Indian Malt Whisky Association Unveils Hologram Mark Of Authenticity

The Indian Malt Whisky Association (IMWA) is set to use secure holograms to authenticate single malts that meet its official standards.

The initiative has been said by the IMWA as ‘a formal, industry-led framework to define and certify genuine Indian single malts amid growing global recognition and increasing domestic demand.’

In order to bear the IMWA Certification Trademark hologram, a whisky must be made with 100% malted barley at a single distillery using copper pot stills.

The whisky must be aged for a minimum of three years in oak casks not larger than 700 litres. Every stage of production, including bottling, must take place within India. Additionally, the use of molasses, neutral spirits, or any external flavoring agents is strictly forbidden.

It describes the set of standards as ‘aligned with globally recognised benchmarks while accounting for India’s distinct terroir and climatic conditions.’

Established in 2024, the IMWA is a non-profit industry body that represents Indian malt whisky producers. Rules for the organisation’s new certification closely resemble the legal definition of single malt Scotch whisky as established by the Scotch Whisky Association in 2009. 

Driven by its status as the world's fastest-growing major drinks market, India saw domestic spirits sales hit 440 million nine-liter cases in 2025. This booming domestic momentum is mirrored internationally, with Indian spirits exports surging to US$375 million in 2024 after maintaining double-digit growth since 2022.

Kanpai!

88 Bamboo Editorial Team