by John Sinclair back in 1798. Sinclair initially was granted a permit only to open a brewery. Eventually, he was able to secure the permit for a distillery.

In spite of the long history, this Scotch only hit the market again in 2019. The Tobermory Distillery was closed for decades following the Great Depression and the Prohibition in the United States. It was finally bought and renovated in the 1990s. Subsequently, it began distilling, maturing, and bottling whisky again. The brand under Tobermory Distillery is a peated one. It produces a core range of scotches including a 10-year and an 18-year whisky. Then you also have its Rioja cask-finished Sinclair Series to go for.

The peat in Ledaig is potent and robust. However, this whisky remains very bright and smooth with its Hebridean barley and malt shining through the dense smoke. Nevertheless, these whiskies are complex in both aroma and flavor. The good news is that they are affordable options. This Scotch is really something to behold from a distillery that is just getting back on track. It is true that you can never go wrong with Ledaig. This is why it is one of the top three Scotch brands today.

The Macallan

Holding the number one spot on our list, this brand of Scotch simply symbolizes excellence. The Macallan was founded in 1824 in the Highlands. The distillery is close to the River Spey and sits on a 485-acre property. The scenery surrounding the facility is a reflection of how astounding this spirit is. As a derivative of Highland single malt with close proximity to the River Spey, this Scotch results in a harmonious fusion between the two.

The two flagship bottles of this brand are the Double Oak and Sherry Oak. Both of these whiskies come in 12-year, 18-year, and 30-year expressions. Another popular bottle of this brand is the Triple Cask Matured. It is aged in both American and European ex-bourbon casks and ex-sherry casks. This provides for an intensely diverse flavor profile. Then there are many other luxury bottles available from the brand as well. They include the Estate series, the M Collection, and Rare Cask.

The Macallan Scotches pay great attention to wood in addition to the malt and barley they use. The distillery engages its own master of wood who oversees and ensures the utmost quality in the seasoning, selection, toasting, and filling processes. They normally start in North America and Spain to end in Scotland. Only The Macallan whiskies are able to display the characters that come through these casks. Efforts are at the root of The Macallan whiskies which make it so celebrated, renowned, and the best Scotch brand you can have in 2024.

Monkey Shoulder

Seasoned Scotch drinkers will argue that single malts reign supreme in comparison to blended Scotches. They usually say that blended varieties should be exclusively reserved for cocktails. Many Scotch fans also prefer to enjoy this whisky when mixed with other ingredients. Blended varieties therefore have a reserved space in Scotch consumption. Monkey Shoulder Scotch Whisky beyond doubt is the best blend for making mixed drinks. This spirit was created specifically for this reason.

Founded by William Grant & Sons in the early 2000s, the Monkey Shoulder brand is a longstanding producer in the Scotch industry. It is a blended malt whisky that is exclusively made up of single-malt Scotches. Monkey Shoulder has a well-rounded body due to the absence of single grains. This allows the spirit to remain dominant when mixed with cocktails. The rich malt and sweet honey notes are cut short by subtle smoke for a well-balanced but complex blended Scotch whisky. This spirit is perfectly fit for enjoying any way you like.

The balance, functionality, and simplicity of this spirit are accompanied by an inviting price point. Monkey Shoulder is a great choice for a home bar if you appreciate Scotch-based mixed drinks. However, it may not be the best for having it neat but is surely better than many Scotch brands that have been ranked higher.

The Singleton

This is yet another younger Scotch brand on the list from a distillery that is as historic as whisky. The whiskies of this brand are made at the Glendullan distillery in Dufftown. This is an iconic location well-known for making Scotch. Opened in 1897, at one point this distillery transported its casks of whisky through a private railway network. However, the Singleton 12-year was launched in 2006, after about a century.

The history behind this Scotch brand shines through the spirit. It includes 12-year, 15-year, and 18-year expressions. The Singleton is one of the more affordable Speyside whiskies that is available in the market. Perhaps this is the main reason why this brand is notable. Imagine not having to pay an exorbitant amount of money to try a Scotch that is aged 15 years. This luxury comes naturally for new Scotch drinkers which otherwise would come at a much heftier cost.

