Indian whisky is no longer just a curiosity. It’s a global contender.
At the 2024 SIP Awards, judged entirely by consumers, four Indian single malts stood out from the crowd. These whiskies earned top medals in a blind tasting against spirits from around the world.
From bold, rich flavors to tropical fruit and spice, each one brings something different to the glass. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky fan or just getting started, these are worth seeking out. Here’s your guide to the four Indian whiskies that we think you should try in 2025.
Godawan 01 – Rich and Rounded
Platinum Medal – SIP Awards 2024
BUY NOW: From $76
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Godawan 01 is a single malt from Rajasthan, crafted in the desert heat of Alwar. The extreme climate speeds up maturation, producing a bold, full-bodied whisky.
It’s made from six-row Indian barley and distilled slowly in copper pot stills. The whisky matures in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, then finishes in ex-bourbon barrels infused with two Indian botanicals: Rasna and Jatamansi.
The official tasting notes describe dried fruit, fig, raisin, and a syrupy, buttery texture. The finish brings warm oak and sweet spice.
Phil Dwyer, writing for The Whiskey Wash in October 2024, stated, “I really enjoyed this! It’s unsuspecting and fairly layered with flavour that really suits this time of year (October). I’d easily buy a bottle.” He rated Godawan 01 an 8/10.
Awarded a Platinum Medal at the 2025 SIP Awards, this expression shows how Indian whisky can deliver rich flavor and real originality.
As an added bonus, Godawan’s global availability is increasing in the U.S., UK, and Asia Pacific. So, it is easier than ever to grab a dram of this accessibly priced Indian whisky.
Paul John Nirvana
Double Gold Medal – SIP Awards 2024
BUY NOW: From $32
Paul John Nirvana is an unpeated single malt from Goa. It’s made by John Distilleries, one of the pioneers of Indian single malt whisky.
Nirvana is crafted from six-row Indian barley and matured in ex-bourbon casks. Goa’s hot, humid climate helps the whisky age quickly, adding depth even at a young age. It’s bottled at 40% ABV and designed to be smooth and approachable.
According to the official tasting notes, Nirvana offers aromas of caramel, fruitcake, and a touch of vanilla. The palate is sweet and honeyed, with hints of cereal and gentle oak. The finish is soft and warming.
I was lucky enough to try Paul John Nirvana at The Whiskey Jar’s Whisky Festival in Manchester just a couple of weeks ago. At 40% ABV, it is easily approachable but is beautifully layered with honeysuckle, oak, and a hint of citrus.
This whisky won a Double Gold Medal at the 2025 SIP Awards, showing its wide appeal. It’s a perfect summer dram for casual sipping. And, if you are just starting your Indian whisky journey, Nirvana is gentle and agreeable – a great start.
Godawan 02 – Fruit and Spice
Double Gold Medal – SIP Awards 2025
BUY NOW: From $75
Godawan 02 is the vibrant counterpart to Godawan 01. It’s also distilled in Rajasthan and made with the same six-row Indian barley, but it follows a different maturation path.
This expression is aged in virgin oak barrels and finished in cherry wood casks, an unusual choice in whisky. A portion also spends time in ex-bourbon barrels infused with Rasna and Jatamansi botanicals, adding a layer of Indian character.
The official tasting notes highlight flavors of vanilla, sweet ginger, coconut, and roasted coffee. It’s lively, spiced, and slightly tropical.
Phil Dwyer also reviewed Godawan 02, and said, “An even softer approach than Series 01. Less of those spicy chai and bourbon notes, but some fresh fruit notes of apple and pears, but a cherry, raisin, and toffee run. In fact, it’s almost rum and raisin-like.” He gave Godawan 02 an 8/10.
Godawan 02 won a Double Gold Medal at the 2025 SIP Awards. It’s a bold, summery malt that works well neat or with a splash of soda.
The Kadamba Indian Single Malt
Gold Medal – SIP Awards 2025
The Kadamba is a premium Indian single malt from The Cheers Group, based in Goa. It’s named after the ancient Kadamba dynasty and comes in a striking, cut-glass decanter.
This whisky is triple-cask matured in ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, and virgin oak barrels. It’s also gently peated, which is rare for Indian malts. The coastal Goan climate adds a soft, mellow quality during aging.
According to the brand, the whisky offers notes of oaky vanilla, sherry trifle, ripe fruit, and a hint of smoke. It’s full-bodied, smooth, and layered.
Kadamba won a Gold Medal at the 2025 SIP Awards.
Now, this whisky is much more difficult to find. It’s limited in release and already gaining attention as a collector’s bottle. If you would like to sample this one, my recommendation would be to keep an eye on whisky auction sites. You never know when your next favorite dram is going to pop up.
