Raise a Toast to Love: 4 Indian Single Malts Perfect for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is about slowing down, celebrating togetherness, and creating moments that linger long after the evening ends. This year, go beyond the usual wine-and-roses routine and raise a toast with a glass of exceptional Indian single malt whisky. Valentine’s Day calls for experiences that feel thoughtful, elevated, and a little indulgent. This year, swap the predictable celebrations for something more distinctive—an exceptional Indian single malt whisky. Crafted with precision and matured in India’s unique climate, these whiskies reveal layers of honeyed sweetness, warm spice, rich oak, dark chocolate, and gentle smoke. Sophisticated yet inviting, they transform an ordinary evening into a celebration of flavour, craftsmanship, and shared moments.

1. DeVANS GianChand Adambaraa & Manshaa 

Located in the foothills of the Himalayas in Jammu, DeVANS has two very different-yet equally enticing-whiskeys that are perfect for cold weather. Its unpeated Adambaraa has been aged in ex-bourbon barrels from the U.S., which gives it a deep amber color along with aromas of dried apricots, honey and caramel plus hints of lightly toasted spices; resulting in an extremely warm and delicious sensation to sip through frostbite.

In contrast, the peated Manshaa (Laggerbach) has an intense, lengthy medicinal/peat smoke that is contrasted with citrus and spice layers creating a smooth comforting smokiness, reminiscent of a warm hearth. Both earned numerous international awards in 2025 including Best Indian Single Malt at Whisky Magazine’s International Whisky Competition as well as Grand Gold/International Whisky of the Year at Meininger’s ISW which exemplifies the quality of whiskies produced from purity and quality of craftsmanship found in the Himalayas that provide warmth from inside out.

2. Indri Single Malt Whisky 
   Crafted in the Himalayan foothills of Haryana, Indri has emerged as one of India’s most celebrated single malts. Matured in three different casks—ex-bourbon, wine, and PX sherry—it reveals layers of dried fruits, vanilla, honey, warm spices, and gentle oak.

The balance between sweetness and spice makes Indri an excellent Valentine’s pour—refined yet expressive. Crowned “Best World Whisky” at the Miami Global Spirit Awards and recipient of multiple global honours in 2025, it brings both prestige and pleasure to the table.

3. Amrut Single Malt Whisky – Bold and Intense
A true pioneer, Amrut was the first Indian distillery to gain worldwide acclaim for single malts. Matured in India’s intense subtropical climate, its whiskies develop remarkable depth and character.

Expressions like Amrut Peated Cask Strength offer powerful smoke balanced with sweet spice and oak, while the Amrut 15-Year-Old Expedition delivers mature richness and layered complexity. In 2025, Amrut claimed “World’s Best Whisky” at the International Spirits Challenge, alongside multiple gold medals.

For those who appreciate depth and complexity, Amrut is a compelling choice—meant for slow sipping and meaningful moments.

4. Paul John Single Malt Whisky 
Crafted on the scenic shores of Goa, Paul John delivers tropical maturation at its finest, resulting in barley-driven whiskies bursting with richness and versatility. Look for expressions like Oloroso or PX Select Cask, which offer suave notes of dark chocolate, honey, vanilla, and subtle maritime hints; creating a layered warmth that feels indulgent on cold nights.

With multiple Master medals and golds at the 2025 World Whisky Masters, plus global exports to 49 countries, this brand’s sophisticated balance of tradition and bold flavors makes it a delightful winter warmer.