New
Delhi, India | 10 February 2026 : India’s presence at the World Drinks Awards
2026 was marked by a notable achievement as Singhasan, from homegrown alco-bev
company Modi Illva, received three top distinctions at the globally recognised
competition.
The
World Drink Awards, headquartered in the UK, are regarded as one of the most
rigorous international platforms for spirits evaluation, with entries assessed
through blind tastings by an independent panel of distillers, industry
specialists, and spirits experts. The awards span multiple global styles and
origins, making recognition highly competitive, particularly in fast-evolving
categories such as Indian blended spirits.
The
triple win places Singhasan at the forefront of its category during a period
when Indian spirits are drawing increasing global attention for quality,
consistency, and innovation. The results also reflect a broader shift in the
international perception of Indian spirits, which are now being judged on par
with long-established spirits-producing regions.
Abhishek
Modi, Managing Director, Modi Illva, said, “This triple-win
at the World Drinks Awards is not just a milestone for Singhasan; it is a
definitive statement on the evolution of Modi Illva. We have always positioned
ourselves as disruptors, choosing to challenge the status quo by investing in
craftsmanship over convention. For too long, the premium segment was defined by
international labels. Today, by winning
the ‘Best Indian Blended’ title on a global stage, we have proven that a
homegrown brand can lead the conversation on quality, taste, and aspiration.
This recognition reinforces our commitment to building a premium spirits
ecosystem in India that is rooted in local excellence but benchmarked against
the world’s finest.”
The
awards come at a time when the sector is transforming, with premiumisation,
improved production techniques, and evolving consumer preferences reshaping the
market. Indian distillers are increasingly focusing on refining blends,
sourcing quality malts and grains domestically, and aligning with international
benchmarks of craftsmanship.
Industry
observers note that wins at platforms such as the World Drink Awards contribute
to stronger global visibility for Indian producers, opening conversations
around provenance, technical capability, and the diversity of spirit styles
emerging from the region. Such recognition also underscores the role of
structured tasting competitions in influencing trade confidence and
international distribution opportunities.
As
the Indian spirits category continues to expand its footprint globally,
achievements at internationally respected competitions such as the World Drink
Awards are expected to play a key role in shaping how Indian blends are
evaluated by critics, connoisseurs, and the trade worldwide.
Modi
Illva, a joint venture between the Umesh Modi Group and Italy-based Illva
Saronno, has been active in India’s premium spirits segment for over a decade.
The company’s participation and performance at global competitions aligns with
a wider trend of Indian alco-bev firms seeking validation through independent
international platforms rather than relying solely on domestic market
leadership.
