Holi is a time of vibrant celebrations, unforgettable moments, and indulgent feasts, making it the perfect occasion to elevate your drinks selection with Indian artisanal spirits. Crafted with precision from locally sourced ingredients, these spirits bring authenticity and creativity to the glass, enhancing every festive toast. As the demand for high-quality, homegrown spirits continues to grow, India’s artisanal distillers are redefining the drinking experience with small-batch whiskies, craft gins, botanical-infused vodkas, and unique aged rums.
Artisanal spirits have gained immense popularity in India, offering distinctive flavours and a deeper connection to regional ingredients and techniques. These spirits focus on quality over quantity, using natural infusions, traditional distillation methods, and innovative ageing processes. Since most artisanal spirits are released in small batches, they create a sense of excitement among consumers and promise a unique drinking experience that is savoured by a select few, thus giving them an air of exclusivity.
Holi is the ultimate festival of togetherness, joy, and indulgence, and artisanal spirits add an elevated touch to every celebration. Whether it’s a signature cocktail station, neat pours of finely aged spirits, or a festive twist on classic drinks, the right spirit can add tons of spunk to your party. Pair them with flavour-packed Holi delicacies, experiment with new mixers, or simply savour them in their purest form—these carefully crafted spirits make every sip more memorable.
Also Read: Best Summer Cocktails For Holi
Best Indian Artisanal Spirits to Elevate Your Holi Party
Smoke Lab Green Chilli Mango Vodka
Smoke Lab Green Chilli Mango Vodka is a bold and adventurous craft spirit, perfect for adding a fiery kick to Holi celebrations. Infused with spicy green chilli and luscious ripe mango, it delivers a vibrant balance of heat and sweetness, creating an exciting flavour profile. The silky smooth texture enhances its versatility, making it ideal for festive cocktails or sipping over ice with a lime wedge. Its unique fusion of Indian flavours shines in a Mango-Chilli Martini or a spicy Holi spritz, adding a playful twist to traditional drinks. A must-try for those who love bold and dynamic spirits.
Producer: NV Distilleries and Breweries Pvt Ltd
Price: ₹2,400
Himalayan Sipping Rum IDAAYA
Himalayan Sipping Rum IDAAYA is a luxuriously aged Indian rum, crafted for those who appreciate depth and refinement. After 12 years in oak barrels, it develops rich notes of molasses, dried fruit, warm vanilla, and a touch of toasted coconut and spice. The smooth, well-rounded profile makes it perfect for sipping neat, crafting a Rum Old Fashioned, or adding warmth to Holi dessert cocktails. Its caramelised richness pairs beautifully with festive sweets like gujiya and malpua, enhancing their indulgent flavours. A celebratory spirit, this aged rum is ideal for savouring the essence of Holi in every sip.
Producer: Those Good Distillers Pvt Ltd
Price: ₹11,500
Kumaon & I Himalayan Artisanal Dry Gin
Kumaon&I Himalayan Artisanal Dry Gin is a distinctive small-batch gin, crafted with handpicked Himalayan botanicals for a truly elevated sipping experience. It exudes fresh juniper, wild herbs, and zesty citrus, layered with aromatic spices and a crisp mountain air freshness. The smooth and balanced character makes it ideal for classic gin cocktails like a G&T or a refreshing gin sour. For a festive Holi twist, try it in a saffron-infused gin spritz or a floral gin punch. A bold yet elegant choice, this artisanal gin brings the essence of the Himalayas to every celebratory toast.
Producer: Himalaya Wine Company Private Limited
Price: ₹3,525
Also Read: How To Set Up A DIY Holi-Themed Bar
Holi Food Pairing Tips:
No matter what spirits you serve at your party, use these tips to create delicious food pairings that will create the perfect experience for your guests.
Pair spirits with spicy and exotic flavours with spicy chaats, tandoori prawns, or mango-based Holi cocktails.
For spirits with deep and complex flavours, pair them with classic Holi sweets like gujiya, malpua, or spiced rum-based desserts.
For drinks with refreshing and floral aromas, Thandai-infused gin cocktails, cucumber salads, or citrus-based Holi snacks are your best bet.
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