History of Whisky: From Monastic Roots to Global Fame
2025-06-03
When it comes to premium Indian brandy, few names resonate as strongly as Morpheus Brandy. Crafted by the legendary Radico Khaitan, Morpheus has built a loyal following, not just for its smooth taste and aesthetic packaging, but also for its consistent quality and bold character. This blog dives deep into the story, variants, pricing, taste profile, and cultural relevance of Morpheus Brandy — delivering insights that go beyond the label.
Morpheus Brandy was introduced in 1999 by Radico Khaitan, a name synonymous with top-shelf Indian spirits. The brand was born at a time when Indian consumers were beginning to look beyond traditional whisky and explore richer, smoother options in the brown spirits category.
Radico’s intent was clear: offer a premium blend that could compete with imported labels while maintaining Indian authenticity. Named after the Greek god of dreams, Morpheus quickly became a favorite across metros and tier-2 cities alike — symbolizing class, comfort, and celebration.
In a competitive market flooded with local and international brands, Morpheus Brandy has carved a niche. Here’s what sets it apart:
Morpheus Brandy is matured in oak casks, which is a defining characteristic. The aging process lends it a smooth, layered flavor that’s both rich and mellow. Unlike many budget brandies that rely on artificial flavoring, Morpheus draws its character from slow aging and quality distillation.
Crafted with high-quality grain spirits and selected botanicals, Morpheus Brandy offers a bouquet of warm spices, vanilla, caramel, and dried fruits. It’s as delightful neat as it is in a classic brandy cocktail.
The unique bottle design, with its flowing curves and deep brown tones, speaks volumes of the brand’s attention to detail. It doesn’t just taste premium — it looks premium on your home bar.
To cater to evolving preferences, Radico has expanded the Morpheus line to include multiple premium variants. Each offers a distinct experience while staying true to the brand’s heritage.
The original and most widely known, this XO (Extra Old) blend is the heart of the brand. Aged over six years, it’s known for its velvety texture and deep flavors. Perfect for sipping or gifting.
A more intense, complex variant for connoisseurs. With an even longer aging process and deeper oak integration, Morpheus Blue is bold, smoky, and layered with rich caramel and dried fig notes.
From time to time, Radico releases special edition bottles, often matured longer and with limited availability. These cater to collectors and those looking for an exclusive experience.
Morpheus Brandy remains affordable without compromising on quality — a rare balance in today’s premium spirits market. Prices may vary across states due to local taxes, but here’s a general idea based on recent listings:
| Variant | Volume | Approx. Price (INR) |
| Morpheus XO | 750 ml | ₹990 – ₹1386 |
| Morpheus XO | 375 ml | ₹500 – ₹693 |
| Morpheus XO | 180 ml | ₹250 – ₹339 |
| Morpheus XO Pet | 60 ml | ₹107 – ₹169 |
| Morpheus Blue XO | 750 ml | ₹1325 – ₹1920 |
| Morpheus Blue XO | 375 ml | ₹700 – ₹980 |
| Morpheus Blue XO | 180 ml | ₹350 – ₹680 |
Prices differ across Karnataka, Delhi, Odisha, Kerala, West Bengal, Rajasthan, and other states. For exact pricing, always check with local retailers.
Morpheus Brandy is known for its well-rounded flavor profile. Here’s what your palate can expect:
Whether you're sipping it neat, on the rocks, or blending it in a cocktail, Morpheus Brandy delivers a satisfying experience every time.
The success of Morpheus Brandy in India isn't just a fluke — it’s a case study in effective branding, quality control, and understanding the Indian palate. As of 2023, it holds a market share of over 20% in the premium brandy category.
Its consistent taste, attractive pricing, and wide availability have made it a favorite among both seasoned drinkers and occasional celebrants. It also enjoys strong visibility at bars, restaurants, and retail outlets, giving it an edge over boutique or lesser-known competitors.
Morpheus Brandy is distilled using traditional column stills and matured in oak barrels under controlled climatic conditions. Radico Khaitan has invested heavily in sustainable practices, aiming to reduce their carbon footprint by 30% by 2025. This includes:
Such efforts not only enhance the brand's reputation but also resonate with today's conscious consumers.
Beyond the bottle, Morpheus Brandy has become something of a cultural icon. In India, it’s often the go-to brand for winter nights, festival celebrations, and intimate gatherings. It enjoys immense popularity in South India, especially Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Kerala — where brandy traditionally has a stronger cultural footprint than whisky.
Its presence at weddings, holiday feasts, and even casual get-togethers is a testament to how deeply embedded it is in everyday life.
Wondering how best to enjoy Morpheus Brandy? Here are a few ways:
Morpheus Brandy has captured attention across a wide range of age groups and lifestyle segments in India. Its appeal isn’t limited to brandy connoisseurs — it’s become a preferred choice among new-age drinkers, home bar enthusiasts, and even cocktail experimenters.
Urban millennials and Gen Z professionals are increasingly adding Morpheus Brandy to their home bars — not just for winter sipping, but for creating elevated cocktails at house parties. The sleek packaging and smooth profile make it a proud display bottle.
Older consumers who’ve long appreciated classic brandies find in Morpheus a premium upgrade. The oak-aged notes, warm spice, and balanced finish offer a nostalgic yet refined drinking experience.
With the rise of home bartending culture, many drinkers use Morpheus Brandy as a base spirit for homemade drinks like brandy sours, mulled punches, or festive infusions with spices and fruits. It’s versatile, affordable, and rich enough to shine through mixers.
Morpheus has quietly become a go-to choice for Diwali gatherings, wedding celebrations, and gifting during festivals. Its premium look and consistent taste make it a safe yet sophisticated choice for group settings.
Q1. Who makes Morpheus Brandy?
Radico Khaitan, one of India’s oldest liquor manufacturers.
Q2. What is the alcohol content in Morpheus Brandy?
Typically around 42.8% ABV.
Q3. Is Morpheus Brandy good for beginners?
Absolutely. Its smooth taste and gentle finish make it ideal for new brandy drinkers.
Q4. Can you use Morpheus Brandy in cocktails?
Yes. It’s great in traditional cocktails and also pairs well with Indian-style mixers.
Q5. Where is Morpheus Brandy available?
Widely available across India and exported to over 50 countries globally.
Morpheus Brandy isn’t just a drink — it’s an experience. With its rich heritage, impeccable taste, and accessible price point, it has become a staple for brandy lovers across India. Whether you're a seasoned connoisseur or exploring brown spirits for the first time, Morpheus offers something unique: a perfect blend of tradition, quality, and sophistication.
As it continues to evolve and expand its presence globally, Morpheus Brandy is poised to become not just India’s favorite but a respected name on the world stage.
Cheers to a spirit that dreams are made of. Cheers to Morpheus.