Every cask loses liquid during maturation. Distillers call this the Angel’s Share. It is evaporation through the staves, but it is not only a loss of volume. The changing mix of alcohol, water and air inside the cask quietly rewrites flavour.
Temperature, humidity, air flow, cask size and warehouse style all change how fast evaporation happens and what is lost. In humid, cooler stores the spirit tends to lose more ethanol and hold water. In hot, drier stores water can be lost faster than ethanol. That shift matters because alcohol and water extract different things from oak and drive different reactions over time.
Ethanol loss: When ethanol escapes faster than water, the alcohol by volume (ABV) falls. Lower ABV favours extraction of water soluble compounds such as ellagitannins, gallic acid and vanillic acid. These add gentle vanilla, light nuttiness and woody spice. The overall profile usually feels softer.
Water loss: When water evaporates faster, the ABV rises. Higher ABV pulls more alcohol soluble compounds such as whisky lactone, vanillin and longer chain esters. Expect richer vanilla, coconut and riper fruit notes like apple and pineapple from esters such as ethyl hexanoate.
Flavour concentration: Each year there is less liquid in the cask. What remains becomes more intense. Vanillin, furfural and long chain esters stand out more clearly. Older casks can feel almost syrupy on the palate.
Oxidation: Evaporation creates headspace and oxygen enters through the wood. Oxygen turns ethanol into acetaldehyde and then acetic acid. Acids and alcohols react to form fruity esters. Phenolic smoke softens into leather, spice and dried fruit.
Volatile shift: Lighter aroma molecules leave the cask more readily. Bright esters such as ethyl butyrate and isoamyl acetate, and aldehydes like acetaldehyde, can drop away. Heavier, more persistent aromas then take the lead.
pH drift: Acetic acid, with smaller roles from formic and succinic acids, accumulates over time. pH falls slightly. This changes extraction rates from oak and nudges oxidation pathways, adding complexity.
The Angel’s Share is more than a poetic loss. It is one of the main forces that decides whether a spirit leans fruity, spicy, nutty or rich. In Scotland it may mean a slow, steady transformation over decades. In Jamaica it can mean rapid concentration and bold flavour development within a few short years. Years do not translate one to one – the chemistry takes a different path, and so does the flavour.
John Angus is a UK based chemist and whisky educator who shares the science of flavour through his newsletter, The Distilled Edit. Connect on LinkedIn at http://linkedin.com/in/john-angus, read the newsletter at https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-distilled-edit-7339239882814308352, and explore whisky flavour infographics at https://payhip.com/SpiritChemistry.
Suntory Global Spirits is deepening its imprint in India’s thriving travel retail sector with a clear focus on premiumisation and experiential retail. Mandeep Singh Thukral, Senior Regional Commercial Manager, GTR India, Suntory Global Spirits, outlines the group’s strategic expansion and growing resonance among discerning Indian consumers, especially with the launch of the Bowmore Appellations Collection, now exclusively available at Delhi Duty Free and Ospree Duty Free, Mumbai (Arrivals).
Mandeep Singh Thukral, Senior Regional Commercial Manager, GTR India, Suntory Global Spirits
This exclusive single malt series features four rare, age-statement expressions, each finished in casks from celebrated European wine regions, fusing Islay’s signature smokiness with rich global terroirs. “The Bowmore Appellations Collection reflects our commitment to premium storytelling and innovation in the travel retail channel,” notes Thukral.
Expanding Footprint with Premium Spirits
India’s travel retail market is on a growth trajectory, propelled by surging international and domestic passenger movement and a strong appetite for luxury offerings. Suntory Global Spirits has positioned itself strategically with a comprehensive portfolio that spans across iconic Japanese whiskies—Yamazaki, Hibiki, Hakushu, Chita, and Toki—under The House of Suntory. This is complemented by American legends Jim Beam and Maker’s Mark, Islay favourites Bowmore and Laphroaig, and premium white spirits Roku Gin and Haku Vodka. Notably, Suntory’s portfolio also includes India-specific expressions tailored to local tastes, underscoring a nuanced and market-sensitive approach.
