Top Alcohol Brands to Try This Summer in India

As the sweltering heat of summer hits India, it's time to switch up your drink choices. While refreshing beverages like coconut water and lemonade are great for hydration, there are moments when you crave something a bit stronger to quench your thirst and lift your spirits. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway to Goa, hosting a rooftop party, or unwinding after a long day, the right alcoholic drink can make all the difference.

In recent years, India's alcohol scene has evolved, with a growing demand for lighter, fruitier options that are perfect for the summer heat. From craft beers and botanical gins to flavored rums and vodka-based cocktails, there’s no shortage of refreshing options. Here's a curated list of top alcohol brands to try this summer.

1. Chilled Beers: Perfect for Hot Days

Beer remains the go-to drink for summer in India. It’s light, refreshing, and offers that perfect fizzy relief. Whether you’re relaxing at the beach, grilling with friends, or just taking it easy, a chilled beer is a must-have. Summer beers, often infused with citrusy or fruity notes, offer a crisp, easy-to-drink experience.

Bira 91 Blonde Summer Lager: Smooth with a slight bitterness, ideal for spicy snacks and grilled food.

Simba Wit: A Belgian-style wheat beer with hints of orange and coriander, perfect for laid-back afternoons.

White Owl Spark: A citrusy, refreshing beer that feels like a burst of sunshine.

Kingfisher Ultra Max: Strong but smooth, this one’s perfect for those who like their beer with a little extra kick.

2. Gin: Botanical Brews for Summer

Gin has gained popularity in India for its crisp, refreshing nature. It’s low-calorie and pairs beautifully with tonic water, citrus, and herbs, making it a great summer option. With many Indian craft gins now on the market, gin-based cocktails have become staples at rooftop parties and weekend gatherings.

Greater Than Gin: India’s first craft gin, clean and simple, perfect with tonic and a lime wedge.

Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin: Made with Himalayan juniper, offering earthy notes that pair well with a classic gin and tonic.

Tanqueray Rangpur: A citrus-forward gin with Rangpur lime, perfect for lime lovers.

Stranger & Sons: A gin with strong spice notes, great when mixed with orange or pepper.

3. Vodka: Clean, Crisp, and Refreshing

Vodka is an ideal summer spirit due to its versatility and clean profile. It pairs effortlessly with fresh juices, soda, or coconut water to create refreshing cocktails perfect for the heat. Affordable, smooth, and crisp, vodka is a favorite for casual summer sipping.

Smoke Vodka: A premium Indian vodka, smooth and clean, great with soda or fruit juice.

Magic Moments Verve: A pocket-friendly vodka with a fun orange and lemongrass flavor.

Absolut Citron: A citrus vodka that pairs beautifully with lemonade or soda.

Belvedere Vodka: A luxury Polish vodka, best mixed with cranberry juice or coconut water.

4. Whisky with a Twist: Light and Smooth

Although whisky is often considered a winter drink, lighter whiskies can be surprisingly refreshing in summer when served chilled or in highballs. Indian whiskies, known for their subtle honey or citrus notes, work wonderfully with ice or soda, making them an unexpected but satisfying summer choice.

Paul John Nirvana: Smooth with a slight sweetness, best served on the rocks.

Amrut Fusion: A blend of Indian and Scottish barley, fruity with a smoky finish—perfect with chilled water or soda.

Jameson Irish Whiskey: Known for its smoothness, a great entry-level whisky for summer.

Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve: A soft, fruity whisky that’s perfect with cold water or in a highball.

5. Rum: Tropical and Fun

Rum, especially white rum and flavored variants, has made its mark as a summer favorite in India. With its light, tropical flavor, rum is the base for several classic summer cocktails, such as mojitos, daiquiris, and pina coladas. It’s the perfect drink for beachside lounging or a lively rooftop session.

Old Monk White Rum: Mild and smooth, great for mojitos or with lemonade.

Bacardi Carta Blanca: A top choice for cocktails, pairs well with lime, mint, and soda.

Maka Zai White Rum: An Indian-made rum with a light, slightly fruity taste, perfect for summer punches.

Malibu: A coconut-flavored rum that pairs well with pineapple juice for an easy tropical drink.

Final Thoughts: Sip Smart and Stay Cool

Summer is the perfect time to explore new flavors and refreshing drinks. From citrusy beers and botanical gins to light vodkas and tropical rums, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. These drinks, often featuring fruity and herbal notes, are designed to be light and easy to sip, keeping you refreshed in the heat.

Whether you’re hosting a party, enjoying a quiet evening, or just looking to unwind, there’s a perfect summer drink waiting for you. With the variety of Indian and international alcohol brands available online, your next favorite summer drink is just a click away.

Always remember to drink responsibly and stay hydrated this summer!