From whisky to wine, Maharaja Drinks brings the best of India’s premium spirits heritage to the UK

Whether you’re a whisky enthusiast, a fan of Indian cuisine, or simply a lover of premium drinks, new online emporium Maharaja Drinks promises a journey of discovery and delight to expand your palate. 

From the sun-kissed vineyards of Nashik to the tea estates of Darjeeling, this new destination aims to redefine perceptions of Indian drinks, for connoisseurs, casual drinkers, and adventurous home mixologists alike.

Already the third-largest market for alcoholic beverages, India has seen a remarkable surge in innovation and craftsmanship in its drinks industry over the past five years.

Co-founder Ipe Jacob described the company’s mission as “shaking up what UK drinks enthusiasts understand of both India and its rich array of crafted drinks.” From heritage whiskies and craft beers to artisanal teas and coffees, the outlet is a  celebration of India’s rapidly evolving drinks culture.

From heritage whiskies and craft beers to artisanal teas and coffees, the outlet celebrates India’s rapidly evolving drinks culture…

Discover India’s rich beverage culture

We’ve taken an early look at what’s on offer from Maharaja Drinks, and found a meticulously curated selection.

Whisky fans are well catered for, with offerings like Paul John Brilliance, a non-chill filtered symphony of barley, caramel, vanilla, and citrus, bottled at 46% ABV; the smoky yet rich Amrut Peated (46% ABV), and the decadent Rampur Asava (45% ABV), finished in Indian Cabernet Sauvignon casks for a tropical and fruity profile. 

The Luxe Review sampled Rampur’s Double Cask single malt. This non-chill filtered expression is bottled at 45% ABV, and is a marvellous marriage of bourbon barrels and European Oak sherry casks.

Gin enthusiasts are advised to try Nil Girisi Indian Dry Gin, or the intriguing Broken Bat Gin, infused with cricket bats for a distinctive, woody flavour!

The wine selection includes elegant reds and whites from producers like Reveilo and Good Earth, alongside exotic fruit wines from Rhythm Winery, while craft brews like Goa’s Maka Wheat beer bring a taste of India’s burgeoning beer scene to the UK.

It’s not all about booze either. Maharaja Drinks also tempts with Indian tea and coffee. From Kolony and Tea n Teas to Wah Tea, there’s a variety of Indian teas on offer, including floral-infused black teas and earthy green options. Coffee lovers can indulge in beans grown in Karnataka’s Chikmagalur region, roasted to perfection by Blue Tokai.

You can also explore India’s eclectic soft drinks scene. The line-up features kombuchas and India’s first non-alcoholic functional beverages from Borécha, catering to the growing demand for healthier options. We couldn’t resist ordering the Masla Cola.

While the offerings will undoubtedly resonate with UK-born Indians seeking a taste of home, the appeal extends to a broader audience. With an emphasis on high-quality, premium drinks, Maharaja Drinks caters to those adventurers who value sustainability, innovation, and bold flavours.

Maharaja Drinks says it’ll platform artisanal craftsmanship and eco-conscious practices.

This focus on quality hasn’t gone unnoticed. Acclaimed Indian chef Cyrus Todiwala of London’s Café Spice Namaste called Maharaja Drinks “an impressive range curated with deep knowledge and real care.” Similarly, Kiran Patil of Reveilo Wines highlighted the growing demand for Indian wines in the UK’s flourishing Indian restaurant scene.

To explore the world of Indian premium spirits more, visit Maharaja Drinks here.