India is one of the largest consumer markets for vodka. The clear distilled alcohol beverage finds many buyers due to its neutral taste which makes a good drink without any mixing and blends well with chasers and other flavors. It can be enjoyed on the rocks just as easily as it can be made into a zesty, refreshing cocktail. Vodka is traditionally made from fermented grains and potatoes. But nowadays it is being used with fruits and nuts also. While the origins of the drink can be traced to Poland, Russia and Sweden, many other countries, including India, are taking advantage of production opportunities. Here, we bring you a list of some popular vodka brands that are widely available in India. Give them a try.
(Also read: These cocktails can be made at home in 15 minutes)
9 of the best vodka brands in India that are worth trying:
1. Short Story Vodka:
If you want to taste something new and refreshing, be sure to try Short Story Vodka. Launched in September 2022, this homegrown brand offers charcoal-filtered grain vodka that adds refreshing flavor to your palate. It is currently available in Mumbai, Goa, Delhi and Bengaluru.
2. U’luvka Vodka
A Polish luxury vodka from the Wielkopolska region, it is made using four grains – rye, wheat, barley and oats – balanced to perfection. U’luwka is best known as the spirit of a famous vodka, created using a precise formula by a renowned alchemist at the court of King Sigismund III of Poland in the 16th century. It contains notes of fresh and ripe grains and is clean and realistically directed. It comes with a good range of spices, sherbets and nutritional nuances. This vodka is delicate with a creamy, buttery character and a balance of sweet, salty and spicy flavours, with the underlying dryness further expanded with freshness and spice. Additionally, the vibrant grain finish preserves freshness and continues to deliver flavor.
3. White Mischief
This vodka became popular due to its association with IPL cheerleaders. Under the aegis of United Breweries Group, White Mischief has reportedly achieved a massive market share of 46%, making it the best-selling vodka in India. What really makes it appealing among young consumers is its variety, which includes Strawberry+Ginseng, Mango+Mint and Green Apple+Cinnamon.
4. Mystery
Have you ever wondered what India in a bottle would taste like? Enter Rahasya, (pronounced Ra-hus-ya), a premium craft vodka inspired by the mysticism and folklore of India. Meaning ‘rahasya’ or ‘secret’ in Sanskrit, Rahasya was conceived with the intention of creating a carefully researched product from India for the world. Launched by Verna Bhatt of Blisswater Industries Pvt Ltd, Rahasya is a Goa-based craft vodka that truly captures the essence of India. Crisp notes with a refreshing taste, this vodka is best enjoyed plain and simple over ice, making it an extremely pleasant and delicious white spirit.
Rahasya is a Goa based vodka brand.
5. Kyiv Vodka
Kiev Vodka is a smooth and refreshing vodka that is easily available in many states of India including Delhi, Haryana, Chandigarh, Punjab and Uttarakhand. Made from high quality grains, this vodka has a crisp and clean flavor with a subtle hint of sweetness. It is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed alone or mixed with other beverages. Kiev Vodka is a great choice for those who enjoy good vodka and want a quality product at an affordable price.
6. Billion Air Vodka
This light vodka is made from 98% American corn and 2% wheat and offers a light floral flavor. This vodka is distilled in the US and bottled at Vrun’s Sonar Beverages in Palghar, Maharashtra. Billion Air Vodka is perfect for those who want a soothing drink with a pleasant taste.
7. Smoke Lab Vodka
Another exceptional vodka made right here in India is Smoke Lab Vodka, and the great part? It is prepared using Indian Basmati rice! This vodka goes through a 5-step distillation process and is charcoal-filtered, making it extremely smooth. Plus, it comes in two flavors – classic and anise-flavored fennel. It is the brainchild of Varun Jain, co-founder and CEO of Smoke Lab, who wanted to create a brand that would resonate with the urban youth crowd. And with its sleek, modern bottle, it has that vibe. Smoke Lab Vodka comes in three bold flavors: Smoke Lab Saffron Vodka, made with Kashmiri saffron for a rich aroma and hint of bitterness; Smoke Lab Fennel Vodka combines basmati rice with fennel for a sweet, nutty flavor for a creamy texture; And Smoke Lab Classic India Vodka offers a smooth, floral shade with a splash of citrus.
8. Magic moment
This vodka from Radico Khaitan has been in the market for a long time and still remains a favorite of many people. It is produced from high quality grains and distilled three times to give it a smooth finish. This drink has 40% alcohol content but is very pleasant to the palate.
(Also Read: 5 DIY Cocktail Recipes With A South Indian Twist)
Magic Moments is an old Indian vodka brand.
9. Romanov
This vodka is rated as an affordable drink for the masses. It is produced by United Spirits, a subsidiary of United Breweries Group. The name ‘Romanov’ comes from the Russian Romanov dynasty which ruled for centuries until the 1900s. The vodka has a tart note with an underlying hint of spiciness. So, for those who like drinks with a spicy taste, this vodka is a good choice.
Which of these vodka brands have you tried and liked? Share in the comments section below.
