Rampur Jugalbandi #6 Crowned Best World Single Malt at John Barleycorn Awards 2025
Radico Khaitan Ltd., one of the largest homegrown alco-bev companies, continues its winning streak on the global stage. In a stellar achievement for Indian whisky, Rampur Jugalbandi #6 has been named Best World Single Malt at the prestigious John Barleycorn Awards 2025, USA. Adding to the triumph, Rampur Select secured a Double Gold, while Jugalbandi #5 earned Gold in the Indian Single Malt – Tokaji Finish category, reinforcing Rampur’s position among the finest in the world.
Taking centre stage, Rampur Jugalbandi #6 was awarded Best World Single Malt; aged in rare Madeira casks the liquid is an exploration in bold maturation and flavour depth.
Rampur Select was awarded Double Gold in the taste competition under the Single Malt Whisky category for its signature smoothness and fruit-forward character. And Rampur Jugalbandi #5 received a Gold in the Indian Single Malt Whisky – Tokaji Finish category, for its elegant and experimental cask finish, further cementing Rampur’s growing legacy in the international whisky landscape.
The John Barleycorn Awards are among the most respected honours in the spirits world, judged by leading writers and industry veterans who spotlight craftsmanship, quality, and innovation across categories.
Mr. Sanjeev Banga, President – International Business, Radico Khaitan Ltd., said, “It is truly gratifying to see Indian single malts gaining such remarkable global recognition. Rampur’s consistent wins at international platforms mark a meaningful milestone for us. These accolades reaffirm our belief that when whisky is crafted with authenticity, passion, and purpose, it resonates across cultures and continents. We are proud to share this moment with our teams and our consumers who believe in our journey.”
Mr. Kunal Madan, Vice President – International Business, Radico Khaitan Ltd., added, “Rampur Jugalbandi #6 is a testament to our bold and evolving whisky craft. This win places it among the world’s finest, reflecting a uniquely Indian story of innovation rooted in tradition. The Jugalbandi series reflects our creative vision, and expressions like Jugalbandi #5 and Rampur Select continue to showcase the versatility and craftsmanship at the heart of Rampur. These recognitions inspire us to keep pushing the boundaries of innovation while staying true to our roots.”
For Radico Khaitan, these recognitions reflect a long-term commitment to crafting luxury spirits of international calibre. The secret to Rampur’s appeal lies in its Himalayan provenance — the region’s seasonal extremes, especially the intense Indian summer, lend the whisky a maturity and complexity that’s hard to replicate.
Crafted at the historic Rampur Distillery, Rampur Select reflects the warmth of the Indian summer, layered with vanilla, spice, and hints of caramel. Jugalbandi #5, finished in Tokaji casks, marries Indian character with European refinement. Jugalbandi #6, finished in Madeira casks, explores a deeper, more opulent flavour profile — a bold step forward for Indian malts. With growing demand across the United States, Europe, and global travel retail zones, the Rampur portfolio continues to establish new benchmarks for premium Indian whiskies.
Above views are of the author and not of the website kindly read disclaimer
