Oaksmith 

Oaksmith is Beam Suntory's premium Indian whisky brand launched in 2019. Created by Master Blender Shinji Fukuyo, it features a unique blend of imported Scotch malts, American Bourbon, and Indian grain spirits. Aged in American Oak barrels, it is designed to offer a smooth, rich, and balanced profile suited for the Indian consumer, bridging Japanese craftsmanship with global whisky traditions. It competes in the premium segment of the Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) category.

The story of Oaksmith is one of fusion – bridging East and West, craftsmanship and accessibility. Beam Suntory identified a desire in the Indian market for a high-quality, smooth whisky that offered an international experience at a competitive price point. They entrusted this task to Shinji Fukuyo, a globally respected blender from Suntory, renowned for his meticulous approach. Fukuyo leveraged Beam Suntory's global portfolio, selecting aged Scotch malts and Kentucky Bourbon, and expertly blended them with high-quality Indian grain spirit. The goal was to create a whisky that respects the heritage of its components while being perfectly attuned to Indian preferences – a testament to Japanese blending artistry meeting global spirits.

• Nose: Mildly aromatic with hints of fruit (like pear or apricot), subtle oak spice, a touch of honeyed sweetness, and potentially a faint floral note. Grain character is present but gentle.
• Palate: Smooth and rounded entry. Medium-bodied. Notes of sweet grain, honey, vanilla derived from the oak, gentle spice (cinnamon/nutmeg hints), and a touch of fruitiness. The blend aims for balance rather than sharp individual notes.

Neat: To appreciate the blend's subtleties. On the Rocks: A large ice cube chills the whisky without over-diluting it quickly. With a Splash of Water: Helps to open up the aromas and soften the palate. Highball: Mixed with soda water or ginger ale for a refreshing long drink. Simple Cocktails: Works well in classic whisky cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Whisky Sour where its smoothness is an advantage.

• Food: Mildly spiced Indian appetizers (like chicken tikka, paneer tikka), nuts (almonds, cashews), grilled meats, barbecue dishes, dark chocolate.

• Unique Blend: The first of its kind to combine Scotch Malts, American Bourbon, and Indian Grain Spirits.
• Master Blender Craftsmanship: Created by world-renowned Chief Blender Shinji Fukuyo of Suntory.
• Exceptional Smoothness: Carefully crafted for a remarkably smooth and easy drinking experience.
• International Quality, Indian Palate: Delivers global quality standards tailored for Indian taste preferences.
• Balanced Flavour: Offers a rich yet well-balanced profile that is approachable for various palates.

Oaksmith is a well-crafted premium Indian whisky that successfully delivers on its promise of smoothness and balance. Its unique blend composition, master blender pedigree, and accessible flavour profile make it a strong contender in its price segment. It's a versatile whisky suitable for sipping neat, on the rocks, or in simple mixed drinks, particularly appealing to those seeking an international quality standard tailored for the Indian palate without the peat intensity found in some Scotches.