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.
Paul John Indian Single Malt Whisky recently announced the release of the 7th edition of Christmas Edition Series. This exceptional unpeated expression, meticulously crafted from the finest Indian ingredients, continues the brand’s legacy of celebrating the festive spirit with unmatched elegance and flavour.
This limited-edition blend continues the legacy of its predecessors, which have consistently garnered international acclaim for their distinct profiles and complexity. Over the years, the Paul John Christmas Edition Series has earned a loyal following for its bold experimentation with cask finishes and vibrant flavour blends.
Each release is a testament to Paul John’s dedication to pushing boundaries while honouring the essence of Indian single malt whisky. The 7th edition stands out with its deep golden hue, exotic aromas of mango and pineapple, and flavours of coconut, candied orange, and toasted oak on the palate, leaving a finish rich in fruit tart and salted toffee.
With only 6,600 bottles for domestic and international markets, this latest release continues the brand’s tradition of crafting rare, collectible whiskies that celebrate the spirit of the season. The 7th edition is designed to rival the world’s finest aged whiskies, earning its place among distinguished shelves.
Since its inception in 2012, Paul John Whisky has established itself as a global icon, earning over 330 prestigious international awards. From being named the World’s 3rd Finest Whisky for Mithuna by Paul John with an impressive 97 points, to the Liquid Gold Award for Paul John Single Cask 161 Whisky, the brand’s accolades speak to its exceptional quality and innovation.
The Christmas Edition Series has become a symbol of Paul John’s ability to blend creativity with tradition, reflecting the vibrant culture of its Goan origins.
Experience the festive charm of Paul John’s 7th Christmas Edition, available now in select global markets. Crafted to be savoured straight or with a splash of water or ice, this limited edition promises to be a cherished gift for whisky connoisseurs and collectors alike.
Paul John Whisky recently introduces its exclusive partnership with Avolta Duty Free to unveil an exclusive Single Cask release for global travelers at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru. This expression will be available at the T2 Duty Free of the airport from 30th May. The cask is dedicated to the city of Bengaluru with packaging designed to capture the glorious spring blossoms of this famous Garden City.
The manufacturer has released only 228 bottles with a non-age statement (NAS), single-cask release is priced at $300 per bottle.
Made in Goa, India, the single-cask Unpeated Madeira focuses on the aromas of delightful Christmas cake, dry plum, and Manuka honey laced with a orange zest lead to a blend of rich flavours, from sweet vanilla and dark chocolate to a subtle tinge of dry resin, culminating in a bold and gratifyingly oaky finish.
“We are honoured to launch our first exclusive single cask global travel release at Bengaluru International Airport Duty Free with our partners Avolta, and to offer an elevated and unique whisky experience to travelers,” said Paul P. John, Chairman, John Distilleries Pvt Ltd.
400 Bottles only, Grab it at Hyderabad Airport Duty-Free
Rampur Signature Reserve Single Malt Whisky made history of its own when it the limited release of 400 bottles only sold for Rs. 5 lakhs per bottle. What’s even more surprising is that of the 400 bottles release, only two remain, which can be bought at the Hyderabad Airport Duty Free. The spirit comes from the distillery which produces the oldest single malt in the country.
In commemoration of Rampur Distillery’s 75th anniversary, Radico Khaitan introduced a super luxury variant of Rampur Indian single malt whisky to the international market. The Rampur Signature Reserve Single Malt is aged in American Standard Oak Barrels with handpicked four distinct casks by the master blender, which are then transferred to specially chosen PX Sherry Butts from Jerez, Spain, for the final maturation phase. Radico feels that it is this dedication to precision and excellence sets Rampur Signature Reserve apart as an exceptional expression of Indian whisky artistry.
Each bottle in this limited-edition collection is individually numbered and carries the signatures of Dr. Lalit Khaitan, Chairman, and the Rampur Master Maker, adding a personal touch to its exclusivity.
But if you aren’t able to grab a bottle of this ultra-exclusive offering, then fear not, the Rampur’s Indian Single Malt Whisky collection offers a diverse price range to suit every enthusiast. Beginning with the Rampur Select at Rs 14,000 per bottle in 2016, it includes the now sold-out PX Sherry variant at Rs 12,000 per bottle and the approachable Rampur Double Caskat Rs 8,500 per bottle in 2018. Leading the range is the prestigious Signature Reserve priced at Rs 5,00,000 per bottle, launched in 2018. Accompanying it is the Rampur Asava priced at Rs 10,000 per bottle since 2019.
Travel Retail exclusive, Rampur Trigun at Rs 17,000 per bottle and the Rampur Jugalbandhi series starting at Rs 40,000 per bottle.
Abhishek Khaitan, Managing Director of Radico Khaitan, expressed his excitement about this milestone, stating, “We are thrilled to announce that the last two bottles of Rampur Signature Reserve, out of the 400 bottles produced, are available exclusively at Hyderabad duty-free. This represents not just a whisky, but a legacy of Indian craftsmanship and heritage, inviting enthusiasts, collectors, and travellers to experience the unmatched quality of Radico Khaitan’s offerings.”
In addition to the Rampur Signature Reserve, other spirits like the Rampur Asava Indian Single Malt Whisky, the rich and complex Rampur Double Cask Indian Single Malt Whisky, the acclaimed Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin and Gold edition, and the regal Royal Ranthambore Heritage Collection Whisky are also available at Hyderabad duty-free.
