• The accolade marks ABD Maestro’s first anniversary; having established a portfolio of ten brands spanning distinct category and expressions.
  • ARTHAUS Blended Malt Scotch wins ‘Campaign Innovator of the Year’

Mumbai : ABD Maestro Pvt. Ltd., the super-premium and luxury spirits subsidiary of Allied Blenders & Distillers (ABD), has been named ‘Distiller of the Year’ at the Icons of Whisky India Awards 2026. The recognition arrives as the company marks its first anniversary, having established a portfolio of ten brands across distinct categories and expressions. Reflecting both the aspiration behind the venture and the growing appetite among Indian consumers for premium, globally benchmarked spirits.

The 15th edition of the Icons of Whisky Awards, held in Gurugram, celebrated excellence across the Indian whisky industry. Widely regarded as one of the most respected global accolades for innovation, craftsmanship, and leadership in alcobev production, the awards serve as an international benchmark for quality and vision. Each regional edition draws competition from across the world, making every win a truly global statement. For ABD Maestro, this is a landmark victory, standing as the only Indian company to receive this honour alongside 6 other international players on a global stage hosted on home soil. The ‘Distiller of the Year’ title is both a powerful affirmation of the work undertaken in its founding year and a testament to India’s growing stature on the global whisky map.

Adding to the honours, ARTHAUS Blended Malt Scotch Whisky was recognised as “Campaign Innovator of the Year”, an acknowledgement of the brand’s approach to engaging India’s premium Scotch consumer and its positioning within one of the category’s most competitive segments.

Speaking on the recognition, Bikram Basu, Managing Director, ABD Maestro, said, “India’s super premium whisky landscape is evolving fast with consumers showing a clear preference for globally benchmarked expressions. ABD Maestro, just 1 year old, being named ‘Distiller of the Year’ at Icons of Whisky and the only Indian company to be honoured in this category alongside international players is a defining milestone. It reflects the strength of our portfolio, commitment to craftsmanship, innovation, and quality that has underpinned our thinking”.

The wins at the Icons of Whisky India Awards 2026 marks an important step for ABD Maestro’s, affirming its role in shaping India’s super-premium and luxury spirit’s landscape. With a sharp focus on innovation, global-quality benchmarks, and curated brand experiences, ABD Maestro continues to strengthen its position as a key player driving India’s emergence on the global whisky map.