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News18
04-08-2025
- Business
- News18
These Popular Indian Liquor Brands Are In Highest Demand Abroad
Last Updated: India's alco-bev market is booming, with homegrown liquor brands like Old Monk and Indri-Trini winning global awards for quality and taste, driving high demand worldwide Indian alcohol brands are making a splash across the globe. What was once a staple at local parties and family gatherings is now being poured into glasses in New York, London, Tokyo, and beyond. From whisky to gin and rum, Indian spirits are rising in global popularity, thanks to their unique character and multiple international awards. But this is about more than just liquor. Indian brands are now telling stories, sharing centuries-old traditions, and showcasing regional techniques. Whether it's a smooth single malt from the Himalayan foothills or a coastal coconut rum from Goa, these spirits capture the essence of Indian ingredients and creativity, and are earning global attention for all the right reasons. India is currently the third-largest market in the world for alcoholic beverages, trailing only China and the United States. The country's alco-bev (alcoholic beverages) sector is on a high-growth trajectory, expanding from approximately Rs 1.7 lakh crore in FY 2015 to an estimated Rs 5 lakh crore by FY 2028. This boom reflects both growing domestic consumption and the increasing international appeal of Indian spirits. With demand rising, homegrown brands are stepping confidently onto the global stage. Amrut Single Malt: Often considered India's first true single malt to achieve international acclaim, Amrut is made from a mix of Indian barley and Scottish peated barley. It has consistently bagged honours at the World Whiskies Awards and is renowned for its layered and bold taste. Rampur Whisky: A royal sip in every glass, Rampur hails from the foothills of the Himalayas and has won the 'Best World Single Malt' title at the 2025 John Barleycorn Awards. It reflects India's premium whisky potential on the global map. McDowell's No. 1: One of the best-selling whisky brands in India and across the world, McDowell's No. 1 continues to hold its spot at the top. Launched in 1968, it remains a household name, winning India's most-loved whisky title in 2023. Officer's Choice: Also counted among the world's top 100 liquor brands, this affordable and widely consumed whisky continues to drive Indian presence in global alco-bev rankings. Indian Gins Gaining Global Spirit GinGin (GG): Inspired by the Sanskrit word Jijivisha (meaning 'lust for life"), this gin is packed with Indian botanicals and has won multiple gold medals at global competitions like the London Spirits Awards. Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin: Crafted in small batches at the historic Rampur Distillery, this gin combines eleven botanicals, seven of which are sourced from India. Its triple-distilled blend offers a smooth and distinctly Indian flavour. Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin: Named after the Sanskrit word for juniper berry, this gin gets its flavour from juniper grown in the Himalayan pine forests, alongside other native botanicals. Its earthy and crisp profile makes it a hit abroad. Old Favourites Rum And Beer Old Monk: A classic dark rum beloved across generations, Old Monk is now making waves internationally. Aged for seven years, its deep aroma carries notes of caramel, chocolate, ripe peach, and vanilla, though its taste is far less sweet than its scent suggests. Feni: A heritage spirit from Goa, Feni is made using cashew fruit or coconut and has been part of local traditions for centuries. Now, it is finding new fans abroad as a premium cocktail ingredient and boutique spirit. Bira 91: India's most globally visible craft beer brand, Bira 91 has become a youth favourite. It won a record seven awards at The European Beer Challenge, also known as the Oscars of the beer world, the most ever for an Indian beer company. The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : Alchohol alcoholic beverages beer Indian Single Malt Whiskey indian whiskey brands old monk Whisky view comments Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: August 04, 2025, 14:39 IST News lifestyle These Popular Indian Liquor Brands Are In Highest Demand Abroad Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
News18
31-07-2025
- General
- News18
Not Just For Cocktails: Busting The Biggest Misconceptions About Indian Rum
Today, Indian rum is undergoing a renaissance. From rustic beginnings to refined expressions, it's finding new fans and a bold new identity Rum, often seen as the liquid essence of celebration, has deep roots not just in the Caribbean but right here in India where sugarcane has long been a part of our land, culture and craft. Long before colonial influences, traditional Indian communities were fermenting sugarcane juice into spirited brews like laahan and sidhu earthy, homegrown expressions of what we now know as rum. During the colonial era, rum became even more popular, especially with British soldiers, and large-scale production began. Over time, it became a drink loved across the country from small towns to big cities, cutting across class and culture. Today, Indian rum is undergoing a renaissance. From rustic beginnings to refined expressions, it's finding new fans and a bold new identity. So, the next time you crave a sip of something meaningful, turn to the legacy of Indian rum. Whether enjoyed neat, in a vibrant cocktail or as part of a modern twist let it transport you through time from