DealsDekho Team
Discover the best Scotch whisky brands in India. Explore top-rated options, tasting notes, and premium blends for every whisky lover.
Scotch whisky has long been a staple in India as a drink of honor, prestige, and celebration. Whether you are an experienced whisky connoisseur or just starting out, there is something special about Scotch whisky that everyone can appreciate.
In this article, we will help you navigate the vast range of Scotch whiskies available in India and give you expert tips on choosing the best brands.
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- Top 10 Scotch Brands in 2025
- Popular Scotch Brands in India
- Best Indian Scotch Brands
- Premium Scotch in India
- Top scotch brands in India with Price List
From floral and nutty single malts to powerful peat monsters, there’s something for everyone in our list of the best Scotch whiskies available in India.
We will look at taste profiles, price points, and source materials to ensure you find the perfect Scotch for your palate and wallet. Let’s dive right in!
Top 10 Scotch Brands in India
India is one of the largest whisky markets in the world, with a growing demand for premium Scotch whiskies. Whether you prefer smooth and mellow blends or rich and smoky single malts, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a list of the top 10 Scotch whisky brands in India, covering a mix of international and homegrown names.
| Rank | Brand Name | Popular Variants | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Royal Salute | 21 YO Signature Blend, 38 YO Stone of Destiny, 62 Gun Salute | Luxury Scotch, deep complexity, smooth finish |
| 2 | Black Dog | Black Reserve, Triple Gold Reserve, 12 YO, 18 YO, 21 YO | Smooth, rich malt, hints of caramel & vanilla |
| 3 | Blenders Pride | Reserve Collection, Classic Premium, Blenders Pride Whisky | Refined, smooth, slightly smoky with vanilla notes |
| 4 | Antiquity Blue | Antiquity Rare, Antiquity Blue | Aged in oak casks, smoky and woody flavors |
| 5 | Royal Challenge | Classic, Premium, Reserve | Well-balanced blend, smooth taste with smokiness |
| 6 | Royal Stag | Deluxe, Barrel Select, Platinum, Gold, Signature | Affordable, smooth, slightly smoky |
| 7 | Imperial Blue | Special Reserve, Platinum, Super Premium, Gold Reserve | Smooth and mellow, budget-friendly |
| 8 | Old Smuggler | Blended Scotch Whisky, 12 YO | Classic blend, hint of peat, well-rounded taste |
| 9 | 8 PM Whisky | Gold Reserve, Blue Label, Black Label, Signature, Platinum | Rich, full-bodied, hints of smoke |
| 10 | Director’s Special | Premium Reserve, Black | Budget-friendly, smooth, light smoky flavor |
Best Indian Scotch Brands
With more whisky varieties than ever before, it can be hard to find the best Scotch brands in India. To make things a bit easier, here’s our top list of 14 Scotch whiskies that you should definitely try out:
Blenders Pride
If you’re in the mood for something a little easier on the palate, Blenders Pride is one of your best options. This brand is a blended scotch whiskey that contains grain spirit and single malt scotch, giving it a light, smooth flavor with sweet and fruity notes.
It’s one of the cheaper Scotch brands in India, making it perfect for those who want to enjoy the taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Plus, Blenders Pride is incredibly versatile. Enjoy it neatly or on the rocks, or even add it to your favorite cocktail!
Blenders Pride Variants With Price:
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Blenders Pride Reserve Collection | A premium blend of imported Scotch malts and Indian grain spirits, offering a rich and smooth taste. | ₹1,210 |
| Blenders Pride Rare Premium | Aged in oak casks, this blend of Scotch malts and grain spirits delivers a mellow and balanced flavor. | ₹800 |
| Blenders Pride Rare Premium Gold | A refined blend of aged Scotch malts and grain spirits, providing a smooth and luxurious experience. | ₹800 |
| Blenders Pride Rare Premium Reserve | Crafted with carefully selected Scotch malts and grain spirits, aged in oak for a deep, rich taste. | ₹1,000 |
| Blenders Pride Select Premium | A bold and intense blend of imported Scotch malts and grain spirits, offering a smooth and elegant sip. | ₹995 |
Royal Challenge
When it comes to Scotch, few brands can match the reputation of Royal Challenge. It is often praised for its smooth taste and affordability qualities that make it a great introduction to single malts. Known for its golden hue, Royal Challenge offers robust notes of honey, woody spice, and hints of black pepper. It goes down easy with a creamy finish that lingers on your palate.
