Guwahati: Edinburgh-based Rutland Square Spirits has unveiled its first Chai-Spiced Rum, continuing its exploration of flavours that link Scottish distilling tradition with Indian chai culture.
The launch marks a natural evolution for the brand, which first gained attention for its Chai Spiced-Gin and is now building a broader, flavour-led spirits portfolio aimed at international markets.
Produced in small batches and bottled at 41% ABV, the rum begins with Caribbean molasses and is aged in ex-sherry casks, giving it a ruby-toned depth. It is then infused with White Oolong tea from Assam â one of the worldâs most celebrated tea regions â resulting in a layered, gently spiced sipping spirit.
The story behind the brand is also rooted in Assam. Rutland Square Spirits -founded by Nishant Sharma, whose grandparents are from Dibrugarh district. Sharma has spoken of his desire to revive the legacy of his great-grandfather, Tej Ram, an Indian spirits entrepreneur who distilled gin and blended whisky in Dibrugarh in the 1940s â a city globally known for its tea heritage.
The rum was soft-launched last month in duty-free outlets across India and Dubai, where initial stocks sold out. The company is now expanding distribution through international partners and global online channels.
Founded in Edinburgh, Rutland Square Spirits positions itself at the meeting point of two traditions, describing its ethos as âScottish spirit, Indian soulâ.
Speaking about the launch, Nishant Sharma said the new release reflects the brandâs core identity.
âScottish distilling, craftsmanship and Indian soul have always been at the heart of Rutland Square Spirits,â he said. âChai isnât a trend for us â itâs part of who we are. Launching a rum allows us to explore that identity in a new category while staying true to our roots.â
The Chai-Spiced Rum forms part of the companyâs wider international expansion, as Rutland Square Spirits looks to strengthen its presence in the UK, travel retail and key global markets.
