The second edition of the India Drinks Retail Awards (IDRA) successfully recognised some of the best alcohol retailers across India, highlighting excellence in a rapidly evolving retail landscape.
Held on March 16, 2026, at Le Méridien Gurgaon, the awards brought together leading retailers, industry experts, and brand partners from across the country.
Launched by Vikram Achanta and Radhakrishnan Nair—the team behind 30 Best Bars India—IDRA aims to recognise and rank the best alcohol retail stores in India.
Growing importance of alcohol retail
With nearly 80% of alcohol sales in India happening through retail (off-trade), stores play a crucial role in shaping consumer experience. Across the country, retailers are upgrading their formats—moving towards modern walk-in stores, better product displays, improved storage, and enhanced customer service.
IDRA 2026 honoured the top 95 retail outlets across 12 cities in states where private alcohol sales are permitted. Stores were ranked city-wise (Top 10 or Top 5 depending on market size), based on strict evaluation standards.
How the rankings were decided
The rankings were based on a detailed, multi-stage process. Industry nominations were followed by on-ground evaluations and anonymous mystery visits by an independent jury.
Each store was judged on 25 parameters, including product range, store layout, lighting, ambience, temperature control, merchandising, staff knowledge, hygiene, and overall customer experience.
Key winners and highlights
Several well-known retailers retained their top positions this year. Notable leaders included:
- World of Wines (Mumbai & Goa)
- Tonique (Pune & Bengaluru)
- Hedonne (Kolkata)
- The Whiskey Company (Guwahati)
- The Liquor Mart (Jaipur)
City leaders also included House of Spirits (Hyderabad) and The Liquor Fort (Gurgaon), while The Malt Room emerged as a new No. 1 entrant in Shillong.
Special awards
- Innovator of the Year: Prashant Shokhanda (The Liquor Warehouse, Gurgaon)
- Industry Icon: Vaz Enterprises (Goa), led by Wilson Vaz and family, for over 50 years of contribution
Industry perspective
Speaking on the awards, Vikram Achanta noted that while established retailers continue to perform strongly, new entrants are rapidly raising the bar across markets.
Radhakrishnan Nair added that despite India’s complex, state-wise alcohol regulations, retailers are increasingly investing in better store formats and customer experiences.
Industry leaders also shared their views:
- Vinay Golikeri (Bacardi India) highlighted that retail is key to premiumisation and consumer discovery.
- Anirudh Singhal emphasised the role of retail in shaping consumer relationships and responsible drinking.
- Rohit Guleria (United Breweries Limited) stressed collaboration between brands and retailers.
- Anchal Kaushal (Diageo India) underlined the importance of retail in delivering premium brand experiences.
- Conclusion
The India Drinks Retail Awards continues to play an important role in recognising retailers who are transforming alcohol retail in India. As competition increases and consumer expectations evolve, the sector is clearly moving towards more modern, experience-driven retail formats.
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