If you’re new to Scotch whisky, you’ll find plenty to love about Royal Challenge. It’s ideal for those who don’t have a lot of experience tasting whisky or enjoying it neat or on the rocks. You can enjoy it however you like; just pour yourself a neat glass of whisky and let Royal Challenge’s complex layers of flavor do the rest.
Royal Challenge Variants With Prices:
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Challenge Classic | Crafted with grain spirit, offering a smooth and mellow flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla. | ₹900 |
| Royal Challenge Premium | A blend of pure grain spirit and selected malts, featuring a smooth texture and fruity taste. | ₹1,100 |
| Royal Challenge Platinum | Triple-distilled blend of malt and grain spirits with rich notes of toffee, honey, and oak. | ₹1,500 |
| Royal Challenge 18 Years Old | Aged for 18 years in oak casks, delivering a robust flavor with hints of dried fruit, toffee, and vanilla. | ₹3,500 |
| Royal Challenge Rare Cask | A full-bodied blend of single malt and grain whiskies, aged in rare oak casks with spicy oak notes. | ₹4,200 |
Antiquity Blue
One of the best Scotch brands in India is Antiquity Blue. This brand, owned by United Spirits Ltd, has become a favorite for many whisky drinkers out there.
Out of all their varieties, the Antiquity Blue is truly a great blend one that balances the delicate aromas of caramel and oak with smoky peat and spices.
When it comes to taste, the Antiquity Blue Scotch has no shortage of flavor. You’ll get notes of caramel and toffee balanced with smoky peat and spices, while an undercurrent of oak lingers beneath. And after, a slight sweetness lingers on your palate long after you take your last sip.
Antiquity Blue Variants in India
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Antiquity Blue Special Reserve | Aged in oak barrels for 12 years, offering a rich and smooth taste with notes of vanilla, honey, and spice. | ₹1,500 |
| Antiquity Blue Rare | A rare blend matured for 18 years, featuring a complex aroma and a smooth, rich flavor. | ₹2,800 |
| Antiquity Blue Platinum | Aged for over 25 years, with a deep amber color, smooth taste, and distinct honey and oak aroma. | ₹4,500 |
| Antiquity Blue Signature | A blend of rare single malts aged for 30 years, delivering a velvety texture and smoky, peaty flavor. | ₹7,200 |
| Antiquity Blue Cask Strength | Aged for 35+ years in oak barrels, offering deep, intense flavors with a smooth, mellow finish. | ₹9,500 |
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Director’s Special
If you’re looking for something a bit special, then Director’s Special might be the Scotch brand for you.
This unique blend of different malts and grains is aged in oak casks to bring out its unique flavor profile which includes hints of vanilla, honey, and toffee.
One of the things that makes Director’s Special stand out from other Scotch brands is its complexity. The blend of different malts/grains gives it an intense flavor, and the fact that it’s aged in oak casks gives it a pleasant finish that lingers on your tongue for a while. This harmonious combination makes it a great choice for anyone looking to savor a truly special drink.
Director’s Special Variants With Prices:
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Director’s Special Black | A robust blend of Indian and Scotch whiskies with a smooth finish. | ₹1,400 |
| Director’s Special Platinum | Crafted with fine Scotch whiskies, offering a mild and smooth taste. | ₹1,800 |
| Director’s Special Gold | A carefully crafted whisky with a unique flavor and delicate aroma. | ₹2,200 |
| Director’s Special White | A light and smooth whisky with a hint of sweetness for easy drinking. | ₹1,200 |
| Director’s Special Double Cask | Aged in two cask types, giving it a bold, complex flavor and rich aroma. | ₹2,800 |
Black Dog
When it comes to classic scotch brands in India, it’s hard not to mention Black Dog. This smooth, medium-bodied scotch is always a fan favorite and a great choice for any whisky aficionado.
