Whisky Focus - Indri Diwali Collector's Edition 2026 Ruby Port Cask

Indian single malt whisky brand Indri has unveiled the Diwali Collector's Edition 2026 Ruby Port Cask, the latest release in its annual limited-edition collection celebrating the colour, culture and spirit of Diwali.

Produced at the Indri distillery in Haryana, in the foothills of the Himalayas, the fourth edition of the collection has been created by Master Blender Surrinder Kumar using small batches of indigenous six-row Indian barley. The whisky has been matured in hand-selected Ruby Port casks from Portugal, bringing an additional layer of rich fruit, sweetness and spice to Indri's distinctive Indian single malt character.

Distilled in traditional copper pot stills, the whisky matures in the subtropical climate of northern India. The significant seasonal variation, from hot summers to cooler winters, influences the maturation of the spirit and contributes to the distinctive character of Indri single malt whisky.

Bottled at a substantial 58.5% ABV cask strength, the Indri Diwali Collector's Edition 2026 Ruby Port Cask is said to combine ripe fruit and confectionery sweetness with richer roasted and spicy notes. Aromas of black cherry, wild berries and ripe plum lead into a silky palate of honeyed fruit and roasted nuts, with toffee, vanilla and fig adding further depth. The whisky finishes long and fruit-forward.

Surrinder Kumar, Master Blender for Indri, said: "The Diwali Collector's Edition pushes the boundaries of Indian single malt, while staying true to what makes it distinctly Indri, and has been consistently recognised in international awards. This year's Ruby Port Cask expression offers a new dimension, drawing on the depth and character of Portugal's wine casks, shaped by the unique climate here at Indri. The 2026 release brings together whisky and artistry in a collector's masterpiece celebrating heritage, craftsmanship and the spirit of modern India."

Diwali whisky inspired by India's royal heritage

As with previous editions, the 2026 Indri Diwali Collector's Edition places as much emphasis on its presentation as it does on the whisky itself.

The bottle and packaging feature artwork created by Indian designer Krsnaa Mehta, drawing inspiration from India's royal heritage and the traditional Indian miniature painting style. Jewel-like colours, intricate florals and contrasting details create a richly layered design intended to reflect the celebratory nature of Diwali.

Central to the artwork is the Marwari horse and its foal, representing nobility, heritage and continuity. The imagery draws on the storytelling traditions of miniature art, with intricate motifs and carefully considered details contributing to a presentation designed to complement the character of the whisky inside.

Indri Diwali Collector's Edition builds award-winning reputation

Since the first Indri Diwali Collector's Edition was released in 2023, the series has collected 29 awards internationally, establishing it as one of the Indian single malt brand's most distinctive annual releases.

The inaugural 2023 Peated PX Sherry Cask edition received Best in Show Double Gold at the Whiskies of the World Awards 2023. The 2025 Marsala Cask release subsequently won Best World Whisky at the Las Vegas Global Spirits Awards 2025 with a score of 99.1 points out of 100, as well as a Gold medal at The Design & Packaging Masters 2025 for its presentation.

The new 2026 Ruby Port Cask expression has already added to that record, receiving six awards to date, including Gold medals at the World Whisky Masters and the New York World Spirits Competition.

With its combination of Indian six-row barley, traditional copper pot still distillation, maturation in Portuguese Ruby Port casks and cask strength bottling, the 2026 edition continues Indri's exploration of how Indian single malt whisky can express both its own origins and influences from the wider world of whisky maturation.

The Indri Diwali Collector's Edition 2026 Ruby Port Cask limited-edition whisky is being released in very small quantities in the UK, with just 180 individually numbered bottles available. It carries a recommended retail price of £200 available from specialist online whisky shops such as The Whisky Exchange and Master of Malt
 

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