New Delhi, May 25, 2026: Indian single malt whisky has achieved another major milestone on the global stage as Paul John Indian Single Malt Whisky secured top honours at the prestigious ADI International Spirits Competition 2026, one of the world’s most respected and technically rigorous spirits competitions.
Paul John Whisky won the coveted Best of Class – International Whisky award, reinforcing India’s growing reputation in the global premium whisky market. The competition featured entries from leading whisky-producing countries including Scotland, the United States, Japan, Taiwan, Canada and Australia.
The whiskies were evaluated through blind tastings conducted by master distillers, spirits experts and industry veterans, with judges unaware of the labels or country of origin during the assessment process. Industry observers said the recognition highlights the increasing global acceptance of Indian single malts as premium world-class spirits.
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Leading the award-winning portfolio was Paul John Classic Select Cask, which secured the Best of Class – International Whisky, Best of Category – Indian Single Malt Whisky, and a Double Gold Medal, the competition’s highest honour.
Other expressions from the Paul John portfolio also delivered a strong performance at the international event. Paul John Brilliance received a Double Gold Medal, while Peated Select Cask, Bold, and Nirvana Unpeated won Gold Medals for their craftsmanship and flavour profile. Paul John PX was awarded a Silver Medal.
Industry experts noted that the recognition comes at a time when Indian whiskies are gaining wider international appreciation for their distinctive maturation profile, tropical ageing conditions and unique flavour characteristics derived from India’s climate and six-row barley.
Commenting on the achievement, Paul P. John said the awards reflect the growing global recognition of Indian single malts and the company’s continued focus on authenticity, craftsmanship and consistency.
He stated that Indian single malts are now being recognised not as an emerging category, but as an important contributor to the global premium whisky industry.
Paul John Indian Single Malt Whisky currently has a presence in 44 countries and has earned more than 390 international awards, further strengthening India’s position in the global luxury spirits market.
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