Bengaluru-based John Distilleries Limited (JDL) is now considering a new 30-acre plant in Karnataka with an investment of about Rs 600 crore. The company also targets nearly 150 cases of Single Malt and about 2.3 crore cases of all other brands combined by the end of FY25.
 
In an interview to Business Standard, Paul P John, chairman, John Distilleries Limited, said, “The Karnataka plant is planned as a greenfield project with an investment of about Rs 500-600 crore. However, we are open to discussions with other states and may consider relocating if they offer more favourable incentives. Within the next 3-4 years, we need to set up another plant with a capacity of at least 12,000 litres per day.”

JDL is set to launch the highly sought-after Weller Bourbon Whiskey variants—Special Reserve and 12-Year—in November, priced at approximately Rs 4,500 and Rs 8,500, respectively. This release will be in partnership with Sazerac. The domestic market already features Fireball, Buffalo Trace Bourbon, Benchmark Bourbon, and Sazerac Rye.
 
John also emphasised the company’s plans to launch two new vodka variants: one in the lower price category, similar to the Original Choice portfolio, expected within the next six months, and another targeting the high-end segment, anticipated by next year. JDL will soon be adding another gin to its Roulette portfolio.

Given the alcobev major’s extensive domestic and international presence, JDL anticipates growth in the domestic liquor market. "Over the past 7-8 years, the Indian market has evolved from 30 per cent domestic sales and 70 per cent international to 50 per cent domestic. Currently, international sales comprise 30-35 per cent, with the remainder from domestic sources. The domestic market is steadily inching up," John added.