Sales of Indian single malt whisky are estimated to have reached 500,000 nine-litre cases in 2025, marking a growth of approximately 22% over the previous year, according to data from the Confederation of Indian Alcoholic Beverage Companies (CIABC). The category has seen robust expansion as domestic brands continue to dominate the market.
Domestic brands lead the charge
Indian-owned distillers account for an estimated 92% of the Made in India single malt category, translating to roughly 465,000 cases in 2025. Key players include Amrut, Rampur, Indri, Paul John, and newer entrants such as Solan Gold, GianChand, Doaab, Crazy Cock, Aaghaz, and Gamber Valley.
Foreign and multinational corporations like Diageo’s Godawan and Pernod Ricard’s Longitude 77 contribute the remaining 7%, about 35,000 cases. This highlights the strong foothold of Indian companies in a segment that has gained global recognition for quality and craftsmanship.
Steady growth trajectory
The category has grown consistently over the past three years: from 350,000 cases in 2023 to 400,000 in 2024 and then to 500,000 in 2025. This represents a cumulative increase of nearly 43% over two years, driven by rapid premiumisation of India’s whisky market and rising consumer acceptance of Indian-origin single malts.
Entry-level Indian single malts start around Rs 2,300, while premium and aged flagship expressions typically retail between Rs 5,500 and Rs 8,000. The combination of distinctive flavour profiles, climate-led maturation, and award-winning quality has fuelled demand.
Consumer shift towards premium luxury
“Once viewed as a niche category, Indian single malts are increasingly being recognised for their distinctive taste profile, climate-led maturation, award-winning quality, specialised cask finishes and Indian provenance. They are finding stronger acceptance among consumers looking for premium luxury whisky options,” said CIABC Director General Anant S Iyer.
Despite the dominance of domestic brands, imported single malt whiskies remain popular, with an estimated 350,000 cases (bottled-in-origin) expected in 2025. Combined, the total market for single malts in India is projected at 850,000 cases, reflecting growing appetite for high-end, craft-led, and heritage-driven whisky experiences.
Implications for the industry
The sustained growth of Indian single malts signals a structural shift in consumer preferences, with local brands successfully challenging imported labels on quality and prestige. As the premium spirits segment expands, Indian distillers are well-positioned to capture a larger share of both domestic and international markets.
