Imperial

Imperial Blue is a blended Indian whisky combining Indian grain spirits and imported Scotch malts. Owned by Pernod Ricard and launched in 1997, it targets the value segment of the Indian market. Key characteristics include its perceived smoothness, light profile, wide availability, and strong brand recognition in India, making it a go-to choice for everyday consumption and mixing.  

Seagram launched Imperial Blue in India in 1997 to compete in the rapidly growing mid-price whisky segment. After Pernod Ricard acquired Seagram's assets, they heavily invested in the brand. Its success was driven by consistent quality (for its price point), aggressive marketing ("Men will be Men"), and extensive distribution across India, making it a household name and one of the world's largest whisky brands by volume.  

• Nose: Light, hints of grain, subtle sweetness, possibly a faint touch of fruit or oak from the malt component.
• Palate: Smooth, light-bodied. Predominantly grain spirit character with a mild sweetness, notes of cereal, and a very subtle malty or woody undertone. Generally not complex.

Neat: To appreciate its straightforward character. On the Rocks: Chilled and slightly diluted. With Water: A splash of water can open it up slightly. With Mixers: Very popular with cola, lemon-lime soda (like Sprite/7UP), or soda water. Simple Cocktails: Can be used in basic highballs.

• Spicy snacks (pakoras, samosas)
• Peanuts or other bar nuts
• Tandoori items and kebabs

• Lightly spiced dishes
• Smoothness: Marketed and generally perceived as very smooth and easy to drink.
• Availability: Widely available across India.
• Mixability: Mixes well without overpowering the drink.

Imperial Blue is a highly successful Indian whisky that delivers on its promise of smoothness and affordability. While not complex, it's a reliable, widely available, and versatile option for casual drinking and mixing, particularly popular in the Indian market.