our ancient fields of cane to a future full of flavour and pride. Here's to breaking the myths and celebrating the irresistible charm of this iconic spirit. Myth 1: Every Rum Is Made Using Molasses It's a common belief that rum is only made from molasses, the byproduct of sugar production. While many rums do use molasses, some of the finest expressions are made from pure sugarcane juice, offering a fresher, more aromatic profile. Known as rhum agricole in the French Caribbean, and now increasingly embraced in India, this style brings a new level of complexity and terroir to the spirit. In fact, India is now one of the largest producers of cane juice rum, thanks to its abundant sugarcane cultivation and growing focus on craft spirits. Camikara, for example, is a pure cane juice rum that breaks away from molasses traditions, showcasing the untapped potential of India's sugarcane heritage. Myth 2: Rum is not barrel aged Contrary to popular belief, many rums are aged in barrels and can match the complexity of whisky. Old Monk is aged up to 7 years in oak, offering smooth, nostalgic warmth, while Nepal's Khukri Rum brings rich, woody depth through traditional aging. On the premium end, Camikara 12 YO: First Indian rum to win a Gold Medal at the prestigious IWSC — is aged for 12 years. Even younger expressions like Camikara 3 YO show how thoughtful aging brings balance and character. Rum, at its core, is a spirit of craftsmanship and care. Myth 3: Rum is only for winters In India, rum is often seen as a winter drink linked to army canteens and cold-weather comfort. But that's just one side of the story. Rum has always belonged to the tropical regions from the sun-soaked fields of Jamaica and Barbados to the sugarcane heartlands of India. seasons. Dark rums like Old Monk and Khukri XXX are winter favorites, but brands like Bacardi have long shown rum's refreshing side through summery cocktails. Today, Indian labels like Camikara are redefining rum as a versatile spirit just as suited to a chilled summer pour as a cozy winter one. Myth 4: Rum Is Always Flavoured Many people think of rum as a sweet, flavored spirit spiced, coconut, vanilla or tropical fruit infused. While flavoured rums have their place, especially in casual cocktails, they represent just one side of the category. The heart of true rum lies in its unflavored, pure expressions where the real flavour comes from the cane, the fermentation and the aging process. Rums like Old Monk, often mistaken as flavoured due to its rich vanilla and caramel notes, are in fact unflavoured dark rums, with their profile shaped by oak barrel aging. On the other end of the spectrum, Camikara made from 100% pure cane juice with no added flavours or sugars, highlight the spirit's natural complexity and craftsmanship. view comments First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Mint
22-07-2025
- Business
- Mint
Old Monk vs Old Mist: Why has Himachal Pradesh HC restrained Old Mist from selling its coffee rum? What next?
The Himachal Pradesh High Court has passed an ex parte interim order to restrain the sales of Old Mist coffee-flavoured rum, as well as stop its distribution. In the order dated July 9, the High Court's order comes following a complaint by Mohan Meaking Limited, the proprietor of the popular 'Old Monk ' brand, which has regained attention offlate with its own coffee-flavoured rum. Here is the Old Monk vs Old Mist case explained. The dispute between Old Monk maker Mohan Meaking and Old Mist manufacturer Eston Roman Brewery & Distillery arose in June 2025. Around this time, Mohan Meaking discovered that Eston Roman — a relatively new company incorporated in 2023 — was manufacturing, supplying, and distributing a coffee-flavoured rum, a hit for the Old Monk brand. It further discovered that the coffee-flavoured rum was being sold under the brand name of Old Mist, a name similar to Mohan Meaking's star Old Monk brand. Mohan Meaking filed a lawsuit and argued that the names 'Old Mist' and 'Old Monk' sound similar to each other, accusing Eston Roman of mimicking its brand name. It further said that the similar names could mislead consumers into thinking that both the brands have a connection. The lawsuit further accused Old Mist of bottling its product and labeling it in such a manner so as to pass it off as Old Monk Coffee, without having a trademark. Calling Mohan Meaking a 'pioneer' in the liquor industry, a bench of Justice Ajay Mohan Goel at the Himachal HC observed that Eston Roman Brewery & Distillery is a relatively new company, while the Old Monk maker has a registered trademark of its product Old Monk Coffee valid up to November 22, 2031. The court observed that the defendant's product was prima facie substantially similar to the plaintiff's registered trademark, 'Old Monk Coffee', in name as well as appearance. 'In these circumstances, if the infringement is allowed to continue, it is likely to cause confusion on the part of the public and the defendant obviously would be in a position to pass off its product as that of the plaintiff," the order said. Considering the 'balance of convenience' and the potential for 'irreparable loss', the court ordered a restrain on the selling and distrubution of Old Mist Coffee Rum, in an win for Old Monk Coffee. Following the HC's order, Eston Roman Brewery & Distillery will not be able to sell Old Mist Coffee Rum until further orders. Meanwhile, Old Monk maker Mohan Meaking has been directed to to serve the injunction order along with supporting documents to the defendants, in compliance with Order 39 Rule 3 of the Civil Procedure Code (CPC).
