Whisky is a distilled alcoholic beverage which is made of different types of grain mash. The flavour, quality, price, and also the name of the whisky, depends on the type of grain it is produced from. Some of the most commonly used grains include wheat, barley, rye, buckwheat, corn etc. Different types of whiskeys are produced from different whole grains using either column stills or pot stills. Even though the process of making whisky is very similar everywhere the taste is different in every part of the world. This is because the method of storing and ageing is different also determines the quality and flavour of whiskey. Whiskey is one spirit, which is loved by the majority of Indian population.
What whiskeys are worth collecting?
A glass of whisky, with its amber glow and smoky notes, tells a story of time, patience, and craftsmanship. For many, whisky isn’t just a drink but an art form, representing regions, histories, and delicate balance of ingredients. For the avid whisky lover, the allure isn’t merely in the tasting, but in collecting whisky. So, what makes a bottle collection-worthy?
Firstly, rarity plays a significant role. Limited edition releases or those from now-closed distilleries carry a historical weight. Then there’s the allure of the craft – whiskies that boast an intricate process or have an engaging backstory. Age, too, is a valued factor. The older the whisky, the deeper its character, having spent years, sometimes decades, interacting with oak barrels.
Geography is a key player. From the smoky peat of Scotland to the sweet corn mash of Kentucky, location drastically shapes the flavor profile. And let’s not forget the award-winners; having a seal of approval from a prestigious competition can significantly boost a bottle’s collectible status. As we delve into the ten whiskies that should grace every aficionado’s shelf, remember: collecting isn’t always about value in currency but value in experience.
Here is a list of 10 great whiskies and premium liquor brand that every whisky lover should have in their collection.
10 – Rockdove Whisky
Rockdove is premium whiskey which is produced by a newly launched liquor brand in India called Hermes. It offers exquisite flavours which are not just sophisticated but also unforgettable. Specially made for the success-oriented new generation, this whisky is endorsed by discerning professionals for its colour, aroma, as well as taste. Considering the fine taste it possesses, Rockdove will soon become one of the best whisky brands in India.
09 – Old Tavern
Old tavern is not as popular as other whisky brands in India, but enjoys a good share of drinkers in states like Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. A bottle should cost you anywhere between Rs.150-500, which is highly affordable. Apart from India, the brand is also sold in some African countries.
08 – Royal Stag Whisky
This label is well-known for the exclusive and authentic taste it possesses. The major role of Royal Stag’s success is the complex production process, which comprises of an excellent preparation by merging different liquids together. Not just in India, but this whisky has acclaimed its presence all over the world.
07 – Bagpiper Whisky
This spirit by United Breweries group has made India proud by becoming one of the best in class liquor as well as premixes in India and for also giving a great fight to all imported labels. This whisky comes with a wood-like aroma and has fascinating distillation process to get rid of the molasses. Bagpiper is the first whisky brand in India which started packing Whiskey in tetra packs.
06 – Johnnie Walker Whisky
The most popular Johnnie Walker’s are Green Label, Black Label, Blue Label, Red Label, and Platinum Label. The higher you go in variants, the more you need to pay. The Green label variant has been awarded the great awards in United States for 3 consecutive years.
05 – 8PM Whisky
RadicoKhaitan Group produces this whiskey and it is easily available all across India except the dry states. This whiskey is easily get table in rural areas of India and non-metro cities within the low budget range.
04 – Imperial Blue Whisky
Launched in India in 1997, by Seagram, this whisky is famous for its high quality. It is popular for also producing amazing scotch malts. This whisky can be termed as the best single malt whiskey brand of India. This brand has its bottling plant situated in the Kolhapur city of Maharashtra.
03 – Officer’s Choice Whisky
Also known by its initials, OS, this whisky is quite a famous label which has a subtle and fascinating taste. This is because it is made by indulging in a lot of pre-preparation and by following a lot of procedures. The whisky is the perfect combination of natural spirits and Indian spirits. The taste of this spirit is quite strong, and this makes the tongue richer.
02 – McDowell’s Whisky
Considered the most popular whisky brands in India, McDowell’s No 1 whisky has a huge fan following among Indians. This brand is also a part of United Spirit Flagship and has remained the top choice of Indians for multiple years. The variants of this spirit come in 3 styles: platinum, lastly Reserve, and diet mate. This whisky is definitely considered the best branded liquor in India.
01 – Haywards Fine Whisky
A product from United Breweries group, Haywards Fine Whisky is not just popular in India but also in other African and Middle Eastern countries. The sales graph has been seen climbing the success ladder tremendously. This whisky has an awesome taste and thereby it faces an enormous sales growth every passing year.
Each whisky comes with a distinct taste. There are many great and diverse array of spirits available in India. However, nothing that quite matches up to the whiskies mentioned in the list above, which every whisky lover should have in their collection.
Is whiskey a better investment than gold?
In financial realms, gold has been the traditional stalwart of investment. Its value, rarely depreciating, has rendered it a safe haven for investors. But in recent years, a surprising competitor has emerged: whisky. To many, this might seem an unconventional pivot, but there’s logic behind the claim.
Whisky, especially rare or most valuable whisky, has seen skyrocketing prices at auctions. A bottle of Rockdove whisky, for instance, might fetch significantly more now than it did a decade ago. These bottles aren’t just purchases; they’re assets. They appreciate, sometimes at rates surpassing traditional investments.
Yet, it’s essential to approach with caution. While whisky collection can yield incredible returns, it also comes with risks. Counterfeit bottles, fluctuating market tastes, and the challenges of proper storage can deter potential profits. But for those who find joy in the nuances of popular alcohol drinks like Haywards whisky or Old Tavern whisky, the endeavor becomes a delightful blend of passion and investment. Gold may never lose its shine, but for some, the gleam of a rare whisky bottle holds an allure that’s hard to resist.
Embarking on the Whisky Trail: How to Begin Your Collection
Whisky collecting can be daunting. With a plethora of choices and a vast range of prices, where does one even start? But fear not, budding connoisseurs, for the journey to curate a personal collection is as rewarding as the spirits themselves.
Understanding your palate is paramount. Before diving into the deep end, sample a range. Whether it’s a smoky Islay, a spicy rye, or a smooth Japanese malt, identifying what resonates with you will shape your collection’s foundation.
Research is your best companion. Understanding the history, processes, and regions associated with your favorite drams can guide purchases. Whisky collection forums and tastings can offer invaluable insights.
Budgeting is crucial. It’s easy to be tempted by high-end bottles, but remember: price doesn’t always equate to quality. Many gems, like most expensive whiskies, don’t carry hefty price tags.
Lastly, store correctly. Whisky doesn’t mature in the bottle like wine does. But factors like light, temperature, and humidity can affect its character. A cool, dark place, with bottles standing upright, is ideal.
As you embark on this journey, remember that every bottle you add isn’t just an alcoholic beverage but a chapter in the vast, fascinating world of whisky.