7 Whiskies for enjoy this weekend

Weekends are meant to be savoured, and a good whisky has a way of slowing things down just enough. Whether you’re unwinding after a long week, hosting a small gathering at home, or simply enjoying a quiet evening to yourself, the right dram can set the tone. From smooth, easy-going pours to richer, more complex expressions, these seven whiskies are perfect for easing into the weekend—best enjoyed at your own pace, however you like it.

1. Whistler Whisky

Whistler Barrel Aged Blended Malt Whisky is a refined blend of mature malt and grain whiskies, patiently aged in oak barrels to develop a rich, layered profile. With warm notes of dried apple, apricot, vanilla cream, and toasted oak on the nose, Whistler delivers a silky palate of rich malt, toffee, pineapple, and gentle spice. The medium finish leaves a graceful trail of mellow sweetness and refinement.

Price: 750 ml | INR 750-1500/- depending on the state and availability.

Availability: Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Goa, Uttarakhand, Delhi, West Bengal, Daman and Uttar Pradesh.

2. Amrut Prestige Blended Malt Whisky

From the distillery that recently claimed the title of India's most-selling single malt brand comes this exceptional blended malt. Amrut Prestige is crafted from carefully selected malt whiskies, creating a complex flavor profile with layers of caramel, dried fruits, and warming spices that linger beautifully on the palate. Whether you prefer it neat, on the rocks, or as the foundation of a sophisticated cocktail, this whisky delivers the kind of quality that makes Amrut a household name.

Price: 750 ml | INR 800-1200/- depending on state and availability

3. Milestone Blue Whisky – A Celebration of Indian Craftsmanship

Milestone Blue embodies the finest traditions of Indian whisky-making. With its rich amber color and refined texture, this whisky opens with an inviting aroma of honey, ripe fruits, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it reveals a beautifully layered profile of caramel, vanilla, and dried fruits that leads to a warm, comforting finish. Each sip feels sophisticated yet approachable—a true testament to homegrown excellence.

Price: 1000 ml | INR 905

4. Oaksmith International – Indo-Japanese Fusion

This unique Indo-Japanese crossover from Beam Suntory brings together two whisky-making traditions in one bottle. Oaksmith offers a smooth, slightly sweet palate that marries Indian warmth with Japanese precision and finesse. Light, clean, and just edgy enough to stand out, it's perfect for those who appreciate innovation and international flair at a local price.

Price: 750 ml | INR 635-750/- approximately

5. Paul John Nirvana Single Malt

 Hailing from the sunny shores of Goa, this flavoursome Indian single malt by Paul John is part of the distillery has gained appreciation from critics and connoisseurs alike. With notes of light citrus with manuka honey, the earthy-tasting, deep amber liquid blends fruits with a tinge of spice. This complex, award-winning whisky, matured for seven years in white oak casks, offers a balanced dryness and a rich, creamy mouthfeel with a hint of butterscotch sweetness. 

Price: INR2,570.

6. MacRoys blended scotch

From the house of Angus Dundee, one of Scotland’s most respected distillers, MacRoys Blended Scotch carries the signature of fine ageing and balance. The blend matures exclusively in first-fill bourbon casks, revealing rich layers of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The Extra Peat Variant matures in both bourbon and sherry casks, bringing together notes of honey, chocolate, and vanilla with a measured smokiness. The Sherry Cask Finish, the only blended Scotch in India with this finish, adds warmth and depth with a refined sweetness.

Price & availability: Delhi – INR 1,780 for a 750 ml bottle. Also available in Delhi, Punjab, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, and Odisha for civil supplies.

7. Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky

Woodburns Contemporary Indian Whisky represents India’s exciting take on small-batch, artisanal whisky-making. Distilled with precision and care, it delivers a bold, characterful profile that belies its affordable price. On the nose, expect subtle smokiness intertwined with rich chocolate and a hint of dried fruits, leading to a palate that is smooth yet layered with spice, caramel, and gentle oak. Its slightly smoky undertones give it a distinctive edge, while the chocolatey warmth makes it versatile for sipping neat or enjoying in classic cocktails. Woodburns is proof that Indian craft whisky can stand proudly alongside international counterparts, offering complexity, depth, and personality without the premium price tag.

Price: INR 3,000