Creating Awareness Through Immersive Experiences
Suntory Global Spirits is not only selling bottles—it’s offering experiences. At the flagship Delhi and Mumbai duty-free outlets, the company has curated immersive shop-in-shop boutiques. These spaces feature Kigumi-style wooden lattice architecture, Marumado-inspired digital screens, Zen garden podiums, and interactive digital panels exploring artistic collaborations, including with Japan’s Chiso Kimono House.
A dedicated section on The Art of Japanese Gifting, complete with customisable Kandji cards, further enhances the shopping journey, reflecting the Japanese spirit of Omotenashi—wholehearted hospitality. “These installations aim to educate and engage, turning a duty-free visit into a meaningful cultural moment,” adds Thukral.
Capitalising on India’s Single Malt Surge
Recent data from the IWSR shows Indian Single Malts (ISMs) overtaking Scotch Single Malts in domestic sales for the first time in 2024, growing by over 25% this year following 75% growth in 2023. This transformation signals a distinct consumer pivot towards premium, character-rich whiskies.
“Such growth validates our long-term investment in India,” says Thukral. “While our Japanese whiskies continue to lead with global prestige, our Scotch single malts—including Bowmore and Laphroaig—are also seeing increasing demand.”
The introduction of travel retail exclusives like Bowmore Appellations is a strategic move to capture this discerning customer base.
Beyond India: Global Footprint with Local Relevance
The same emphasis on curation and premium offerings applies across other key travel retail markets like Dubai International Airport and Singapore Changi Airport. While the core lineup remains consistent, each market receives tailored activations and launches to cater to regional preferences.
The Kogei Collection – Japanese Kimono Edition (2024) and the Bowmore Appellations Collection, both GTR exclusives, have been rolled out in these locations, amplifying global brand synergy while respecting local consumer nuances.
Market Share and Future Pipeline
With a 5.5% share in the Indian market, Suntory Global Spirits is seeing robust growth—particularly at international airports, where average basket sizes and conversion rates are significantly higher. “It’s not just about volume, but the quality and aspiration behind each purchase,” says Thukral.
Looking ahead, the brand promises a pipeline of innovative, limited-edition expressions designed exclusively for travel retail. These are aimed at travellers who seek more than just a purchase—they seek a story.
“Our mission is to offer travellers a deeper connection to our brands—be it through craftsmanship, cultural heritage, or exclusive taste journeys,” concludes Thukral. “And India remains central to that vision.”
After a successful debut in India, Indri Single Malt Indian Whisky has launched its limited edition ‘City Series’ global with the Dubai Duty Free Series. This special edition features two distinct and exclusively crafted Single Cask expressions — Sauternes Cask and Oloroso Sherry Cask — each bottled at a bold 58.5% ABV, created specifically for discerning global travellers, whisky connoisseurs and collectors at one of the world’s busiest international airports.
Adding to the exclusivity, each bottle is individually numbered with only 210 bottles of the Sauternes Cask and 348 bottles of the Oloroso Sherry Cask available worldwide. These rare expressions are a true collector’s delight, showcasing Indri’s signature craftsmanship and India’s rising prominence in the world of fine single malts.
“Crafting the City Series has been a journey of storytelling through flavour. For the Dubai editions, we wanted to capture the city’s dual essence—its deep-rooted traditions and its modern, global outlook. Both the Oloroso Sherry and Sauternes cask expressions reflect that harmony through bold character, complexity and elegance. These are not just whiskies, they are our tribute to Dubai in a bottle,” said Surrinder Kumar, Master Blender, Piccadily Distilleries.
“With the City Series, we aim to create rare experiences through our whiskies by capturing the soul of great cities around the world. Dubai, with its global flair and cultural richness, was a natural choice for our first international release,” said Madhu Kanna, Head International Business, Piccadily Distilleries.
