About this whisky

Royal Challenge has been part of Indian whisky culture since Shaw Wallace launched it in the early 1980s. It later passed to United Spirits, Diageo's Indian arm, and it was the first whisky in India's premium segment to sell a million cases in a year. Diageo India describes the blend as a fusion of Scotch whisky, Indian malts and grain spirits, put together for a style that is smooth with a little more richness than everyday whiskies. It is bottled at 42.8%.

In the glass it is golden amber, with vanilla, caramel and gentle oak, and it finishes soft and slightly sweet. That easy balance makes it a natural for long, unhurried evenings: over ice with water, or stretched into a highball with soda. Keep a bottle on hand for festive open houses and family get-togethers, where a familiar, trusted name is often exactly what guests reach for.

Key facts

• Launched in the early 1980s by Shaw Wallace; a United Spirits (Diageo India) brand since 2008
• Diageo India describes it as a blend of Scotch, Indian malts and grain spirits
• The first whisky in India's premium (mid-prestige) segment to reach one million cases a year
• Bottled at 42.8%

Tasting notes

Nose:

Vanilla and caramel with light oak

Palate:

Smooth and gently sweet, with toffee, vanilla and soft malt

Finish:

Mellow and lightly sweet, with a touch of oak

Serve

Over ice with chilled water, or as a highball: 60 ml over ice in a tall glass, topped with soda and a lemon wedge.

Food pairing

Good with chilli chicken or fish fingers from a Kolkata para cabin, and with salted peanuts or a classic grilled cheese sandwich.