Have you ever wondered just what the best selling whisky in the world is? You could be forgiven for thinking, Jack Daniels or Johnnie Walker. Though these brands are undoubtedly iconic and both feature in the Top 10 - they are in fact pipped by not one but 4 brands that you might think are rather obscure.
Whisky is one of the most popular premium spirits in the world. Though you might not know just how many guises whisky or indeed whiskey takes around the world.
Scotch whisky is of course the pre-eminent type of world whisky with a rich history and a worldwide reputation for quality and excellence. Though world whiskies have certainly taken their place in the popularity rankings. From Bourbon in the US, to the elusive Japanese whisky, to the stalwart that is Irish whiskey and some exciting newcomers from Scandinavia, New Zealand and even Asia.
Whisky can also be made from a variety of different base ingredients. While it is predominantly malted barley in Scotch Whisky production, whisky can also be made from corn, wheat, rye, un-malted barley and in fact many other grains. In other countries whisky is a slightly looser distinction with some producing their spirit from fermented molasses and blending with grain spirits.
What might be most surprising is where the best-selling whisky in the world is actually produced, not typically known for its whisky production, more so known for its lavish temples, incredible food and bulging population.
Here we list the top 10 best-selling whiskies in the world.
McDowell's No.1
Country of Origin: INDIA
Owners: Diageo/United Spirits
Volume: 31.4m
Royal Stag
Country of Origin: INDIA
Owners: Pernod Ricard
Volume: 27.9m
Officer's Choice
Country of Origin: INDIA
Owners: Allied Blenders & Distillers
Volume: 23.4m
Imperial Blue
Country of Origin: INDIA
Owners: Pernod Ricard
Volume: 22.8m
Johnnie Walker
Country of Origin: SCOTLAND
Owners: Diageo
Volume: 22.0m
Jack Daniel's
Country of Origin: USA
Owners: Brown-Forman
Volume: 14.3m
Jim Beam
Country of Origin: USA
Owners: Suntory Global Spirits
Volume: 10.4m
Jameson
Country of Origin: IRELAND
Owners: Pernod Ricard
Volume: 10.2m
Blenders Pride
Country of Origin: INDIA
Owners: Pernod Ricard
Volume: 9.6m
8 PM
Country of Origin: INDIA
Owners: Radico Khaitan
Volume: 8.9m
Did your favourite whisky make this top 10 best selling list?
There are some key insights to learn from this list, with India dominating the top 10 with 6 of the entries, it is clear where a vast quantity of whisky is being consumed in the world. The volumes of sales in the region are eye-watering, while it is the drink of choice for many, given its low cost and prestige. Though countries where seasoned whisky drinkers reside, that typically have a larger population of people that are globally recognised as middle-class and above, tend to have less volume of whisky consumed but often much higher in terms of value.
The top countries in terms of value of whisky imported or consumed are some of the more familiar names you might expect, in the US, the UK, France, Germany and Singapore.
Whisky is a drink that continues to fascinate drinkers the world over. The romance, the quality and the prestige are all key elements that keep the golden liquid so popular. With new markets coming online where economies are growing, the future of world whisky looks a bright one.
You can start your own whisky brand by working with the team here at Tailored Spirits Co. to create your perfect dram and design a memorable brand. Contact the team via email at info@tailoredspirits.co.uk
Article by
Adam brings a unique blend of whisky expertise and marketing acumen to Tailored Spirits Co. His enthusiasm for whisky and engaging storytelling skills help create compelling campaigns, forging strong connections with clients and enhancing their bespoke whisky experiences.
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