Kadamba, an innovative player in the whisky landscape, has recently claimed the prestigious Double Gold medal at the 2025 John Barleycorn Awards in the United States. Notably, it is celebrated as the world’s first Champagne-barrel-finished single malt. Scoring an impressive 93 points in the blind tasting competition, Kadamba has firmly established itself among the elite spirits of the year, reinforcing its status as a top-tier international single malt.
The accolades for Kadamba resonate deeply within the Indian whisky community, as Cheers Group—the Rs1,000-crore premium spirits company behind this incredible creation—celebrates this recognition as a milestone in Indian whisky craftsmanship. Ashwin Balivada, CEO of Cheers Group and a distinguished Cambridge University alumnus, expressed his pride stating, “The recognition is a testament to our commitment to creating exceptional Indian single malts that delight connoisseurs worldwide.” His insights reflect a thoughtful approach to blending tradition with modern innovation in spirit production.
What sets Kadamba apart, as lauded by the jury, is its inviting tasting profile. Described as “a silky and refined whisky with a darkened caramel character and a buttery vanilla backbone,” it offers an array of sophisticated flavors. Judges noted enticing hints of brioche, brown butter, and a lightly fudged finish, all contributing to its complexity. This level of discernment is what makes the Double Gold distinction from the Barleycorn Awards—a highly coveted honor—more than just an accolade; it’s a mark of excellence achieved through exhaustive blind assessments by industry veterans.
In the words of Dr. Mohan Krishna Balivada, founder of Cheers Group and the world’s first doctorate holder in alco-bev marketing, this win elevates Kadamba’s standing in the competitive global whisky landscape. He stated, “The Barleycorn Awards have long been a benchmark of excellence. Kadamba’s performance reinforces its standing as a standout player internationally,” intertwining tradition with expertise and innovation.
The production process of Kadamba is integral to its unique identity. Located near the historic Kadamba region, which draws associations with Goa’s legendary 300-year Kadamba dynasty, Imperial Distillers masterfully crafts this single malt. Cadamba undergoes a maturation period of four years in charred American oak barrels, followed by a secondary finishing in Champagne barrels. This meticulous process is key to imparting its signature amber color, delicate fragrance, and intricate flavor profile, marking a pioneering step in whisky craftsmanship.
The essence of Kadamba can be traced back to its unwavering emphasis on premium ingredients and traditional distillation techniques. The Double Gold recognition serves not just as a trophy but as an affirmation of Cheers Group’s relentless pursuit of quality. “We are thrilled and humbled,” said Ashwin Balivada. “This honour acknowledges the passion and precision our team pours into crafting a truly world-class single malt,” encapsulating the spirit of dedication behind this impressive brand.