The Indri City Series Oloroso Sherry Cask expression opens with a rich nose of sweet caramel, subtle smoke, and hints of leather, vanilla, dried fruits, and roasted nuts. On the palate, it reveals a warm, fruit-forward character with layers of toffee, gentle spices, elegant nuttiness, and earthy undertones. The finish is long, sweet, and delicately smoky, leaving a refined and lingering impression.
The Indri City Series Sauternes Cask expression offers a rich nose of dried apricot, peach, honey, and roasted nuts, with soft vanilla and a sweet, fruity cupcake-like aroma. The palate unfolds with layers of honey, butterscotch, dry apricots, and roasted nuts, enhanced by notes of pineapple, gentle oak, and warm spice. The finish is medium to long, leaving a lingering sweetness balanced by subtle oak and a vibrant fruity lift.
Following the successful Bengaluru Duty Free edition, Indri continues to make bold strides in international markets, firmly establishing itself as one of the most exciting new names in global whisky. It is priced at about USD150.
Teacher’s Whisky has unveiled a new identity, signaling a bold new chapter. The new look brims with modernity yet remains anchored in timeless tradition, celebrating over 195 years of character, conviction, and quality, states a press release.
“True to the vision of our founder William Teacher, the blend continues to offer its signature smoothness and full flavour crafted from a high malt content and distinctive smoky notes. This consistency crafted over 190 years has made Teacher’s a trusted choice for whisky drinkers across the globe.”
The evolved identity speaks to today’s premium whisky consumer – confident, globally attuned, and deeply appreciative of quality. Developed in collaboration with Design Bridge & Partners, London – one of the most awarded global brand design agencies – the refreshed identity spans from a refined label to an elevated bottle structure, crafted to signal depth, substance, and distinction. At its heart lies the iconic WT hallmark, a proud tribute to founder William Teacher, honouring his legacy of integrity and conviction.”
“With this bold new packaging, we’re not just refreshing the look of Teacher’s – we’re reaffirming the values that have shaped its nearly 200-year legacy,” said Rishi Walli, Senior Director – Marketing, Suntory Global Spirits.
“This evolution honours our rich heritage while introducing a contemporary edge that resonates with today’s culturally fluent consumer. It’s a bold expression of our commitment to evolve with the times, while staying true to the spirit of quality and character that defines our portfolio,” he added.
Whether through its high malt content, cask maturation in ex-Bourbon barrels, or the presence of Ardmore’s signature fingerprint malt, every bottle of Teacher’s continues its legacy. With its debut in Uttarakhand, the identity sets the stage for a nationwide rollout.
DŌAAB India Craft Whisky awarded Gold with 95 points at the Berlin International Spirits Competition 2025, where it was also bestowed with the coveted title of “India Whisky of the Year 2025”.
This milestone triumph underscores DŌAAB’s commitment to redefining the Indian whisky narrative through a seamless blend of heritage, innovation, and uncompromising quality. The brand’s debut expression, 01 Six Blind Men and the Elephant, encapsulates the essence of creative exploration and craftsmanship. Aged exclusively in 100% ex-bourbon barrels, this limited-edition single malt offers an evocative journey of flavour, a sensorial celebration rooted in Indian tradition and elevated by modern expression.
On the nose, it bursts with tropical fruits, golden honey, and creamy vanilla, elegantly intertwined with notes of dried dates, toffee, and charred oak. The palate unfolds with layered richness, nutty barley malts, cinnamon, warm spices, and toasted almonds, finishing in a long, refined trail of vanilla, coconut, and mellow oak. With only 500 casks ever produced, DŌAAB stands as a bold and rare tribute to India’s evolving whisky identity.
Further solidifying its global credentials, DŌAAB also clinched Silver at the prestigious International Spirits Challenge 2025 in London a competition known for its rigorous standards and international acclaim. This is in addition to its earlier recognition at the London Spirits Competition 2025, where it was awarded Bronze with 89 points. DŌAAB India Craft Whisky has been also hailed as Indian Single Malt Whisky of the Year 2025 nationally.