Black Dog has great tasting notes that can be enjoyed neat or on the rocks: you’ll get aromas of honey, oak, smoke, and sea salt with hints of citrus and apples. On the palate, expect lingering flavors of dark fruit, peat, nutmeg, and a hint of caramel. It’s got a bit of sweetness with a moderate woodiness that will linger on your taste buds for some time!
Black Dog Variants With Prices:
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Black Dog Triple Gold Reserve | A triple-matured whisky with a smooth, rich, and indulgent taste, aged in three distinct oak casks. | ₹2,200 |
| Black Dog Centenary | Crafted from the finest malts and grains, offering a gentle, smooth flavor with a smoky finish. | ₹1,800 |
| Black Dog 8 Year Old | Aged for 8 years in oak casks, delivering a complex, full-bodied flavor with a lingering smokiness. | ₹2,500 |
| Black Dog 12 Year Old | Aged for 12 years, featuring a smooth, creamy texture with notes of dried fruit, spice, and smoke. | ₹3,500 |
| Black Dog 18 Year Old | Aged for 18 years, offering a sophisticated flavor with hints of dried fruit, vanilla, and light smoke. | ₹6,500 |
Imperial Blue
When it comes to Scotch, Imperial Blue has long been one of India’s favorites and the experts agree. This blended Scotch whisky is incredibly smooth and full of flavor, with a taste that’s been perfected over time.
The whisky is made from a blend of handpicked grains and malts that come together to create a smooth yet complex flavor. The result? A delicious blend of sweetness and smokiness, perfect for sipping over ice or mixing into your favorite cocktail. All in all, Imperial Blue should be one of your go-to Scotches if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience.
Imperial Blue Variants in India
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Imperial Blue Special Reserve | A premium whisky with a smooth, sweet flavor and a light, smoky aroma. | ₹1,500 |
| Imperial Blue Super Deluxe | A velvety whisky with a hint of smoke and a subtle sweetness. | ₹1,800 |
| Imperial Blue Platinum | A smooth, robust whisky with a lingering smoky finish. | ₹2,200 |
| Imperial Blue Rare Aged | A full-bodied whisky with a subtle smokiness and delicate sweetness. | ₹2,500 |
| Imperial Blue Signature | Exceptionally smooth with a complex flavor profile and a smoky finish. | ₹3,000 |
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Old Smuggler
Do you like your Scotch with a bit of a smoky flavor? Then you’ll probably love Old Smuggler. This Scotch distillery is located in the heart of Scotland’s lowlands, and they use malted barley, which gives their scotch its distinct smoky flavor. The malted barley is smoked over peat fires, so you get the perfect balance of smoky and sweet.
Old Smuggler has been making whisky since 1881 and they have become world-renowned for their smoothness and quality. Their malts are aged in oak barrels for years, ensuring a deep complexity to their flavor profile. It’s also one of the most affordable whiskies in India, making it great for everyday drinking.
Old Smuggler Variants With Prices:
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Old Smuggler Deluxe Blended Scotch | A smooth, subtle whisky with a warm finish, great for cocktails or sipping neat. | ₹1,800 |
| Old Smuggler 12 Year Old Blended Scotch | Aged 12 years, featuring honey and citrus notes with a hint of smokiness and a smooth finish. | ₹3,000 |
| Old Smuggler Signature Blended Scotch | A classic Old Smuggler style with a soft, sweet flavor balanced by subtle smokiness. | ₹2,500 |
| Old Smuggler 15 Year Old Blended Scotch | Aged 15 years, delivering deep oak, dried fruit flavors, and a lingering smoky taste. | ₹4,500 |
| Old Smuggler 18 Year Old Blended Scotch | A premium blend aged 18 years, offering a rich, smooth mouthfeel and a long, lingering finish. | ₹6,000 |
Royal Salute
Royal Salute is another top Scotch brand in India. This iconic whisky is aged for a minimum of 21 years and comes in a luxurious porcelain flagon with a handcrafted Royal Salute medallion of 22-carat gold.
In addition to its amazing taste and unique bottle design, Royal Salute has also been recognized by many awards over the years. These include numerous awards such as the “Gold Outstanding” at the International Wine & Spirits Competition in 2018 and a score of 95 points given by the highly acclaimed expert Jim Murray Whiskey Bible 2020 Edition.
