Archive · 26 Jul 2026
Old Monk Shortage Hits Maharashtra
Old Monk, a popular dark rum in India, is missing from liquor shelves in Maharashtra.
People love it, especially during the monsoon.
The shortage is happening because more people want it during this time, and there are problems with making and delivering it.
Some think it's because of ethanol being used for other things, but others say it's because of supply chain issues.
Old Monk is special to many Indians, and its shortage is a big deal.
Old Monk rum is in short supply across Maharashtra.
Seasonal demand surges during monsoon and winter.
Supply chain issues, including bottling and distribution constraints, are contributing to the shortage.
Ethanol diversion is not the sole cause of the shortage.
Old Monk holds a significant share of the Indian rum market.
- Who
- Consumers and retailers in Maharashtra
- What
- Shortage of Old Monk rum
- When
- July 2026
- Where
- Maharashtra, India
- Why
- Seasonal demand surge and supply chain issues
Ethanol Diversion
Supply Chain Issues
Cause of Shortage
Ethanol Diversion
Ethanol diversion for blending programs is causing a shortage of molasses-based feedstock, leading to the Old Monk shortage.
Supply Chain Issues
The shortage is due to a combination of seasonal demand, bottling constraints, and distribution bottlenecks, not just ethanol diversion.
- Brand
- Old Monk
- Company
- Mohan Meakin
- Market Share
- 5-6 million cases annually
- Seasonal Demand
- 60-65% of sales between July and January
- Maharashtra Market
- ₹2,000 crore