Godawan Artisanal Single Malt Whisky has earned top honours at the International Taste Institute’s Superior Taste Awards 2026, with three of its expressions receiving the highest recognition — Triple Gold (Three Stars). The awards are decided by a panel of renowned international chefs and sommeliers.
The winning expressions are:
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Godawan Single Malt Whisky 01 – Rich & Rounded: Triple Gold, scoring 92.8
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Godawan Single Malt Whisky 02 – Fruit & Spice: Triple Gold, scoring 90.1
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Godawan 173 – The Collector’s Edition: Triple Gold, scoring 91
This achievement strengthens Godawan’s growing reputation as one of India’s leading single malt brands on the global stage.
A standout among the winners is Godawan 173 – The Collector’s Edition, which has made history as the first Indian whisky finished in liqueur casks to receive a Triple Gold rating from the International Taste Institute.
The whisky is aged for over nine years in a mix of ex-bourbon American oak barrels, European Oloroso and PX Sherry casks, and finally finished in traditional Asha liqueur casks infused with 42 ingredients. Only 173 bottles were produced, symbolising the 173 Great Indian Bustards — a critically endangered bird species — highlighting the brand’s commitment to conservation.
Vikram Damodaran, Chief Innovation Officer at Diageo India, said the recognition reflects the growing appreciation for Indian single malts worldwide. Crafted in Rajasthan, Godawan draws character from the region’s unique climate and landscape. He added that the awards encourage the team to continue focusing on quality, authenticity, and purpose-driven craftsmanship.
In addition to the limited edition, Godawan’s core expressions — 01 Rich & Rounded and 02 Fruit & Spice — also received Triple Gold ratings, each scoring above 90 points. This consistent performance highlights the brand’s commitment to excellence.
Now in its 21st year, the International Taste Institute’s Superior Taste Awards are judged through blind tastings by over 250 internationally acclaimed chefs and sommeliers. A Three-Star rating is considered exceptional, placing Godawan among some of the finest whiskies in the world.
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