Indian Malt Whisky Association launches mark of authenticity
A new certification from the Indian Malt Whisky Association (IMWA) will identify single malts that meet the requisite standards with a secure hologram.
The New Delhi-based IMWA has described the initiative as ‘a formal, industry-led framework to define and certify genuine Indian single malts amid growing global recognition and increasing domestic demand.’
In order to bear the IMWA Certification Trademark hologram, a whisky must be made with 100% malted barley, at a single distillery, using copper pot stills, and aged for a minimum of three years in oak casks not larger than 700 litres.
The IMWA further specifies that all stages of production, including bottling, must take place in India and that no molasses, neutral spirits, or ‘external flavouring agents’ are permitted.
It describes the set of standards as ‘aligned with globally recognised benchmarks while accounting for India’s distinct terroir and climatic conditions.’
Rajesh Chopra, director general of the IMWA, commented: “As the Indian single malt category scales both domestically and globally, the need for a credible, industry-owned validation mechanism becomes critical.
“The certification mark is not just about compliance but about establishing a shared baseline of authenticity and process integrity. It aims to bring clarity in a fragmented market, reinforce consumer trust, and ensure that the category’s growth is built on verifiable standards rather than perception alone.”
The IMWA was established in 2024 as a non-profit industry body representing Indian malt whisky producers. Rules for the organisation’s new certification closely resemble the legal definition of single malt Scotch whisky as established by the Scotch Whisky Association in 2009.
Exports of Indian spirits were valued at US$375 million in 2024, demonstrating double-digit growth since 2022.
India is currently the fastest-growing major drinks market globally, with domestic sales reaching 440 million nine-litre cases in 2025.
The nation’s thirst for whisky showed no sign of abating in 2025, although the best-sellers by far continue to be blended whiskies, including those made with neutral spirts and Indian-made foreign liquor – known as IMFL.
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