Storm In A Glass: Celebrate The Season With India’s Best Homegrown Labels

Last Updated:July 16, 2025, 17:42 IST

Whether you’re chasing smoky complexity, smooth finishes, or a touch of wild, here’s a curated monsoon roundup of Indian labels making waves with their craft, commitment to quality

As the rains awaken the senses and stir up a thirst for indulgence, there’s no better time to explore India’s rising stars in the alco-bev scene. From bold whiskies rooted in regional heritage to rebellious blends redefining global standards, this season’s picks promise not just a drink but a story in every sip. Whether you’re chasing smoky complexity, smooth finishes, or a touch of wild, here’s a curated monsoon roundup of Indian labels making waves with their craft, character, and commitment to quality.

SOORAHI Whisky

SOORAHI, as a brand, has been earmarked for the well-heeled patron who craves meaningful indulgences. It is a pairing of two Hindi words “soo” meaning good, and “rahi” meaning traveller, connoting the era of discovery and travel that the Indian alcohol beverage space has experienced in recent years. This spirit is reflected in its design and packaging, which sport visual elements such as a compass and North Star, indicating guidance and ambition. Each sip takes you on a journey, evoking moments of adventure, discovery, and pure indulgence.

Tasting Notes

Colour: A mesmerising amber-gold hue, reminiscent of sunset-lit horizons.

On the Nose: A warm embrace of vanilla and malt, intertwined with butterscotch, sherry, marmalade, oak, and a subtle touch of smoke.

On the Palate: An explosion of flavours—rich and smooth with vibrant oaky notes, toffee-caramel sweetness, dried fruits, and a delicate whisper of sherry and smoke.

Finish: A long, dry conclusion with lingering notes of oak, malt, vanilla, and a smoky depth.

Availability: Delhi & Punjab

Price: ₹1,700 (Delhi) | ₹1,500 (Punjab)

Infamous Northeast Rebel Double Barrel Whisky

Crafted for whisky connoisseurs who crave something unconventional, Infamous Northeast Rebel Double Barrel Whisky creates a rebellious yet refined drinking experience. This daring rule-breaker is born of rare malt and grain Scotch from the Scottish Highlands, further matured with copper-pot-distilled Indian single malts from Jammu’s hills and continuous-column-distilled corn and rice whiskies from Northeast India’s elevated regions. This makes it the world’s first whisky to mature Scotch malts further in famous Tennessee whisky casks—shaping its bold yet silky-smooth taste to create a truly global whisky experience.

Infamous is inspired by the rebellious spirit of Northeast India—often called the ‘Wild Wild East’—and the design reflects both local soul and global style. Its visual identity is raw, edgy, and rooted in cultural authenticity, making it a standout on the shelf and in the glass. With a clear vision to redefine Indian whisky on the world stage, the brand plans to introduce more inventive blends, unique mashes, and meaningful collaborations that push the boundaries of tradition.

Tasting Notes

Color and Body: Deep golden hue with a medium oily texture

Nose: Fruity, with a burst of berries underpinned by hints of nuts and dates

Palate: Sweet and full-bodied, with a rich mouthfeel and notes of cranberries

Finish: Long and satisfying, leaving a lasting impression

Availability: Assam

Price: ₹2,500 (MRP)

Castle Hill Dark Knight Small Batch Whiskey

The journey of Dark Knight Whiskey began with industry veteran John McDougall, who set up a maturation unit on-site in Assam to age fresh malts and locally distilled spirits made from broken rice and corn. This culminated in the launch of Castle Hill Dark Knight Small Batch Whiskey (2 Years) in 2019, followed by the 4-Year variant in 2021. Crafted using the American tradition of whiskey and bourbon, the spirit undergoes a five-stage process—fermentation of mash (51% maize), distillation, charcoal filtration, and maturation in charred new American oakwood casks.

Tasting Notes

Palate: Rich, deep gold colour with good oiliness; fruity notes with hints of blackberries and coffee on the nose. Balanced and complex with a sweet, slightly spicy taste and a long, satisfying aftertaste.

Availability: Assam

Price:

2-Year: ₹1,200 (MRP)

4-Year: ₹1,550 (MRP)

55°NORTH Whisky

Named after the 55th Parallel North, known for its rugged whisky regions, 55°NORTH is a tribute to boldness and untamed spirit. Crafted from fine grain spirit and matured Indian malt, it’s expertly blended with three differently aged Scotch malts to create a rich tapestry of flavours.

Tasting Notes

On the Nose: Bold smoky peat, sweet malt, caramel, honey, and dried orchard fruits with toasted oak and vanilla.

On the Palate: Full-bodied with honey, oak spice, dark chocolate, and dried figs—balanced by bright citrus zest.

Finish: Long and warm, with lingering malt, oak, spice, and a mineral hint reminiscent of the Scottish coast.

Availability: Delhi

Price: ₹800 (MRP)

Lone Wolf

Lone Wolf is a pioneer in India’s premium beer category, marking a bold step in redefining the beer experience. Known for bold flavours and transparent production values, Lone Wolf celebrates individuality and self-expression. It’s crafted for those ready to venture off the beaten path, with variants tailored for every personality.

Variants & Tasting Notes

Lone Wolf Alpha (330ml for ₹125): A refreshing blend of malted and unmalted grain for smoothness.

Lone Wolf Maverick (330ml for ₹100): A classic smooth malt lager with a refreshing finish—ideal for any occasion.

Lone Wolf Wild (330ml for ₹100): Bold yet smooth, this one’s for those who dare to be different.

Availability: Delhi, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Goa

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