Shekhar Swarup, Joint Managing Director, Globus Spirits Ltd., said, “To be named India Whisky of the Year and win at the world’s most respected spirits competitions is an extraordinary honour. DŌAAB is not just a whisky, it’s our bold statement to the world about what Indian craftsmanship can achieve. These international recognitions, from Berlin to London, reaffirm our commitment to pushing boundaries and setting new global benchmarks in quality, creativity, and authenticity.”
Amrut Distilleries from Bengaluru has walked away with several awards at the recently concluded 2025 edition of the San Francisco World Spirits Competition (SFWSC). Amrut made history by becoming the only Indian distillery to take home three Double Golds and an additional Gold.
The Double Gold winners are Amrut Fusion Single Malt; Amrut Indian Single Malt; and the Amrut Kurinji Indian Single Malt, while Amrut Peated Indian Single Malt bagged a Gold.
It was in 2010 that Amrut Fusion really put Amrut on the world map when Jim Murray, author of the Whisky Bible declared Fusion as the third best whisky in the world. Since then, there has been no looking back for Amrut, with the Indian market also standing up and taking notice.
At the San Francisco competition, it was Amrut Fusion which captured the imagination of the judges. Amrut Fusion, the brand ambassador of Indian Single Malt, is sourced from barleys from two distinct regions – Himalayas and peated barley from Scotland. It is distilled and matured separately in both old and new American oak barrels at the Benguluru distillery.
Amrut Indian Single Malt is the backbone of the brand’s identity. Using locally sourced barley and traditional techniques, Amrut captures the essence of the Indian terroir. The Amrut Peated Indian Single Malt offers a layered drinking experience.
The relatively newer Amrut Kurinji has quickly made its mark by portraying a different side of Indian whisky – one that’s unorthodox, adventurous, and expressive. It’s part of a new generation of spirits that aren’t afraid to take risks, much like the independent bottlers that inspired it. Bottled at 46% ABV, Kurinji epitomises the essence of Indian craftsmanship and terroir. Named after the Kurinji flower which blooms every 12 years in the Nilgiri hills, the whisky pays homage to the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Rakshit N Jagdale, Managing Director of Amrut Distilleries, said, “We are extremely pleased to receive this award from such a prestigious forum. It reaffirms that we are crafting spirits of truly world-class repute, and strengthens our resolve in the continued pursuit of delivering exceptional quality to our consumers.”
Angus Dundee recently unveiled its latest expression – the 2012 vintage Tomintoul 12 Year Old Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish. This annual release has been crafted by its Master Distiller, Robert Fleming, who selected single malt distilled in 2012, initially matured in exceptional ex-bourbon American oak casks.
The single malt is then finished in the finest Oloroso Sherry butts sourced from Andalucía, Spain, adding a rich layer of complexity. On the nose, there is sweet aromas of dried fruits, crème caramel, and roasted nuts. The palate reveals buttery layers of golden syrup and brittle toffee, while the finish is long and warming, with notes of maple flapjacks, candied pecans and warming wood spices.
The Oloroso Sherry casks elevate Tomintoul’s character, imparting deep fruit flavours and creating a whisky with exceptional depth.
D’YAVOL Inception, the flagship blended malt Scotch whisky from D’YAVOL Luxury Spirits, has been awarded Gold at the prestigious Berlin International Spirits Competition (BISC) 2025. The Berlin International Spirits Competition stands out as the only European spirits competition judged exclusively by trade buyers, including sommeliers, beverage directors, and retail experts from across the continent. Spirits, RTDs, and non-alcoholic spirits are evaluated based on category and actual price, ensuring a real-world assessment of quality and value.
Shah Rukh Khan, Co-Founder, D’YAVOL, says, “Consistent recognitions like these fuels our drive to keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards. It’s always rewarding to see our efforts acknowledged on a global stage.”
Inception is a blend of eight rare single malts, selected from Scotland’s whisky regions — Speyside, Highland, Lowland, and the Islands. Aged up to 12 years, Inception undergoes an extended maturation in first-fill Tawny Port and rare Madeira casks, adding layers of depth and richness.