The Scotch is also a great spirit to be used in cocktails. It is one of the few non-blended whiskies that encourage Scotch lovers. The Singletons are soft and citrus-forward. They come with rounded notes of honey and toffee. These spirits create a great base for mixed drinks as well as sipping neat. The Singleton comes somewhere around the center of our list.

Talisker

This Scotch whisky comes from an in-between area of Scotch regions in Scotland. The Talisker Distillery is situated along the coastline of the Isle of Skye. It is technically a part of the Highlands region. However, the unique barley, peat, and seaside influences make this spirit a perfect cross between the Islay and Highland. The catalog of this brand consists of 10-11-15 and 18-year expressions. These whiskies also come along with a variety of other special releases.

Founded in 1830, the Talisker Distillery is the oldest on the Isle. It has been producing excellent whisky since then. The uncommon location of this brand makes it one of the most remote distilleries established in Scotland. On the whole, it translates into an equally unique spirit that morphs multiple classes under one banner.

This is a great brand of Scotch for people who like peated whisky. Especially those who find Laphroaig 10-year-old to be too bold. Nevertheless, Talisker remains a Highland single-malt. It is honey-rich and soft with subtle peat and mellowing smoke. Talisker, especially the Talisker 10-year, an affordable Scotch brand can be put in a category of its own. It is guaranteed to be distinct and exceptional.

The Art of Balance: Rare Limited Edition Bottles

These bottles are some of the oldest whiskies the Scottish distilleries have ever produced. The Glenlivet collection features 12 stand-alone bottles that represent the 12 elements required to craft the single malts from this brand.

Maturing since 1974, The Glenlivet 12 Elements are crafted from two single malt casks that were selected to balance out each other. One is an American oak barrel providing richness and structure to the spirit, and the other is a refilled American oak hogshead tempering the power and intensity of the whisky. This combo allows the character of the spirit to shine.

This exceptional Scotch combines nature and human elements to create an amazing whisky which is a testament to the unique combination of two hand-selected single malt casks. The 12 Elements is one of the oldest official releases of The Glenlivet to date.

Your Glass Indubitably Deserves Some Scotch!

Premium Scotch Whisky Bottles Available In The Markets

Scotland currently has more than 130 distilleries that produce different types of whisky. From single malts to grain spirits, there are several choices for Scotch lovers. You can notice a great diversity in the world of Scotch as restless distillers try to experiment with different types of whiskeys. They want to provide you with an endless list of flavor profiles. They like to incorporate both complexities and balance into the beverage. Let us talk about the premium Scotch whiskeys in the world. You can easily pick the right organic whiskey.

Johnnie Walker Black Label

Almost every bar has at least one bottle of this whisky. The first whisky was prepared by Johnnie Walker in 1820. The company has been engaged in the whisky production process for more than 200 years. This drink has become a benchmark in the Scotch whisky industry.

You can choose this beverage if you love a blend of grain and malt varieties. The whisky will please you with a perfect dose of citrus and smoke.

GlenDronach Revival

GlenDronach Revival is a 15-year-old Scotch that has undergone an evolution in layers. You will enjoy delicate notes of chocolate-covered cherries, cedar, honey, and pecans.

The whisky is aged in oloroso sherry casks. You can even drink it with your favorite milk chocolate. Drop a number of ice cubes into the drink and sip it after a few seconds.

Macallan Double Cask–

Rich in taste, this complex drink is easily accessible. Macallan is a well-known distiller that has won several awards. The trusted distiller started its journey in 1824, and since then, it has been producing whisky with a sweet note. Double Cask is an entry-level spirit. So, if you are drinking Scotch for the first time, you can choose Double Cask.

A single bottle can give you a wide range of notes, including caramel, oak spices, and fruits. You will enjoy a balanced flavor in the Double Cask Scotch whisky.

Glenfarclas

Produced in Speyside, this Scotch whisky is 25 years old. You will enjoy chocolatey, nut, and orange-tasting notes. Glenfarclas is a super affordable yet premium Scotch. The distiller has used an oloroso cask for aging the drink. As the whisky is available with a sherry finish, you can choose it as your after-dinner drink.