News18
21-07-2025
- Business
- News18
Old Monk: India's Best Rum Came From A Man Who Didn't Drink And Never Ran An Ad
Last Updated: Old Monk, India's iconic rum, has built a loyal fanbase, thanks to its taste, mystery, and legacy. However, its maker never drank a single sip, choosing a teetotal life instead No bar in India feels complete without a bottle of Old Monk, the country's most iconic rum. Convincing a dedicated Old Monk fan to switch to another brand is no easy task. Its loyal following is largely due to the fact that Old Monk has remained virtually unchanged since it was first introduced over seven decades ago. This consistency in taste and presentation has helped it become a staple in Indian households and beyond. A Taste That Stands The Test Of Time Old Monk is celebrated for its distinctive, rich flavour. Around a decade ago, rumours spread on social media suggesting that Mohan Meakin Limited, the company behind Old Monk, would cease production. The speculation sparked concern among its devoted fans, prompting the company to publicly assure consumers that Old Monk was not being discontinued. In fact, it remains India's most beloved rum and continues to enjoy widespread popularity. Interestingly, some believed the rumour to be a clever marketing tactic. However, the truth lies in a shift in promotional strategy. In 2012, Kapil Mohan, the then-chairman of Mohan Meakin, decided to stop actively marketing Old Monk. In an interview, he explained that he preferred the product to speak for itself and be shared through word of mouth. Another popular belief is that the rum's deep, complex taste resembles the wisdom of an old man. The brand's name, much like its recipe, remains shrouded in mystery, adding to its enduring charm. A Teetotaler's Gift To The Rum World A surprising fact about Old Monk is that Kapil Mohan, the man who popularised the brand, never drank alcohol himself. A staunch teetotaller with a fondness for tea, he took over the family business after retiring from the army, following the death of his elder brother Ved Ratan Mohan, who originally created Old Monk. Though the brand was launched in the 1960s, it gained a distinct identity under Kapil Mohan's leadership from 1973 onwards. Under his guidance, Old Monk grew in both national and international popularity, becoming the world's best-selling dark rum by the year 2000. From Colonial Roots To Global Recognition Mohan Meakin Limited was formed shortly after Indian independence when MN Mohan, Kapil Mohan's father, acquired a British-owned distillery. The company had originally been established in 1885 in Chamoli, Himachal Pradesh, by the father of infamous British officer General Dyer. Over the decades, Old Monk's production soared, with sales at one point reaching 8 million bottles per day. However, the brand experienced a dip when Rakesh Mohan, Kapil Mohan's nephew, sold the company's Lucknow facility to businessman Ponty Chadha, which reportedly affected distribution and sales. A Classic That Never Changed Old Monk's enduring appeal lies in its consistency. Since 1954, its signature XXX rum has remained a best-seller. The brand also offers Supreme and Gold Reserve variants aged up to 12 years, yet the original seven-year-old chocolate-brown blend continues to be its most loved product. The shape of the bottle and its label design have also remained consistent, creating a sense of nostalgia and brand identity. Remarkably, Old Monk has never relied on advertising, instead building its enormous fanbase through reputation alone. Loved Across The Globe Old Monk isn't just cherished in India. The rum has a devoted following in over 50 countries, including the UK, USA, Russia, Germany, Japan, Canada, Kenya, New Zealand, and the UAE. Many fans describe it as the smoothest rum they've ever tasted, with the added bonus of rarely causing a hangover, making it a favourite for repeat enjoyment. News18's viral page features trending stories, videos, and memes, covering quirky incidents, social media buzz from india and around the world, Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published: Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
NDTV
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- NDTV
How Old Monk Became One Of India's Most Beloved Rum And Why It Still Reigns
