Oaksmith launches ‘Nagomi’ premium whisky  

INDIA – Oaksmith, India’s pioneering international blended whisky brand, has introduced its most premium expression to date—Oaksmith Nagomi—marking a significant expansion in its luxury spirits lineup. 

Crafted through a fusion of Japanese blending mastery and global whisky-making techniques, Oaksmith Nagomi is designed to cater to India’s evolving taste for refined, premium spirits.  

The expression harmoniously integrates aged Scotch malts, American Bourbons, and the Japanese philosophy of ‘Nagomi’, which translates to harmony and balance. 

According to Rishi Walli, Senior Director – Marketing & IMFL Brands at Suntory Global Spirits, the launch is a continuation of the brand’s mission to raise the standards of India’s whisky segment.  

“With Oaksmith Nagomi, we are not just introducing a new expression; we are reaffirming our commitment to elevate the Indian whiskey segment,” said Walli. 

He added that the inspiration behind Nagomi lies in the Japanese ethos of balance, making it a whisky suited for consumers who seek aspirational and globally influenced choices.  

“It also represents our dedication to blending global excellence, heritage, and authenticity, creating distinctive, high-quality whiskies that offer a premium experience with a truly international spirit,” he said. 

Oaksmith Nagomi offers a multi-sensory experience, featuring a rich golden hue and layered aromas of smoke, spice, and fruit. Its full-bodied profile is accentuated by woody undertones derived from select oak casks.  

The finish is described as smooth, lingering, and bright—reflecting the brand’s core promise of delivering harmony in every sip. 

The design of the bottle mirrors minimalist Japanese aesthetics, embodying simplicity and sophistication. This design direction appeals to India’s modern, authenticity-seeking whisky consumers.  

Oaksmith Nagomi has been initially launched in Goa and West Bengal, with broader rollout plans across Indian markets in the coming months. 

With the addition of Nagomi to its existing portfolio, Oaksmith International and Oaksmith Gold, the brand continues to bridge Japanese craftsmanship and international whisky excellence. 

The launch comes amid rising demand in India’s alcoholic beverages (alcobev) market. According to IWSR data, the country recorded a 2% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in alcobev volume between 2018 and 2023.  

In 2022-2023, growth accelerated to 5% year-over-year. Projections for 2023 to 2028 indicate a CAGR of 4%, driven by increasing interest in premium and value-priced spirits. 

IWSR credits this growth to local players offering high-quality, affordable spirits—even those evolving from informal markets—further boosting consumer choice. 

Sign up HERE to receive our email newsletters with the latest news and insights from Africa and around the world, and follow us on our WhatsApp channel for updates.