Is Indian Single Malt Disrupting the Global Liquor Market?
Indian single malt whisky has been gaining considerable attention and acclaim in recent years, posing a significant disruption to the global liquor market traditionally dominated by Scotch, Irish, and American whiskies. Here’s a look at how Indian single malt is making its mark.
In the last few years , Indian single malt whiskeys have made substantial inroads into domestic as well as International market .
The market for India single malts have grown by 144% approximately from 2021-22 compared to scotch that grew by 32% .
Few key reasons which has helped gain popularity of Indian Single Brands are:
High-Quality Production
- Craftsmanship and Quality: Indian distilleries, such as Amrut, Paul John, and Rampur, are producing single malts that rival the quality of well-known global brands. These distilleries use traditional methods combined with innovative techniques to create unique and high-quality whiskies.
- Climate Advantage: The Indian climate, with its high temperatures and humidity, accelerates the maturation process. This means that an Indian single malt can achieve a rich and complex flavor profile in a shorter time compared to whiskies from cooler climates.
International Awards and Recognition
- Award-Winning Whiskies: Indian single malts have been winning prestigious awards and receiving high ratings from whisky connoisseurs and critics worldwide. Recently following awards were bagged by Indian Single Malts.
- Godawan 100 – Crowned “Single Malt Whisky of the Year” at the 2024 London Spirits Competition with a score of 96 points .
- Indri Dru – Won the title of “Best Indian Single Malt” at the World Whiskies Awards 2024.
- Rampur Asava –Awarded “Best World Whisky” in the 2023 John Barleycorn Awards
- Paul John Oloroso Select Cask –Secured the “Best Single Malt in the Indian Whisky category” at the International Whisky Competition 2024 with a rating of 93.68
- Kadamba – Named the “Best Indian Single-Malt Whisky” at the Icons of Whisky awards, presented by Whisky Magazine in the UK.
- Global Presence:These whiskies are now available in numerous international markets, including the UK, US and 25 other nations.
Innovation and Diversity
- Unique Expressions: Indian distilleries are experimenting with different types of casks, such as sherry, port, and rum casks, to create unique expressions. This innovation caters to diverse palates and preferences, attracting a broader audience.
- Diverse Flavors: The use of locally sourced ingredients and the influence of Indian spices and fruits contribute to the distinctive and diverse flavor profiles.
Market Impact
Growing Exports: With market demand from 25 countries ,export of Indian single malts is increasing, with more consumers around the world developing a taste for these whiskies. This growth in exports is challenging the dominance of traditional whisky-producing regions.
WLF View
Indian single malt whisky is indeed disrupting the global liquor market. With its combination of high-quality production, competitive pricing, innovative expressions, and growing international recognition.
Consumption of Indian malts is projected to continue growing at a rate of 13% per year until 2027, whereas Scotch whisky is expected to grow at 8% annually.
Consumption of Indian malts is projected to continue growing at a rate of 13% per year until 2027, whereas Scotch whisky is expected to grow at 8% annually.