Rampur and Jaisalmer Give Indian Luxury Spirits a More Confident Voice

For Indian drinks enthusiasts, the premium shelf is becoming a more interesting place to browse. Alongside established international names, homegrown single malts and craft gins are developing their own identities and ambitions. A Financial Express profile published this week places Radico Khaitan’s transformation within that story, tracing the Khaitan family’s journey from a bulk distillery business to a portfolio that includes Rampur Indian Single Malt and Jaisalmer Indian Craft Gin.

The family purchased the struggling Rampur distillery in Uttar Pradesh in 1972 for ₹16 lakh. For years, its business centred on supplying alcohol to other producers. The shift towards its own consumer brands gathered momentum with the launch of 8PM whisky in 1998, followed by expansion into categories including vodka and, eventually, luxury spirits. This week’s profile identifies Rampur and Jaisalmer among the products driving the company’s premium ambitions.

Earlier reporting helps put that ambition into perspective. In July, managing director Abhishek Khaitan told PTI that the company’s luxury portfolio had generated ₹475 crore in turnover during FY26. He outlined expectations for 20 per cent growth in premium volumes and 25 per cent growth in luxury value during FY27. Those figures represent management’s outlook, but they indicate where the company sees its next opportunity.

For the consumer, one particularly relevant development is the attempt to reach a wider range of single malt drinkers. The same report described Rampur 1943 Virasat as an entry-level luxury expression priced at approximately ₹3,500 to ₹4,000 for a 750ml bottle. Khaitan said the existing Rampur range extended from ₹8,500 to ₹5 lakh, suggesting a portfolio designed to accommodate both an initial exploration and a much more exclusive purchase. These were reported prices in July, rather than a current nationwide retail guide.

The international audience matters too. Khaitan said the business had a presence in 100 countries and 63 duty-free outlets, with plans to expand the latter. Airport retail offers Indian spirits an opportunity to meet travellers who may be encountering the category for the first time.

The enduring interest lies in how these brands establish a recognisable character in the glass. For wine lovers accustomed to exploring place, craftsmanship and individual expression, Indian spirits offer a parallel field of discovery. Commercial growth may bring a label to the shelf; the pleasure of returning to it will depend on what the bottle delivers.

Sources
The Financial Express, Abhishek AB, October 11, 2026
The Economic Times, PTI, July 5, 2026, background reporting on the premium portfolio