Nagomi whisky from Oaksmith has won Silver in the Blended Whisky category for Taste at the World Whiskies Awards 2026, a landmark achievement for India’s pioneering international blended whisky brand. Crafted under Shinji Fukuyo’s vision, Nagomi embodies harmony, balance and global craftsmanship, marking India’s growing presence on the world whisky stage.
In a defining moment for India’s spirits industry, Oaksmith’s Nagomi whisky has secured Silver in the Blended Whisky category for Taste at the prestigious World Whiskies Awards 2026. This recognition places Oaksmith firmly on the global map of whisky excellence, underscoring the brand’s ambition to craft blends that resonate not only with Indian consumers but also with connoisseurs worldwide. For a country where whisky has long been a cultural staple, this accolade represents both a validation of craftsmanship and a signal of India’s evolving role in the international spirits landscape.
Nagomi, the premium expression from Oaksmith, draws its inspiration from the Japanese philosophy of harmony and balance. The word “Nagomi” itself embodies the idea of peaceful coexistence, equilibrium and refinement—qualities that are mirrored in the whisky’s character. By blending aged Scotch malts, smooth American bourbons and Japanese blending artistry, Oaksmith has created a spirit that is layered, smooth and balanced. This approach reflects a deliberate attempt to bridge traditions across continents, offering Indian consumers a whisky that is both globally informed and locally relevant.
At the heart of Nagomi’s creation is Shinji Fukuyo, Chief Blender at Suntory, whose reputation precedes him in the world of whisky. Fukuyo, named Master Blender of the Year at the International Spirits Challenge 2024, is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to marry depth with precision. His involvement in Nagomi lends the whisky not only credibility but also a distinctive character that reflects his philosophy of blending. Fukuyo’s vision was to craft a whisky that could stand shoulder to shoulder with global icons, while also appealing to the evolving palate of Indian consumers who increasingly seek refinement and authenticity in their spirits.
The award at the World Whiskies Awards is more than a medal; it is a recognition of Oaksmith’s pioneering role in India’s whisky narrative. For decades, Indian whisky has been seen largely through the lens of mass-market blends, often dismissed by international critics. Yet, in recent years, brands like Oaksmith have sought to challenge that perception by introducing premium offerings that combine global expertise with local resonance. Nagomi’s Silver win is a testament to this shift, signalling that Indian whiskies are ready to claim their place on the world stage.
Rashi Singh, Category Manager for IMFL & American Whiskey at Suntory Global Spirits India, captured the significance of the moment when she remarked that the recognition reinforces the belief that Indian consumers are gravitating towards whiskies defined by balance, refinement and authenticity. Her statement reflects a broader trend in India’s spirits market, where consumers are increasingly discerning, willing to explore premium categories and eager to embrace brands that embody craftsmanship. Singh also emphasised that Nagomi’s success is not just about one brand but about Indian whiskies collectively earning global respect.
Nagomi’s sensory profile is a reflection of its philosophy. On the nose, it offers aromas of soft smoke, ripe fruit and gentle spice, inviting the drinker into a layered experience. On the palate, rounded oak notes mingle with subtle sweetness, creating a smooth, full-bodied texture. The finish is long, clean and harmonious, leaving behind a sense of balance that lingers. Its golden hue adds to the visual appeal, while the bottle design, inspired by Japanese aesthetics, reinforces the whisky’s understated yet timeless character. The design itself is a statement—strong, minimal and elegant—mirroring the values of Nagomi.
Currently available in Maharashtra, Goa and West Bengal, Nagomi is positioned as a premium offering in India’s whisky market. Its limited availability adds to its allure, making it a sought-after choice among enthusiasts who value exclusivity. For Oaksmith, the strategy is clear: to build a brand that is aspirational, rooted in global traditions yet tailored to Indian sensibilities. By introducing Nagomi, Oaksmith has not only expanded its portfolio but also elevated the conversation around what Indian whisky can be.
The World Whiskies Awards, known for their rigorous judging process, bring together experts from across the globe to evaluate whiskies on taste, balance and craftsmanship. Winning Silver in such a competitive category is no small feat, especially for a brand from India, where whisky has often been overshadowed by Scotch and Japanese labels in international competitions. Nagomi’s recognition demonstrates that Indian brands can compete at the highest level, provided they invest in quality, innovation and storytelling.
For Oaksmith, the journey to this milestone has been one of vision and perseverance. Launched as India’s first international blended whisky brand, Oaksmith sought to redefine the category by combining global expertise with local relevance. The collaboration with Suntory, one of Japan’s most respected names in whisky, was a strategic move that brought credibility and artistry to the brand. Nagomi, as the embodiment of this collaboration, represents the culmination of years of effort to craft a whisky that is both distinctive and universally appealing.
The award also has implications for India’s broader spirits industry. As Indian consumers become more exposed to global trends, their expectations from domestic brands are rising. They seek whiskies that can deliver not just strength but also nuance, balance and sophistication. Nagomi’s success shows that Indian brands are capable of meeting these expectations, provided they embrace innovation and invest in quality. It also signals to international markets that Indian whiskies are evolving, ready to be appreciated beyond their traditional boundaries.
Looking ahead, Oaksmith’s challenge will be to build on this momentum. Awards can open doors, but sustaining success requires consistency, innovation and engagement with consumers. Expanding Nagomi’s availability across India and potentially into international markets could be the next step. At the same time, maintaining the integrity of the blend and continuing to tell the story of Nagomi will be crucial. For consumers, the appeal of Nagomi lies not just in its taste but in its philosophy—the idea of harmony and balance that resonates deeply in a world often defined by contrasts.
In many ways, Nagomi’s Silver win is symbolic. It represents the coming of age of Indian whisky, the recognition of craftsmanship that transcends borders, and the celebration of a philosophy that values balance. For Oaksmith, it is a proud moment, but for India’s whisky industry, it is a milestone that could inspire others to aim higher. As the global spirits landscape becomes increasingly interconnected, Nagomi stands as proof that Indian brands can contribute meaningfully to the conversation, offering blends that are both rooted in tradition and open to innovation.
The story of Nagomi is ultimately one of vision, collaboration and perseverance. It is about a brand that dared to dream beyond its immediate market, a blender who brought global expertise to local relevance, and consumers who embraced the idea of refinement. The Silver medal at the World Whiskies Awards is a recognition of all these elements, a celebration of harmony in whisky-making and a promise of more to come. For Oaksmith, the journey continues, but the milestone achieved with Nagomi will remain a defining chapter in its narrative—a chapter that speaks of balance, authenticity and the pursuit of excellence.
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