There’s something comforting about the monsoon —the cool breeze, the rhythmic pitter-patter of raindrops, and the nostalgic scent of wet earth. There is no better time to slow down, curl up by the window with your favourite playlist, and savour a glass of good whisky.
Whisky has a way of mirroring the mood of the monsoon. The warmth of each sip balances the chill in the air, while the smoky, sweet, and spicy flavours reflect the depth and calmness of a rainy afternoon. Some whiskies feel like a cosy blanket, while others add a little drama to the grey skies outside.
Whether you’re catching up on a long-forgotten novel, sharing quiet conversations with a loved one, or simply watching raindrops race down the glass window, the right pour elevates these moments, turning them into memories steeped in warmth and reflection.
Here are our top picks to sip over as you enjoy the rain outside your windows, this monsoon.
Indri Trini
Launched in 2021, Indri-Trini is India’s first triple cask single malt bottled at 42.8 per cent abv. Indri or Indriya in Sanskrit refers to the 5 senses—smell, taste, touch, sight and sound. Trini literally alludes to the three coveted casks that the single malt is matured in—ex-bourbon, ex-French wine and PX Sherry.
The smooth single malt carries a deep amber colour and notes of caramelised pineapple, vanilla, black tea, raisins, honey and a long aftertaste of sweet fruity flavours that leave you wanting for more.
Cost:
Haryana: INR 3,000
Delhi: INR 3,700
Maharashtra: INR 5,400
Seagram’s Longitude 77
Seagram’s Longitude 77’ Indian Single Malt Whisky—from the House of Pernod Ricard India is a homage to the enchanting spirit of India and reimagines an India of unparalleled luxury and sophistication. It is crafted in small batches in a distillery in Dindori, Nashik (Maharashtra), with utmost care for seekers of authentic contemporary Indian luxury. The flavour profile is rich and mellow with notes of oak, vanilla, and a subtle hint of fruit.
The brand gets its name from Longitude 77—a line that marks India’s position on the world map. It represents India’s richness of ingredients, historical craftsmanship, her diverse culture, and rich terroir. Every pack of Longitude 77 pays tribute to the colour indigo—India’s unique gift to the world.
Available in Maharashtra, Goa, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Dubai, and at Delhi Duty-Free.
Cost:
Gurgaon, Haryana: INR 3,000
Maharashtra: INR 5,500
Ballantine’s 30-Year-Old
Time is incredibly valuable when creating Ballantine’s 30-year-old. Their whiskies have been sleeping in oak casks in the cool and crisp climate of the Scottish Highlands, for at least three decades.
A blend of extremely rare whiskies that are at least 30 years old, some coming from distilleries that no longer exist–known as “lost” or “ghost” distilleries. It is best enjoyed neat, on the rocks, or with a couple drops of water.
Elegant sweetness, oakiness, with a balance of floral, and fruity flavours are at the forefront of this expression.
Cost:
Haryana: INR 32,000
Maharashtra: INR 54,000
Royal Stag Double Dark Whisky
Seagram’s Royal Stag introduces Royal Stag Double Dark peaty whisky, specially crafted for “the gamechangers.” Every drop of Seagram’s Royal Stag Double Dark is an exquisite combination of selected peated malt and scotch malt concentrate, matured in deep-charred oak barrels, all expertly blended with the finest Indian grain spirit to bring out a distinct smoky flavour and an elevated experience.
These malts have been double distilled in copper pots, aged in dark charred American and European oak barrels. The product comes in contemporary and premium packaging in a standout ashberry colour with a burnt wood tactile finish, accentuating the smoky nature of the whisky. It is perfect for adding a bold, smoky touch to your monsoon evenings.
Cost:
Maharashtra – INR 850
Assam- INR 680
Haryana – INR 600
Uttar Pradesh – INR 770
Johnnie Walker Blonde
Vibrant, refreshing, and perfect for modern whisky lovers, a surprise taste of sunshine comes in a whole new form, from the world’s number one scotch whisky, Johnnie Walker.
Meet Johnnie Walker Blonde, the brand’s latest variant, that invites the new generation of whisky drinkers to experience a drink that is light, bright, all things right–perfect to relish casual sundowner moments with siblings.
Crafted using whiskies predominantly matured in first-fill American oak casks, Johnnie Walker Blonde is versatile, well-rounded, and made for mixing. The sweet, fruity flavours of the whisky burst into life when assorted with a kick of lemonade and a slice of orange.
Cost: INR 2,930 onwards
