There is something undeniably magnetic about a brand that knows exactly who it is and Desi Daru Vodka wears its identity with pride. Founded by British born Indians Mohit Singh and his wife Aneet, the brand is a seamless fusion of heritage and modernity, blending Indian soul with British precision. What began as a passion project has quickly evolved into a global contender, now recognised as the highest rated vodka in the world. With two distinctive expressions, The Original and the Alphonso Mango, Desi Daru is not just about exceptional liquid, it is about storytelling, craftsmanship and purpose.

Distilled using the finest Alphonso mangoes from Ratnagiri and English winter wheat from Oxfordshire, every bottle is a celebration of dual identity. Yet beyond the flavour profile lies something deeper, a commitment to impact. Through its one sip one day initiative, every measure of Desi Daru provides clean drinking water to communities in need across India.

Now stocked in the likes of Selfridges, Harvey Nichols and some of the UK’s most celebrated bars and restaurants, Desi Daru is as much at home in a Mayfair cocktail lounge as it is in a story of cultural pride.

We caught up with founder Mohit Singh to talk heritage, hustle and building a vodka brand with meaning.

What is the story behind the name Desi Daru?

The name is quite a funky one. When translated from Hindi to English, it literally means Indian booze. We felt it would be instantly catchy within the South Asian community, but also something intriguing and memorable for people from all backgrounds.

How would you describe the brand in three words?

Story, liquid, bottle.

The story comes from my background. I studied for ten years up to PhD level and now work as a quantitative analyst, applying complex research techniques. I have taken that same approach into developing our vodka. Alongside Aneet, we have created something that truly reflects our heritage.

The liquid itself, I genuinely believe, is the tastiest and highest rated vodka in the world. And the bottle is a real showstopper. It took two years to develop and is inspired by India, striking that balance between elegance and standing out.

What makes Desi Daru stand out in a crowded spirits market?

At its core, it is an ultra premium vodka inspired by India but born in Britain. Our mission has always been to use ingredients from both countries, which reflects who we are as British born Indians. That authenticity, combined with quality, really sets us apart.

Who is the Desi Daru drinker?

It is someone who appreciates quality. People who love cocktails, but also those who enjoy sipping vodka the way you might sip an expensive whisky. There is a real appreciation for the craft.

What is your favourite way to enjoy Desi Daru?

The mango gimlet. It is served at Hoppers and honestly, it is incredible. The balance of sourness with the sweetness of the mango is something I absolutely love.

What is the bigger purpose behind the brand?

We want to become a household name, delivering exceptional liquid not just to the top bars in the world, but making it accessible more widely. Alongside that, making a real impact through our clean water initiative.

How do you want people to feel when they experience the brand?

Love and appreciation. Whether people are sipping it slowly and admiring the craftsmanship, or enjoying it in a more lively way, even doing shots, I love seeing that connection.

What cultural influence has shaped Desi Daru the most?

Growing up in the UK with Indian parents has been everything. The energy of the London bar scene, combined with yearly trips to India, really shaped the vision behind the brand.

What is next for Desi Daru?

We are taking it one step at a time, but ultimately it is about getting more and more people to discover it and fall in love with it.