Launched in 2023, this non-chill filtered whisky preserves its full depth of flavour, mouthfeel, and character. Its complex profile unfolds with rich notes of dark chocolate, dried fruit, and oak spice, complemented by subtle hints of smoked wood, ripe plums, spiced vanilla, and a gentle smokiness.
Bunty Singh, Co-Founder, D’YAVOL, says, “Winning multiple international awards including ‘Best Overall Scotch’ at the New York World Spirits Competition and now a gold medal at the Berlin International Spirits Competition 2025 is an incredible honour. These back-to-back wins reaffirm our commitment to crafting spirits that stand out on the world stage.”
Alongside Inception’s Gold medal at BISC 2025, the brand’s Single Estate Vodka was also awarded a Silver Medal.
Ambrosia Magazine 2025 Awards jury member and global spirits expert shares his take on the future of Bourbon and American whisky in India. He is an award winning whisky expert, Keeper of The Quaich and Whisky Magazine Hall of Fame Member.
For the last twenty-five years whisky has enjoyed an unprecedented global growth in popularity, profit, expansion and appreciation in the alcobev industry, and among adult beverage consumers. While Scotch whisky has definitely dominated the landscape for decades, increasing – global travel, social media and global awareness has seen the world’s whisky industry explode. Whisky drinkers are now global explorers, enjoying flavours, aromas, enthusiasm and excitement from all over.
Nowhere is that more exciting than in India, the world’s largest whisky consuming and whisky producing country. India’s own export whiskies are gaining worldwide recognition, almost daily, as they continue to receive accolades and awards at major international competitions. The excitement is in India as well, not just for locally produced products but for whisky from other countries. The popularity of whisky continues to grow among Indian consumers as they explore outside the traditional boundaries.
Bourbon, together with its sibling Tennessee whisky and with its cousin, American Rye whisky, is America’s most popular spirit and has been enjoying growth at home and abroad. Virtually every alcohol consuming culture has a whisky or two which uniquely identifies with the local ingredients, natural resources and climate. Some emulate Scotch whisky, as Scotch is iconic and renowned for its flavour and its traditions. Others celebrate their differences and use local grains and ingredients to achieve a whisky experience which reflects their origins.
Bourbon is a uniquely American spirit and, by law, regulation and international trade agreements, it is acknowledged and protected as such. To carry the label ‘Bourbon’, it must be made in the United States and distilled from at least 51% corn maize, which brings a sweet and fruity character all its own. The balance of grain, called a “mash bill” must be composed of cereal grains – generally rye or wheat – with some malted barley. Bourbon must be matured in new, charred oak containers. The production standards are very specific and while most Bourbon is produced in the state of Kentucky, it can be made in any part of the U.S.
What does the future hold for Bourbon globally and in India? The global Bourbon spirits market is experiencing strong growth, despite a current slowdown due to international tariffs and uncertainty, with projections indicating a rise from approximately $8.2 billion in 2022 to $12 billion by 2030, driven by factors like premiumisation, craft distilleries and international demand.
Here’s a more detailed look at the bourbon volume growth.
• Premiumisation:
Consumers in India and elsewhere are increasingly seeking higher-quality and premium whisky offerings, leading to growth in the high-end and super-premium categories.
• Craft Distillery Interest:
There is growth in craft distilleries and artisanal whisky production which caters to the demand for unique and distinctive spirits.
• International Demand:
Bourbon’s popularity is expanding internationally, with key export markets like Europe, Japan, and Australia showing significant recent gains.
• Popular Cocktail Culture:
The “Cocktail Revolution” continues to expand internationally. The growing popularity of Bourbon-based cocktails and the expansion of cocktail culture further fuels demand. Many classic whisky cocktails are quite adaptable to Bourbon. India is a current global hotspot for this revolution.
• Cross Demographic Appeal and Affordability:
Bourbon has two very important characteristics which make it particularly attractive. First, accessibility – there is the range of pricing from value brands, which are priced to compete with popular, less expensive spirits to ultra-premium labels which appeal to connoisseurs and collectors. The second, perhaps more important, appeal – Bourbon is transgenerational in its appeal and crosses the full range of enthusiasts of all ages, genders and economic classes. In India, this translates into a product which will appeal to younger, aspirational drinkers and explorers.
