Whiskey tastings are usually reserved for the early evening, often followed by a leisurely dinner where guests sip rather than truly explore the nuances of their drink. The usual rhythm is familiar: arrive by 9 PM, enjoy the pours, and let conversation flow late into the night.

But recently I had the rare privilege of attending something quite different: a whiskey lunch! The setting? The iconic Taj Palace, New Delhi. The occasion? A tasting of Sangam World Malt whiskey, an exceptional new entrant to the Indian market that has already made waves internationally.

Introduced by Radico Khaitan, Sangam is a concept that goes beyond traditional blended malts. Sangam brings together premium malts from Europe and the New World, seamlessly blended with Indian single malts from the renowned Rampur Distillery.

The name ‘Sangam’, derived from the Hindi word for ‘confluence’, perfectly captures the essence of this whiskey: a meeting of Eastern tradition and Western whiskey-making expertise.

The result is a beautifully complex whiskey that entices with aromas of tropical fruits like lychee and green apple, floral hints of rose and heather, and layers of citrus, caramel, cinnamon and nutmeg.

On the palate, it offers a creamy texture with balanced peaty undertones, complemented by notes of honey, oak, and a wine-like essence, leading to a long, harmonious finish.

Though launched in India only six months ago, Sangam has already earned international acclaim, marking a significant milestone for Radico Khaitan. It has clinched a gold medal at the John Barleycorn Awards and the Beverage Tasting Institute (BTI) Luxury Spirits Award 2023 in the United States, reinforcing its status as a world-class whiskey.

Sangam is more than a whiskey; it is an experience, one that celebrates craftsmanship, innovation and a blend of cultures. Priced between ₹4,000 and ₹7,500 (varying by state excise structures), it is available in 750-ml bottles (42.8% ABV) across select retailers and premium establishments in India.