• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

2025 Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards: The world is finally taking notice of Indian single malts and the 2025 Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards made that crystal clear. Out of the five finalist spots in the prestigious world whiskey category, four went to Indian whiskies, proving that India’s craft whisky scene is now a serious global contender. Held in the US, this competition is judged entirely blind, with veteran experts like distillers, bartenders, buyers, educators and media professionals tasting and scoring each entry.

Whiskies are evaluated on a 100-point scale for appearance, aroma, taste, balance and finish. Judges also provide tasting notes explaining why each finalist stands out among the world’s best.

Best World Whisky:

The big winner was Piccadily Distilleries’ Indri’s Diwali Collector's Edition 2025, Marsala Cask Finish (60% ABV), which scored nearly perfect at 99.1 points and claimed the title of Best World Whisky. Named after its birthplace in Indri, Haryana, this whisky is made from Indian six-row barley in traditional copper pot stills. Known for its limited Diwali Collector’s Edition releases, it wowed judges with aromas of candied orange, apricot, golden raisins, fig jam, honeycomb, vanilla and seasoned oak, while the marsala cask added a rich nutty almond and marzipan touch.

ALSO READ: Foreign YouTuber Tries India’s ‘Dirty Street Food’, His Unexpected Reaction Goes Viral: 'It's Amazing'

DeVANS Modern Breweries Dominates The Rest:

The remaining three Indian finalist spots were swept by DeVANS Modern Breweries from Jammu, showcasing their GianChand single malt range (all 42.8% ABV). Named after founder Dewan Gian Chand, these whiskies mature in Jammu’s intense summers and chilly winters.

International Contender:

The only non-Indian finalist was Distillery Krauss’s Sulm Valley Whiskey 5 years old (48% ABV) from Austria. This bourbon-style whiskey, made from 70% local Sulm Valley corn, offers aromas of sweet corn, stone fruits, banana chips, vanilla, with hints of wax and leather.

ALSO READ: ‘Yahan Cutlery Ke Bhi Paise Lete Hain’: Indian Woman Trolls Italian Restaurant For Bizarre Dining Rules | Viral Video

What Sets Indian Whiskies Apart?

According to the 2025 LVGSA results, Indian single malts are gaining international recognition. Experts noted that texture, barley character and cask craftsmanship were the primary determinants of high scores. The winners received Best in Category and Best in Show awards in addition to platinum, gold, silver and bronze medals. Producers also get detailed judging feedback that they can use to enhance their product development and marketing. These honours are often proudly displayed on labels, store shelves and promotional materials.

The message is clear: Indian single malts are not just making a mark, they are setting new benchmarks on the world whiskey stage.