Balivada Malt de Goa Crowned “Single Malt Whisky of The Year” at USA Competition
Celebrating the Spirits and Producers Setting the Standard for Quality, Value, and Packaging in the U.S. Market.
The 2025 USA Spirits Ratings results are now live, honoring spirits that excel in quality, value, and packaging. This year’s competition drew an impressive range of entries, with the USA, Mexico, India, and Canada leading in participation.
Each spirit is assessed using a 100-point scoring system designed to reflect real-world buying decisions. By weighing quality, value for money, and packaging appeal, the competition identifies spirits with both exceptional craftsmanship and strong commercial potential—giving producers a direct pathway to success in the competitive U.S. retail market.
Finished in unique “500-Year-Old Heritage Feni” barrels, a ‘First in World’ for single malt whisky, Balivada Malt de Goa Indian Single Malt Whisky has received a Gold Medal and 93 points at the USA Spirits Ratings 2025, also being named the “Single Malt Whisky of the Year” and “Best Spirit by Package”, according to the world’s best Spirits competition. Balivada, is produced by Imperial Distillers and Vintners Pvt Ltd of Cheers Group, and is known for its rich, complex flavor profile and smooth, velvety texture.
Flavor Profile: Rich aroma of caramel, vanilla, and oak, with hints of cashew fruits and spice. Silky-smooth on the palate with flavors of toffee, dark chocolate, and a touch of smoke. Finish: Lingering finish with warming spice and a hint of cashew feni.
“We are thrilled that Balivada Single-Malt Whisky has soared to new heights, clinching the 2025 USA Spirits Awards. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to luxury, innovation, and sustainability,” said Ashwin Balivada, CEO of Cheers Group, a Cambridge University alumnus.
Balivada Single-Malt whisky, produced by Cheers Group, recently has also been recognized with a “National Award” for its innovation in finishing expressions in unique Heritage Feni casks and packaging. The whisky is made with 100% malted barley and aged in former Sherry and American Bourbon casks, then finished in Feni barrels. Cheers Group is investing in expanding its distillery in Goa, building a state-of-the-art, carbon-neutral facility and visitors experience center to cater to the growing demand for their single-malt whiskies in USA, Europe, UAE, bagged over 250 international awards is valued at around ₹ 950 crores.
“As we raise a glass to celebrate this momentous achievement, we appreciate that Balivada Single-malt whisky is more than just a Single-malt —it’s a work of art, a symbol of sophistication, and a testament to the power of imagination — ‘World’s first and only Feni barrel finished’ Single-malt whisky” says Dr. Mohan Krishna Balivada founder of Cheers group and World’s first alco-bev marketing Doctorate.
Balivada Single-Malt undergoes a dual maturation process—first in Sherry and Bourbon casks, then in Heritage Feni barrels. This final step infuses the whisky with distinctive aromas and flavours, making it a world-first innovation in whisky craftsmanship. Beyond luxury spirits, Cheers Group has a strong social commitment.