Royal Salute Variants in India
| Variant | Description | Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Salute 21 Year Old | Sweet aroma with hints of ripe apples and toffee; smooth and mellow taste. | ₹25,000 – ₹30,000 |
| Royal Salute 38 Year Old | Intense aroma with dried fruits, chocolate, and smoke; full-bodied with a sweet, spicy finish. | ₹1,80,000 – ₹2,20,000 |
| Royal Salute 50 Year Old | Aged for 50 years, offering a rich mix of dried fruits, toffee, and spice with a complex finish. | ₹8,00,000+ |
| Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute | A blend of whiskies aged 40+ years, featuring a rich fruity aroma with honey and spice. | ₹3,00,000 – ₹4,00,000 |
| Royal Salute 100 Cask Selection | Exclusive blend of rare whiskies aged 40+ years; smooth and full-bodied with a long finish. | ₹4,50,000 – ₹5,50,000 |
Royal Stag
If you’re looking for a classic Indian whisky, Royal Stag is the first brand you should keep in mind. It’s a blend of Scotch grain whisky and Indian-made molasses grain spirit, and it’s one of the most popularly consumed Scotch brands in India.
Royal Stag is made using unique distilleries spread across India and blends the taste of Scottish whisky with spices, herbs, and other local flavors. This makes it a great choice if you want to enjoy a bottle with subtle yet exotic flavors.
Royal Stag Variants With Prices:
| Variant | Description | Approximate Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| Royal Stag Barrel Select | Unique blend of Scotch whiskies matured in oak barrels, with notes of vanilla, citrus, and spices. | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 |
| Royal Stag Deluxe | Expertly blended aged Scotch whisky with sweet vanilla, toasted oak, and subtle smoke. | ₹800 – ₹1,400 |
| Royal Stag Signature | Aged for a minimum of 8 years, offering a smooth, mellow taste with hints of toffee and dried fruits. | ₹1,500 – ₹2,200 |
| Royal Stag Platinum | Triple-aged Scotch whisky with full-bodied flavors of toffee, caramel, and vanilla. | ₹2,500 – ₹3,500 |
| Royal Stag Gold | An 8-year-old blended whisky with select malts, smooth flavors of dried fruits and a hint of smoke. | ₹1,800 – ₹2,800 |
8 PM
We said it earlier and we’ll say it again 8 PM is one of the most sought-after scotch brands in India. For starters, there are several varieties to choose from, depending on your taste. From 8 PM Bronze Reserve to 8 PM Ultra Luxe, the brand has something for everyone.
When it comes to taste, 8 PM really stands out against other brands because of its quality ingredients. All varieties of scotch are made using only the finest grain spirit and mature oak casks, making them incredibly smooth and rich in flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a smooth and mellow blend or something with more complexity 8 PM has got you covered. It’s clear why this is one of India’s most beloved scotch brands!
8 PM Variants With Prices:
| Variant | Description | Approx Price (750ml) |
|---|---|---|
| 8 PM Gold Reserve | Smooth blend of Indian grain whisky and Scotch malt whisky, with a golden hue. | ₹800 – ₹1,400 |
| 8 PM Blue Label | Light and fragrant blend of Indian grain whisky and Scotch malts. | ₹1,000 – ₹1,600 |
| 8 PM Black Label | Bold and full-bodied whisky with a smoky finish. | ₹1,200 – ₹1,800 |
| 8 PM Signature | Smooth and creamy texture with a hint of spice, made from Indian grain and Scotch malts. | ₹1,400 – ₹2,000 |
| 8 PM Platinum Label | Smooth and mellow whisky with notes of oak and peat, crafted with Scotch malts. | ₹1,800 – ₹2,500 |
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What Is Scotch?
You may have heard of scotch and wondered what all the fuss is about. Well, it’s not just a fancy way of saying “whiskey.” Scotch is a specific kind of whiskey that hails from Scotland.
It‘s made from malted barley and must be aged in Scotland for at least three years to be labeled as such. It also must contain a minimum alcohol content of 40%.
Scotch comes in two forms: blended and single malt. Blended scotch is made from a combination of malt and grain whiskies; it’s a good choice for those who want to enjoy the flavors without breaking the bank.
Single malt scotch is made from malted barley that has been distilled in one distillery. It tends to cost more, but its higher quality means its flavors are far more complex.