Old Monk, in Indian homes, evokes pure nostalgia. It is not just a rum; it is a sentiment shared across generations. Whether you remember sipping it by the bonfire with college mates, sneaking it into hostels on chilly winter nights, or gifting it in brown paper bags to your favourite uncle, Old Monk has seen it all. Its sweet, spiced warmth is familiar, like a long-lost friend who shows up just when you need them. Despite its modest label and complete absence of advertising, Old Monk became a legacy poured from generation to generation. So, on this World Rum Day, we raise a toast to the stories, the winter nights, the laughter, and to this 71-year-old rum that never tried to be cool, but always was. Also Read: Rum Butter To Mojito: 6 Rum-Based Recipes You Must Try History And Origin Of Old Monk: It All Started In Colonial India Old Monk's roots date back to the mid-19th century, high up in the hills of Kasauli. In 1855, a Scotsman named Edward Dyer (father of General Dyer, 'infamous' for the Jallianwala Bagh massacre in 1919) set up a brewery to supply cheap beer to British soldiers stationed in the region. As time passed and the tides of independence rolled in, the brewery changed hands and eventually became Mohan Meakin, led by N.N. Mohan, who gave it a distinctly Indian soul. But the game changer came in 1954, when his son, Ved Rattan Mohan, a retired army colonel, created Old Monk. According to food historians, the name was inspired by the peaceful, contemplative lives of Benedictine monks he admired during his travels abroad. After Ved Mohan's passing, his brother Kapil Mohan, the name most closely associated with Old Monk today, took charge and turned it into the country's largest-selling liquor brand. It is a drink that never shouted, never advertised, yet found its way into homes, hearts, and brown-paper-bag gifts across India. Also Read: The Rum Ball - Among Kolkata's Many Sweet Obsessions (Recipe Inside) A Rum That's Truly Indian With A Global Appeal Today, Old Monk is crafted across six production units located in various cities across India, including its birthplace Kasauli. While rooted deeply in Indian drinking culture, the brand's influence stretches across Asia, America, and parts of Europe, quietly earning devoted fans. Aged for seven years in oak barrels, Old Monk's flavour is bold and comforting. Notes of vanilla, caramel, chocolate, and spice come together in every sip. Whether you mix it with cola, pour it over ice, or enjoy it neat, this rum delivers a warmth that lingers long after the glass is empty. According to each bottle is handmade from start to finish, maintaining its artisanal charm and unmistakable character. The website also notes that since 1982, Old Monk has received multiple gold medals from Monde Selection, an international award for excellence in quality. Also Read: 13 Top Rum Brands You Must Have In Your Collection Netaji And The Gumnami Baba Theory: A Curious Twist One of the most debated theories around Old Monk suggest that the name was actually a tribute to Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose, who, according to some historians and curious minds, lived in disguise as a spiritual recluse known as Gumnami Baba in Uttar Pradesh. As per this theory, Colonel Ved Rattan Mohan met Gumnami Baba in the 1950s and was so moved by his presence that he named the rum "Old Monk" in secret homage to Netaji's ascetic post-independence life. But to be clear, there is no verified evidence supporting this claim and the official story remains grounded in European inspiration. Still, the rumour thrives on social media, pub debates, and nostalgic conversations, adding a layer of intrigue that Old Monk almost wears like a badge. So, the next time you reach for a bottle of Old Monk, take a moment. You are not just drinking rum, you are sipping on history, memory, and maybe even a dash of mystery. Disclaimer: This article is meant to share the story and cultural significance of the spirit. It does not encourage or promote alcohol consumption. If you choose to drink, please do so responsibly and only if you are of legal drinking ag e. Advertisement About Somdatta Saha Explorer- this is what Somdatta likes to call herself. Be it in terms of food, people or places, all she craves for is to know the unknown. A simple aglio olio pasta or daal-chawal and a good movie can make her day. For the latest food news, health tips and recipes, like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter and YouTube. Tags: Old Monk Rum History Of Old Monk World Rum Day India's Iconic Rum Popular Indian Rum Show full article Comments
