If you are diving into India’s booming RC whisky scene, Whisky—short for Royal Challenge—wears the badge of tradition without draining your wallet. Made by United Spirits, part of the Diageo family, the spirit has sat comfortably on Indian dining tables since the early 1980s.
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History of RC Whisky
Whisky hit the market in the early 1980s when drinkers searched for a smooth, pocket-friendly dram. The blend won over consumers fast because it paired easy-drinking character with a sticker price that felt fair. Today the label sports a handful of expressions, each dressed in its own distinct set of flavors.
Tasting Notes of RC
Classic Premium: This mixer melds Indi grain spirits with a splash of imported Scots malt, serving gentle notes of oak and caramel on an easy finish.
Classic Premium
Classic Premium blends smooth Indian grain spirit with gentle Scottish malt whisky for easy sipping, leaving soft notes of oak and caramel on the tongue.
Premium Reserve
Premium Reserve spends at least twelve years in wood, picking up dried-fruit sweetness and warming spice, so it begs to be enjoyed neat.
Rare Whisky
Rare Whisky is a limited-release blend aged over eighteen years; its layered profile reveals dark chocolate, fruit, and polished oak with every slow swirl.
Different Options of RC Whisky
| Variant | ABV | Volume Options |
|---|---|---|
| Classic Premium | 42.8% | 180 ml, 375 ml, 750 ml, 1000 ml |
| Premium Reserve | 42.8% | 180 ml, 375 ml, 750 ml, 1000 ml |
| Rare Whisky | 42.8% | 180 375 ml, 750 ml, 1000 ml |
RC Price in India
| State/City | 375ml Price (INR) | 375 ml Price (INR) | 1L Price (INR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi | ₹250 | ₹460 | ₹700 |
| Mumbai | ₹450 | ₹780 | ₹1090 |
| Kolkata | ₹380 | ₹750 | ₹950 |
| Bengaluru | ₹620 | ₹1060 | ₹1500 |
| Hyderabad | ₹710 | ₹1220 | ₹1500 |
| Kerala | ₹580 | ₹1100 | ₹1500 |
| Punjab | ₹360 | ₹720 | ₹950 |
| Rajasthan | ₹400 | ₹780 | ₹1000 |
| Goa | ₹550 | ₹950 | ₹1200 |
RC Whisky Price by Country
| Country | Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| India | ₹250–₹1500 | Varies by state and volume |
| United States | $22.99 | Available in select states |
| United Kingdom | £20–£30 | Imported via UK-India trade agreement |
| Middle East | Varies | Available in select countries |
Ways to Use RC Whisky in Cocktails
- Classic Whisky Sour: Shake whisky, fresh lemon juice, and a spoonful of sugar syrup over ice.
- Whiskey Ginger: Pour whiskey into ginger ale and squeeze in a wedge of lime for extra zest.
- Old Fashioned: Dissolve a sugar cube with bitters, stir in whisky, and float a twist of orange peel.
- Whisky Cola: Pour whisky over ice, top with cola, and stir for an easy crowd-pleaser.
FAQs
Q1: Where can I buy whisky in India?
A: Look for whisky at state-run liquor shops, though stocks can change from one state to another.
Q2: Is RC Whisky available internationally?
A: Yes, you can find Whisky in a few overseas markets, such as the US and the UK, mostly through online stores.
Q3: What is the shelf life of RC Whisky?
A: Factory-sealed bottles of RC Whisky keep for years if kept cool and dark; once opened, enjoy it within two to three years for the best taste.