In a major win for India’s growing premium spirits industry, Sangam World Malt Whisky, a recent launch by Rampur Distillery, has been crowned ‘Spirit of the Year’ at the Bartender Spirits Awards 2025. The event, held in Chicago, saw Sangam triumph over dozens of international entries — all judged by top bartenders, bar managers, and beverage buyers from across the United States.
Launched in July 2024 by Radico Khaitan, Sangam is a young entrant that has already built a reputation for elegance and innovation. The whisky’s win marks not only an industry milestone but also a major validation of India’s homegrown spirits on the world stage.
Global Recognition: More Than Just One Award
Sangam didn’t stop at one title. In addition to winning ‘Spirit of the Year’ at the Bartender Spirits Awards, it also bagged:
- A Gold Medal at the John Barleycorn Awards
- Recognition at the BTI Luxury Spirits Award 2023 (Beverage Tasting Institute, USA)
This clean sweep across prestigious global competitions places Sangam World Malt Whisky firmly on the radar of international connoisseurs.
Why It’s Called “Sangam”
The name ‘Sangam’, derived from Sanskrit, means ‘confluence’ — a fitting symbol for this whisky’s character. It beautifully fuses Eastern traditions with Western whisky-making techniques, offering a multi-dimensional experience in every sip.
Distillation Process: Art Meets Science
What makes Sangam special is its multi-stage distillation process:
- Begins with malting of Indian barley
- Follows through with mashing, fermentation, and double distillation in traditional copper pot stills
- The spirit is then matured in a blend of American Bourbon casks and Indian Red Wine (Cabernet Sauvignon) barrels
This unique barrel-aging gives Sangam a layered richness rarely found in whiskies of its age.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavours
Sangam World Malt Whisky offers a sensory journey:
Finish: Long, smooth, and complex — a mark of mature craftsmanship
Aroma: Tropical fruits like lychee and green apple, with floral notes of rose and heather, rounded by citrus, caramel, and warm spices
Palate: Creamy and fruity with subtle peaty undertones. Expect dominant hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla, and a gentle touch of honeyed wine.
Alcohol By Volume (ABV): 43% — ideal for sipping neat or with a splash of water
750 ml Bottle Prices:
₹4,350 in Goa
₹7,200 in Mumbai
₹4,990 in Bengaluru
Availability in India
Sangam World Malt Whisky is currently available across multiple Indian states, including:
- Uttar Pradesh
- Maharashtra
- Goa
- Rajasthan
- Karnataka
- Chandigarh
- Uttarakhand
- Haryana
This expansion strategy is a sign that Radico Khaitan is gearing up for both domestic dominance and global distribution.