The distinct flavor profile wows many aficionados not to mention makes it perfect for sipping neat or on the rocks.
What Are the Different Type Of Scotch
Now that you know why you should opt for Scotch, let’s explore the different types available. Scotch can be broadly classified into six categories depending on the distillation process used: Single Malt Scotch, Blended Malt Scotch, Single Grain Scotch, Blended Grain Scotch, Blended Scotch Whisky, and Vatted Malt whisky.
Single Malt Scotch
It is made from water and malted barley only and distilled at a single distillery so no two varieties will ever taste exactly the same.
Blended Malt Scotch
These are combines Single Malts from multiple distilleries to produce a whisky with fairly consistent flavor.
Single Grain Scotch
It is made from water, malted barley, and grains other than barley often wheat or corn.
Blended Grain
It is combines single-grain whiskies from multiple distilleries just like blended malt scotch. These whiskies are usually lighter in taste than either the single malt or single grain scotch.
Blended Scotches
These are a combination of one or more single malt scotches with one or more single grain scotches combined to achieve certain flavors and aromas that could not be achieved if only one-grain type was used.
Vatted Malts
It is combine two or more single malt whiskies from different distilleries in order to create a unique flavor profile you may never find in any other whisky.
No matter which type of scotch you choose, a good quality brand will always give you an unforgettable drinking experience like no other spirit can provide.
What to Look for When Choosing a Scotch Brand
When you’re choosing a Scotch brand, there are a few things to consider before committing. First, understand that Scotch is typically divided into two overall categories: single malts and blended Scotch whiskeys. Single malts are made from only malted barley, water, and yeast and come from a single distillery. Blended whisky, on the other hand, is the result of combining different malt whiskies with grain whiskies from multiple distilleries.
So what should you look for when choosing a Scotch brand? Here are a few tips:
- Cost
The cost of the bottle is not necessarily an indication of quality higher prices do not always mean better quality. Do your research and look at reviews to get an idea of which bottles offer the best value for your money.
- Region
Different regions will have their own distinct flavor profiles associated with them due to the local climate and soil conditions. Consider where the whisky was produced when choosing a specific brand, as this can give you an indication of what flavors to expect in your bottle.
- Age
The age on the bottle indicates how long the whisky has been maturing in oak barrels the longer it’s been aging, the smoother it will be in taste. A good rule of thumb is to avoid anything below 12 years old.
By keeping these key points in mind, you’ll be sure to find a bottle of Scotch that suits your particular palate and preferences!
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FAQs About Scotch Brands in India
You might have a few questions about the best scotch brands in India. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about scotch brands in India.
Q: Is Scotch legal in India?
A: Yes, Scotch is legal in India. It is regulated by the Indian government and is subject to excise duty and other taxes.
Q: What is the minimum age to buy Scotch in India?
A: The minimum age to buy Scotch in India is 25 years.
Q: What is the price of Scotch in India?
A: The price of Scotch in India varies depending on the brand and type of Scotch. Prices range from around Rs. 500 to Rs. 5,000 per bottle.
Q:Is it possible to buy Scotch online in India?
A: Yes, it is possible to buy Scotch online in India. There are several websites that offer Scotch for sale, such as Amazon India and Flipkart.
Q: Are there any restrictions on bringing Scotch into India?
A: Yes, there are restrictions on bringing Scotch into India. It is illegal to bring more than two liters of Scotch into India without prior permission from the Indian government.
Q: Are there any restrictions on the amount of Scotch that I can buy in India?
A: Yes, there are restrictions on the amount of Scotch that can be purchased in India. It is illegal to buy or possess more than two liters at any one time.
Conclusion: Best Scotch Brands in 2025
India has many great Scotch whisky options, from premium aged whiskies like Royal Salute and Chivas Regal to affordable and smooth blends like Imperial Blue. Whether you like rich, smoky flavors or smooth and mellow blends, there is something for everyone.
Whether you prefer a smoky, peaty Scotch or a smooth, caramel-toned whisky, India has a wide selection of imported Scotch brands to explore.
Choosing the right Scotch is never an easy task but with the help of this guide, the next bottle in your collection is sure to be the best! Enjoy it responsibly, and cheers!
