Archive · 1 Nov 2025
India's Alcohol Market Sees Surge in Niche, Globally-Inspired Brands
Imagine a country where people usually drink one type of liquor.
Now, imagine that country's companies are starting to make many new kinds of drinks inspired by other countries, like Italy's sweet lemon liqueur or Mexico's agave spirit.
These drinks are special because they are made in small batches and often use local Indian ingredients or flavors.
People in India are excited to try them because they are well-traveled and like new experiences.
Some companies are even using old Indian plants to make new kinds of gin and beer.
This shows that India's drink market is becoming more diverse and exciting, offering unique tastes for everyone.
Indian liquor market is diversifying with homegrown brands creating niche beverages inspired by global traditions.
Brands are producing items like limoncello, vermouth, agave spirits, craft beer with Indian ingredients, spiced liqueurs, and artisanal gin.
Consumers are seeking experiences, authenticity, and variety, driving acceptance of these experimental drinks.
Companies are leveraging local ingredients and heritage, such as using indigenous agave plants for spirits and popped rice for beer.
These niche brands are achieving significant growth and expanding their presence both domestically and internationally.
- Who
- Indian alco-bev companies and consumers
- What
- An increasing trend of developing and consuming niche alcoholic beverages inspired by global traditions but often with an Indian twist.
- When
- Recent years, with several brands launching or expanding in the last two to three years.
- Where
- Primarily in India, with some brands also entering international markets.
- Why
- Growing consumer demand for unique experiences, authenticity, variety, and experimentation in alcoholic beverages.
- Mikiamo Limoncello
- Indian brand of artisanal limoncello, launched in May last year, expanded to Karnataka, Delhi, and Haryana in 2025.
- Maya Pistola
- Indian agave spirit brand launched in 2022, with over 40 accolades and presence in 8 Indian and 4 international markets.
- Davana Vermouth Indica
- India's first 100% homegrown vermouth, launched in Goa in late 2024, expanded to Bengaluru and Mumbai.
- Geist Brewing
- Indian craft beer brand known for Geist Pop Fiction, using popped rice (aralu); present in over 450 locations across four states.
- Radico Khaitan
- Launched Zaffran spiced liqueur with 21 herbs, including Kashmiri saffron, targeting global travel retail and markets.
- John Distilleries
- Offers Malhar Indian craft gin, launched in 2022, with double-digit growth and presence in urban centers and duty-free.
- IndoBevs (Bonga Bonga)
- Creates 'mystery liqueur' with 40 botanicals, designed for experiential drinking and reusable bottles.