Ardbeg Traigh Bhan

If you are ready to pay a big amount for your Scotch whisky, Ardbeg Traigh Bhan is the right choice for you. You will have a different perception of whisky while drinking this beverage.

The distiller used Spanish Oloroso sherry and American oak casks to age the Scotch whisky. You will find a cascade of tastes, including spice, chocolate, and pineapple.

Oban’s Distillers Single Malt Edition

A bottle of Oban provides you with a combination of coastal and sweet tastes. Located in the Highlands, the small distillery has used Fino sherry casks for aging the drink. It is intended to elevate the spirit’s sweetness. It is, of course, a must-try drink produced by the brand. The whisky is available with a comparatively low-price tag.

The single malt has undergone a 14-year aging process in Bourbon casks. The soft, luscious whisky provides you with a full-bodied feel. Besides, you will enjoy floral notes and a honey taste. The distiller has added candied fruits and toasted spices to the drink.

Bowmore Islay

Bowmore blends sweetness and peatiness in a single drink. You will get a delightful sensation while drinking Bowmore Islay. Set up in 1779, the distillery uses different island malts for whisky production. The combined flavor profile has drawn the attention of several Scotch lovers. The sweet honey and lemon notes will satiate you easily. Besides, you will find a long, mellow, and delicious finish.

You can now buy the best organic whiskeys from premium brands. Different distillers have used diverse techniques for distilling the drink. You can select the Scotch whisky that pleases your taste buds.

Add These Top Scotch Whisky Brands In India to Your Home Bar

All Whiskies are not Scotch, but all Scotches are Whisky! Originally made from malted barley, Scotch is a pure and refined beverage. Whisky was first introduced in the late 18th century and was made from wheat and rye. By law, scotch whisky is a legalized term created to protect whisky made in Scotland. It has to be distilled and matured in oak casks for at least three years.

Scotch can be purified to 94.8% ABV. This is higher than bourbon. It has to be bottled at a minimum 40% ABV. Moreover, the number on the bottle is meant to denote the minimum age of the drink.

Current statistics reveal that India is a nation of whisky drinkers. Indians are consuming more than half of the Scotch that is globally sold.

All About Scotch

Scotch could taste like anything. Since it is produced among many distinct regions nowadays. The environmental conditions alongside refining traditions eventually strongly influence the final flavor of the Scotch.

We are in the thick of the holiday season right now. Don’t let the celebrations go dull! It means that it is high time to stock our home bar with the best whiskies in India.

Ring in the festivities! Get into the groove of the season! Take a look at some of the best Scotch brands that are sold in India. We have listed here all the top brands of scotch whiskies available here.

The Best of Scotch Whiskies in India

Scotch whiskies complement the holiday season! So, choose and pick from our list to usher in the New Year! Wish for better days to roll in!