• Tourism and Distillery Visits:
With return to global travel and the unique relationship between The US and India, particularly in the tech industry where whisky enjoys exceptional popularity, there is resurgence of tourism and distillery visits, providing immersive experiences for consumers, contributes to market growth. This is particularly apparent in Kentucky and Tennessee just as it is also beginning to happen in India.
• Sustainability:
Many distilleries are embracing eco-friendly practices, aligning with consumer demand for environmentally responsible products.
Market Projections:
• Global Market Value:
The global bourbon spirits market is expected to reach $12 billion by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 5.6% between 2023 and 2030.
• North America Dominance:
North America remains the dominant market for bourbon, benefitting from strong local demand and a well-established production infrastructure.
• India and Asia-Pacific Growth:
The Asia-Pacific region is projected to experience the fastest growth in the bourbon spirits market. The opportunities in India are exciting as US Bourbon currently enjoys an import duty advantage over its Scotch whisky competitors and cheaper local IMFL products, making it competitive.
• Producers such as DIAGEO, which makes the incredibly fast growing and much celebrated brand, Bulleit Frontier Whiskey Bourbon, as well as several other American whiskey brands, have a strong advantage because of their already well-established infrastructure and market presence in India as well as their familiarity with local whisky culture.
Specific Growth Figures:
• In 2022, bourbon and Tennessee whiskey volumes in the U.S. grew by 4.2% to 29.7 million 9-liter cases, with revenues increasing by 10.5% to USD 4.5 Billion.
• The global bourbon spirits market was valued at nearly US$ 8 billion in 2022 and is expected to reach US$ 15 billion by 2030.
• The global Bourbon category is predicted to grow by 5% between 2022 and 2031.
• The global bourbon spirits market was valued at $7.8 billion in 2021, and is projected to reach $12.8 billion by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5% from 2022 to 2031.
The Bottom Line – Bourbon’s Future in India
India is excited about American whiskey. A new, younger generation of educated, globally aligned consumers is energising the whisky market in India and Asia. Currently there are number of products available in India which includes Jack Daniel’s, Jim Beam, Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, Gentleman Jack and Old Forester. And with the entry of Sazerac through John Distilleries Ltd as well as scores of other US companies, the Indian market will be flooded with bourbon and Tennessee whiskeys. Bourbon enjoys a particularly competitive advantage over other imported spirit products. My prediction – a bright and sunny future for Bourbon in India.
Most expensive Indian single malt whisky, priced over ₹10.5 lakh
Celebrating its 75th anniversary, Bengaluru-based Amrut Distilleries launched The Expedition, its oldest single malt whisky, aged 15 years to the world market. To commemorate the occasion, it has released 75 bottles of the limited edition, each priced over ₹10.5 lakhs ($12,000).
Ambrosia was invited for the special launch event where both the bottle and the spirit perfectly captured the essence of the celebration. The Managing Director of Amrut Distilleries, Rakshit Jagdale said that of the 75 bottles, nine would be for the Indian market and the rest going to the US, Europe and other markets. Two of the bottles have been pre-booked.
(L-R): Rakshit N Jagdale, MD, Amrut Distilleries with Bhavya Desai, Group Head & CEO, SAP MEDIA WORLDWIDE LTD and Thrivikram G Nikam, Jt. Managing Director, Amrut Distilleries
Amrut believes that The Expedition will elevate the entire luxury segment, demonstrating yet again the brand’s ability to craft exceptional malts beyond its regular range and setting new benchmarks. Amrut has been at the top of the game of Indian Single Malts, even as India’s premiumisation drive continues to motivate manufacturers to do better.
The Expedition has been matured for 15 years, the first eight years in sherry casks from Europe and then the next seven years in ex-bourbon casks from the United States, thus elevating its complexity and depth. The 15-year maturation period is a milestone in the Indian alcobev sector.
