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Whisky happens to be among Indians' preferred tipples. Scotch Whiskies are a rage in India, with the drink being a staple for both at-home get-togethers as well as parties. A premium tipple for those seeking class in every habit of theirs; scotch is an epitome of classic beverages owing to the golden look served in elegant crystal glasses.
Scotch whisky has its origins in Scotland that made its way to every corner of the world. It is either a grain whisky, a malt whisky, or a blend of both. The word whisky comes from the Gaelic 'uisgebeatha' which means 'water of life'. Hence, it does not seem so surprising when people make scotch an essential part of life in India.
Scotch whisky, explained
Scotch whisky is a grain malt liqueur made in oakwood barrels. The basic types of scotch are single malt, single grain, blended malt (two or more distilleries), and blended (both grain and malt). Scotch whisky has an oakwood flavour and a spirit-based taste with an occasional smoky aftertaste.
There are many scotch brands in India that are sold as IMFL (Indian Made Foreign Liqueur), while others are imported and available in India. Here is a list of the best scotch in India that should make its way into your whisky collection for all occasions.
7 Scotch brands in India to stock up for your next house party
1. The Glenlivet
The oldest distillery near Ballindalloch in Moray, Scotland, was found in the year 1824. It is not only the best scotch in India, but also in many countries in Europe and North America. The single malt scotch whisky is a premium scotch in India that many wish to have in their cabinet. The honey-coloured finish of this good scotch in India makes it a favourite choice with lovers of the tipple. There is a variety of core range products they offer, starting from The Glenlivet 12 to The Glenlivet XXV (25 years old).
2. Lagavulin
It is one of the rare finds among the best scotch in India. A bit on the pricier side, but totally worth every penny. Straight from the island of Islay, Scotland, the brand was founded in the year 1816 and went on to become Islay's famous single malt Scotch whisky. Their most popular brand standard is the Lagavulin 16-year-old, which has an alcohol content of 43%, one of the whiskies with the highest alcohol percentage. With a slightly sweet aftertaste and smoke aroma, it is one of the best scotch whisky brands in India.
3. Macallan
With premium packaging, classy bottles, best-of-its-kind single malt, and the best scotch in India, Macallan's steals the hearts of scotch lovers. The distillery is as well thought out as the tipple. It was founded in the year 1824 in Craigellachie, Moray, Scotland. It is the second or third best-selling scotch whisky all over the world and continues to be one of the famous scotch brands in India as well. The core range of the distillery includes whisky aged 12 to 40 years. The best scotch in India from this brand would be Macallan No. 6, with a dry fruit aroma and fruitcake aftertaste.
4. Monkey Shoulder
Let us add a small twist to this list: a blended scotch that gained popularity because of its versatile nature and its suitability for cocktails. Not so long ago, in 2003, the brand brought us a malt whisky with the purpose of performing well with other beverages and bringing out the best of all flavours. With sweet and fruity tastes of orange and honey and the aromas of sherry oak with a bit of vanilla, the brand claims to be the best scotch in India for those who love their drinks to be full of adventures. The Monkey Shoulder bottle, with metal carvings on a corner, has all the right to be in your home bar as the best scotch whisky in India.
5. Glenfiddich
Glenfiddich is a popular choice for whisky lovers. The premium single malt whisky has a solid, clean flavour with hints of a fruity, slightly sweet flavour. Established in the year 1886, the name means ‘valley of the deer’ in Scottish Gaelic. This whisky happens to be among the first scotch whiskies that was sold outside Scotland.
6. The Dalmore
The iconic Dalmore is a premium scotch whisky that is matured in ex-bourbon casks made of American white oak and sherry casks from Gonzalez Byass that are aged especially for the purpose. This scotch whisky is as premium as it gets, and you must give it a try if you haven't already.
7. Talisker
The distillery was established in the 1800s, and the whisky is usually matured using American Oak casks. This scotch whisky is refreshing with a peppery smokey flavour, and the aftertaste is similar to that of rye barley and brine.
Want to add the best of whiskies to your collection? Here are 8 Must-Have Whiskies For A Die-Hard Whisky Lover's Bar.
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