Antiquity: This comes in 2 variants: Antiquity Blue and Antiquity Rare. Blended with grain spirit, Antiquity Blue has a rich woody aroma. Antiquity Rare is a blend of Indian malts matured in oak casks. It is then amalgamated with scotch whisky and has a golden color.
Ballantine’s: This whisky’s flavor is dependent on fingerprint malts. It is blended with fifty single malts and four single grains. This favorite brand has won several accolades and awards for its products. It is the world’s second-largest-selling Scotch whisky. Ballantine stands out for its smokey barley, creamy vanilla, and sweet caramel flavors.
Black Label: Black Label is a true icon! The archetypal square bottle makes it one of the world’s most recognizable scotch whiskeys. Moreover, it is recognized as the benchmark for all other brands. Be it on its own or as a mixer, Black Label can be enjoyed in any form. It is, however, most often recommended to have it with soda. This scotch whisky is created using only spirits aged for at least 12 years or more, coming from the four corners of Scotland. It is then matured in heavily charred old oak casks. Black Label has a smooth, deep, complex character along with a sweet, fruity aroma.
Bruichladdich: This brand’s distillery was built in 1881 by the Harvey brothers. It sits opposite the western shore of Loch Indaal on Islay. This distillery produces mainly single-malt Scotch whisky. It is one of eight working distilleries located on the island. Bruichladdich has characteristics of apple, butterscotch, and lemon.
Chivas Regal: Tracing its roots back to 1801, Chivas Regal is a world-famous scotch produced by Chivas Brothers. This distillery is the oldest operating Highland distillery. It is a very refined blended scotch whisky, with herbs, honey, and fruits springing forth on the palate. Experts describe Chivas Regal as “the blend for grown-ups”. This scotch whisky is awarded an impressive 9 out of 10 by deft professionals. Chivas Regal sales grew by 61% between 2002 and 2008.
The Dalmore: The Dalmore is one of the most legendary distilleries in the world, It was founded by Alexander Matheson in 1839. This spirit undergoes a unique maturation process. A variety of expressions of The Dalmore include being matured in 2 precious wooden casks The American white oak ex-bourbon casks and exclusive aged sherry casks from Gonzalez Byass. The Dalmore with orange, chocolate, and coffee flavors is undeniably one of the richest, full-bodied scotch whisky in the market.
Glen: Glen Grant is a hugely popular young malt whisky sold in Europe. Normally drunk with cola, it is usually marketed as a very mild, light five-year-old. Scotland’s Highlands has fresh air and bright sunlight that imparts its distinctive, pale golden appearance alongside a clean taste to the whisky. Go for it! Glen Grant is worth laying your hands on.
Glenfiddich: It is a Speyside single malt Scotch whisky produced by the Glenfiddich Distillery which was founded in the year 1886. The word Glenfiddich means “valley of the deer” in Scottish Gaelic. This is why its logo is a Stag. This exceptional spirit is matured in many different casks including Bourbon whiskey barrels from America, Rum casks from the Caribbean, and Sherry butts from Jerez in Spain. It presently accounts for about 30% of all single malt sales worldwide. Moreover, Glenfiddich was the first single malt to be marketed outside Scotland. It goes mild and clean on the palate along with a fruity aroma and a sweet, creamy mouthfeel.
The Glenlivet: This distillery was founded in 1824. The Glenlivet brand is the largest-selling single malt whisky sold in the US. It is also the second largest-selling single malt brand globally. Glenlivet is a pretty refreshing malt and packs in a citrusy punch. Along with the smooth aroma of grapefruit, lemon, and juicy citrus notes that linger on even after you’ve completed your drink.
Imperial Blue: This scotch whisky, favorite of the masses, is famous for being enjoyable in any form. Be it with mixers or straight over ice, Imperial Blue is a perfect blend of Indian grain spirits and imported scotch malts for exquisite smoothness. Originally launched in 1997, Imperial Blue has preserved the tagline for its brands in the form of ‘Men Will Be Men’. This brand is quite popular in Southern India.

