In the ever-evolving landscape of Indian spirits, Camikara 3 Years Old Rum is a bold and beautiful revelation. Priced at ₹1800 in Goa, this small-batch spirit from Piccadily Distilleries is not just another rum—it’s India’s first 100% pure cane juice rum aged for three years, and it’s already turning heads.
Following the award-winning success of Camikara 12YO—India’s only gold medal-winning rum at the prestigious IWSC 2023 Awards—Piccadily now brings us a younger sibling that carries its own charm, depth, and a fresh take on what Indian rum can be.
A Pure Cane Revolution
Unlike the typical Indian rums made from molasses or grain-based ENA (extra neutral alcohol), Camikara 3YO is distilled purely from sugarcane juice—a technique more commonly seen in the Caribbean’s finest rums. This makes Camikara a rarity on the Indian shelves, and an exciting addition for rum aficionados and curious newcomers alike.
Bottled at 42.8% ABV, it’s both bold and elegant—meant to be sipped, explored, and celebrated. Its name, Camikara, translates to “liquid gold” in Sanskrit, and it truly lives up to that sentiment.
Tasting Notes: Complex, Yet Approachable
From the moment you open the bottle, Camikara 3YO greets you with sweet, grassy aromas that instantly signal its cane juice roots. On the nose, there’s a delightful mix of funk, vegetal greenness, and that subtle touch of wet leather—nuanced and intriguing. Let it breathe a little, and you’ll start to catch gentle hints of melon, honey, and vanilla, all layered over a warm sugarcane sweetness.
On the palate, the real magic unfolds. The American oak barrels lend a subtle charred oakiness and a wisp of smoke, beautifully balanced by the natural sweetness of the cane. It’s smooth, well-rounded, and impressively complex for a 3-year-old spirit. The finish is clean, slightly warm, and lingering—leaving behind a gentle echo of vanilla and fresh cane.
Whether you sip it neat, on the rocks, or mix it into a premium cocktail, Camikara 3YO doesn’t disappoint. It’s a rum for all seasons—and all palates.
A Cultural Comeback
What makes this rum even more special is its story. Inspired by Punjab’s forgotten tradition of distilling cane juice into a household brew called Laahan, Piccadily Distilleries set out to resurrect this indigenous practice with modern finesse. The result? A rum that not only tastes world-class but feels deeply rooted in Indian terroir and tradition.
As India’s premium spirits market grows—expected to rise annually by 5.55% (CAGR 2023–2028) per Statista—Camikara stands at the forefront of a movement redefining Indian rum. It’s not just riding the wave; it’s shaping it.
Final Verdict
Camikara 3YO is more than just a rum. It’s a statement. A bridge between Indian heritage and global-quality craft. At ₹1800 in Goa, it offers excellent value for a premium, homegrown spirit that can easily hold its own on the international stage.
Rating: 9/10
Perfect for: Neat sipping, rum-based cocktails, gifting, and anyone who’s ready to rethink what Indian rum can be.
Try it if you like: Rhum Agricole, premium aged spirits, or discovering India’s hidden gems in a glass.