Some rums are just drinks, and then there are those that tell a story. IDAAYA, crafted in the heart of the Himalayas, belongs to the latter category. As someone who enjoys exploring distinctive spirits, I found IDAAYA to be one of those rare gems that truly stands out.
It’s a premium sipping rum made with Himalayan spring water, aged to perfection, and bottled without any added sugar. Right from the moment I poured my first glass, IDAAYA captured my attention with its richness and complexity. It’s a rum made for moments of reflection—ideal for those who appreciate quality over trends.
The Heart of IDAAYA
What makes IDAAYA special is its Himalayan connection. The rum uses Himalayan spring water and is aged at high altitudes, where the cool, crisp air plays a role in shaping its unique profile. The blend includes 12-year-old rum aged in bourbon barrels, which is then balanced with Indian rum through a Solera system in Sal wood casks.
This process creates a rum with natural depth and character. There’s no cloying sweetness, just an authentic richness that feels honest. It’s this attention to detail that elevates IDAAYA beyond the ordinary and makes it worth every sip.
A Rum That’s Turning Heads Globally
Since its launch, IDAAYA has been making waves, earning accolades at prestigious international competitions. Some of its recent awards include:
- Double Gold at the International SIP Awards 2024.
- Silver at the Asian Spirit Master 2024 for rums made in Asia.
- Bronze at the International Wine and Spirits Competition 2024.
- Gold at the Indian Wines & Spirits Awards 2024.
- Grand Gold at the Spiritz Achievers Award 2024.
- Gold for packaging at the International Spirits Challenge 2024.
For a rum that’s relatively new, these accolades are a clear proof to the impact it has made among both consumers and experts.
The Woman Behind the Rum: IDAAYA’s Visionary
Behind every great product is a passionate creator, and with IDAAYA, that creator is Karishma Manga Bedi. Karishma’s vision for IDAAYA was clear from the start: to craft a rum that’s more than just a drink, but an experience. Her dedication to authenticity, and the story of the Himalayas shines through in every bottle.
With a deep respect for tradition, a keen eye for detail, and a zeal to bring something new to the table, Karishma has managed to blend the best of both worlds. Her approach isn’t about trends—it’s about creating something genuine, something that invites you to pause and enjoy the moment. Her passion for spirits is clear, and through IDAAYA, she’s managed to share that vision with the world.
Why IDAAYA Stands Out
IDAAYA isn’t just about the awards; it’s about the experience it delivers. From its bold amber colour to its intricate layers of flavour, everything about this rum feels thoughtfully crafted.
The decision to create a rum without any added sugar is a standout choice. It means that every note you taste comes from the natural ingredients and ageing process, not artificial sweeteners. It’s smooth and balanced, with enough depth to keep you coming back for more.
And let’s not forget the bottle design. Recognized with a Gold Award, it’s sleek and elegant, making it a perfect addition to your home bar or a thoughtful gift for someone who enjoys premium spirits.
Savouring IDAAYA: A Flavour Journey
IDAAYA is a rum best enjoyed slowly, whether neat, on the rocks, or with a twist of burnt orange for a touch of brightness. Here’s a closer look at its tasting notes:
Appearance
Deep amber with an inviting richness and a lovely viscosity that hints at what’s to come.
Nose
The aroma greets you with jaggery and vanilla, followed by gentle allspice. With a little time, hints of toasted oak and ripe fruits like raisins and plums make an appearance.
Palate
The first sip delivers notes of caramel and dark chocolate, followed by the sweetness of jaggery and tropical fruits. As the flavours build, you’ll notice dried fruits, spices, and a touch of toasted vanilla and oak adding depth.
Finish
Long and smoky, the finish leaves behind hints of toasted vanilla, oak, and dry fruits, with just the right touch of complexity.
Final Thoughts
IDAAYA is the kind of rum that invites you to slow down and enjoy the moment. Whether you’re sipping it on a quiet evening or sharing it with friends, it delivers an experience that feels special.
From its Himalayan roots to its award-winning flavour profile, it’s a rum that doesn’t try too hard—it just gets it right. If you’re looking to add something exceptional to your collection, IDAAYA is worth exploring. Here’s to savouring something extraordinary—cheers!