Jim Bean Bourbon Black: Can your list of whiskey ever be complete without a Jim Bean? Probably not, this is a classic drink and Indian favorite at INR 4,300 worth every paisa that money can buy. With caramel and warm oak, this one of the best whiskies elegantly packaged in a glass bottle is a must-have product for the holiday season. Claim your right to savor delicacy in every sip!
Johnnie Walker: Johnnie Walker originated in the Scottish town of Kilmarnock. It is a brand of Scotch whisky now owned by Diageo. This brand was first established by grocer John Walker. Johnnie Walker now is the most widely distributed brand of blended Scotch whisky in the world. It is sold in almost every country across continents. Johnnie Walker on the nose is all about honey with thick caramel notes and subtle nutmeg spice. Along with sweet, spicy vanilla and a sweet finish, smooth elements do come through clean on the palate.
Jura: This distillery was founded in the year 1810. It is a Scotch whisky distillery on the island of Jura. And is the only legal distillery operating on the island of Jura as of now. It sits in the middle of Craighouse, with less than 200 people living on the island. Craighouse is the island’s biggest town and is the heart of the island community. With notes of honey and toffee, Jura is an easy-sipping enjoyable spirit.
Kilchoman: Situated in a picturesque background, the Kilchoman distillery began production in the year 2005. It produces single-malt scotch whisky. Kilchoman uses barley grown on-site and releases separate bottlings. The blended spirit is aged in bourbon and sherry casks and has vanilla and smoky caramel notes.
Lagavulin: This brand was founded in the year 1816. It is representative of Islay-style malt. Lagavulin is exclusively matured in ex-bourbon casks. It gives the spirit a robust flavor, uncompromising smoke, and a salted-fish character. This scotch whisky still remains a solid favorite of countless malt fans worldwide. With breath-taking views over Lagavulin Bay, there are 5 bottles of Lagavulin navy made at a distillery in the south of Islay.
Laphroaig: This distillery sits on the south coast of Islay. The scotch whisky it produces is celebrated for being the world’s richest single-malt scotch. Laphroaig portrays an award-winning family of whiskeys that are the end result of a spirit matured in a range of different woods and casks. Laphroaig is the product of a 200-year-old tradition of unique techniques for making whisky. It is loved by those who enjoy its medicinal, and smoky flavor.
Macallan: This distillery was founded in the year 1824. It is located in Moray and was one of the first Scottish distilleries to be legally licensed. It was reported in 2009 that Macallan is the world’s third-largest-selling single malt and second-largest-selling whisky by value. The characteristics and styles of Macallan include dried fruit, fruitcake, and nutmeg. Both, effort and time invested in the making of Macallan are elaborate and the resultant spirit is matured only in oak sherry casks.
Monkey Shoulder: This is a fairly modern scotch whisky. Monkey Shoulder Scotch is a vatting of 3 unique single malt whiskeys. It pays tribute to the malt men who suffered to produce fine whisky alongside their dedication to quality. The malts are first matured in ex-Bourbon casks. And only then are vatted together in small batches for up to 6 months. Subsequently, they are bottled at 40% ABV. The fallout spirit is slightly creamy with hints of woody spice and citrus having characters of butterscotch, honey, popcorn, and vanilla.
Old Pulteney: This distillery produces the Old Pulteney single malt whisky at a number of ages. The spirits are matured in ex-bourbon casks and feature flavors of herbs, spices, and toffee. The Old Pulteney whisky is deep amber in color and has a clean, dry finish. It also is faintly salty along with a slight sherry note.
Royal Salute: The Royal Salute brand of Scotch whisky produced by the Chivas Brothers was founded in 1801 in Scotland. The brand is named after the conventional 21-gun salute. The Royal Salute scotch whisky is aged for at least 21 years. It is a luxurious, and distinctive spirit. The first batches of the spirit were launched at the crowning of Queen Elizabeth II. Royal Salute whisky is loved for its dark chocolate, honey, and oak flavor notes.
Talisker: Founded in the year 1830, the Talisker distillery is an Island single malt Scotch whisky distillery based in Carbost, Scotland. Spirits produced at this facility are most frequently matured in American oak casks. It is loved all over the world for its marine character. Talisker has a fresh and fragrant nose and pungent smoke with black pepper along with a touch of brine and dry barley. The orchard fruit in the spirit provides a beautiful and delicate balance to the whisky.

With more and more international brands coming to India, alcohol is a big world after all. People now are more welcoming, and proudly say, ‘we love our drinks!’ What are you waiting for? Grab a glass of your favorite whisky right now! 2023 is the best time for you to try them out!

FAQs

Which Scotch is the smoothest in India?

Chivas Regal 12 Years beyond doubt. It is the smoothest whiskey in India.

Which Whisky is the # 1 in India?

The most popular Indian whisky brand is Officer’s Choice. It also happens to be the world’s largest-selling spirit brand. The producer Allied Blenders & Distillers is one of the largest spirit brands in India.

Is Scotch Whisky good for health?

Not on commission, or by health experts; but Scotch Whisky has been praised by real people across the world. It has the ability to lower the risk of blood clots, and dementia, and prevents heart attacks, and strokes. It even fights cancers. It boils down to the ellagic acid that is found in Scotch Whisky. Ellagic acid is a potent antioxidant.