Indian whisky is moving into the spotlight, and Royal Ranthambore is one of the brands leading that transformation.
Created by Radico Khaitan, the company behind Rampur single malt, it combines Indian grain spirit with imported Scotch malts to deliver a refined blend inspired by royal Rajasthan.
So, let’s explore what makes Royal Ranthambore unique, how it tastes, what it costs, and why it’s being called the new face of Indian luxury whisky.
What Is Royal Ranthambore Whisky?
Royal Ranthambore is a premium Indian blended whisky created by Radico Khaitan, the company behind Rampur Single Malt. It blends several Scotch malt whiskies with Indian grain spirit to create a smooth, rounded character. Blanton’s Explained: The Complete Guide to All 8 Whiskeys
The brand draws its name and design from Ranthambore in Rajasthan, a region famous for its royal history and Bengal tigers.
Marketed as “Royal Crafted Whisky,” it bridges Indian tradition and Scotch expertise, aiming to show that India can produce spirits with luxury appeal. Since its 2021 launch, it has become one of the country’s fastest-growing premium whiskies.
Where Is Royal Ranthambore Whisky Made?
Royal Ranthambore comes from the Rampur Distillery in Uttar Pradesh, a site operated by Radico Khaitan, one of India’s most experienced spirit producers. Radico has spent decades perfecting both Indian grain distillation and malt blending, knowledge that now shapes this luxury release.
The brand itself is inspired by Rajasthan’s Ranthambore region, known for its medieval forts and tiger reserve. The design reflects that connection: regal blues, gold detailing, and coordinates from the park appear on the label.
Behind the concept is Radico’s vision to pair traditional Indian craftsmanship with international whisky-making techniques, creating a whisky that feels both local and world-class.
How Royal Ranthambore Whisky Tastes
Royal Ranthambore was designed to be smooth, layered, and easy to enjoy. On the nose, it opens with soft aromas of caramel, vanilla, and oak. There are gentle hints of dried fruit and spice that reveal its Scotch influence.
The palate follows with flavors of honey, toffee, and a trace of smoke, balanced by creamy sweetness. The finish is long and warming with touches of malt, oak, and citrus.
A reviewer at Good Spirits News described it as “lightly smoked, [with] medium malt sweetness, and a light body,” similar to a Highland-style Scotch. It’s a whisky that feels polished without being heavy-handed.
Price and Availability: Where to Buy Royal Ranthambore Whisky
In India, Royal Ranthambore is positioned in the premium segment. It typically retails for around ₹1,500 to ₹2,000 for a 750 ml bottle, though state taxes and local mark-ups affect the final price.
In the U.S., online listings show the 750 ml bottle priced between US$40 and US$60.
In the UK and Europe, one retailer lists it at £25–£30 for a 0.75 L bottle.
Availability outside India remains limited. In India, it’s found in major cities and premium outlets, and the brand’s recent listing in the Canteen Stores Department (CSD) suggests growing reach in the armed-forces retail channel.
Is Royal Ranthambore Whisky Worth The Hype?
Royal Ranthambore’s rise isn’t only about smart branding — it’s also been recognized on the global stage. The whisky earned the International High Quality Trophy at the Monde Selection Awards 2024 after winning Gold or Grand Gold for three consecutive years, and a Gold medal at The Fifty Best World Whisky 2023.
It may not be the most complex whisky on the shelf, but it delivers quality and refinement that justify the attention, especially for those exploring premium Indian blends.
Similar Indian Whiskies to Try Next
Royal Ranthambore is part of a new generation of Indian whiskies gaining global recognition. For those who want to explore further, start with Rampur Single Malt, also from Radico Khaitan, known for its tropical fruit and spice notes. Amrut Fusion remains a benchmark, once ranked the world’s third-best whisky by Jim Murray’s Whisky Bible 2010.
Paul John Mithuna from Goa offers bold richness and was named the third-best whisky in the world in 2021. Finally, Indri Trini from Haryana was crowned Whisky of the Year 2024 at the USA Spirits Ratings.
Together, they showcase the diversity and ambition driving India’s whisky renaissance.
You can read all of our Indian whisky articles, for recommendations, histories, and more, here.
Final Thoughts: Why Royal Ranthambore Matters
Royal Ranthambore represents how far Indian whisky has come. Once seen as a domestic category, Indian distillers like Radico Khaitan are now producing whiskies that compete on the world stage. The blend’s royal inspiration, careful craftsmanship, and international awards reflect that ambition. It’s helping shift perceptions of Indian spirits from affordable to aspirational.
For new whisky drinkers, it’s an inviting introduction to India’s premium scene. For seasoned enthusiasts, it’s proof that Indian whisky can stand proudly beside its Scottish and Japanese peers.
Have you tried Royal Ranthambore? What did you make of it? Let us know in the comments below.
Read the full article at A Beginner’s Guide To Royal Ranthamnore Indian Whisky
