Smoke Lab Vodka is a brand founded in 2019 by Varun Jain. More than just a spirit, Smoke Lab Vodka represents a cultural statement: proof that India can rival the world’s leading producers of fine spirits while proudly carrying its heritage. Crafted from basmati rice and pure Himalayan water, it is distilled five times, resulting in an exceptionally smooth vodka — naturally gluten-free and with refined nuances. Sustainability is embedded in every stage of production, making Smoke Lab the first Indian vodka to come from a carbon-neutral distillery.
Its expressions embody both tradition and innovation: Classic, ultra-smooth and versatile; Aniseed, with subtle notes of Indian spices; Saffron, the world’s first premium vodka infused with saffron; and Green Chilli Mango, a bold blend of spice and fruit, at once contemporary and deeply Indian.
The Founder and the Vision
Varun Jain is one of the most transformative voices in India’s luxury spirits industry — an innovator redefining how Indian spirits are perceived on a global scale. He combines Indian distillation savoir-faire with contemporary innovation and sophisticated design.
In 2019, he launched Smoke Lab Vodka, India’s first premium vodka, which quickly gained international recognition. Under his leadership, Smoke Lab entered the U.S. market in 2020 and established a presence in New York, New Jersey, and Florida — one of the world’s most competitive spirits landscapes. At the heart of his philosophy is the concept of responsible luxury, reflected in the brand’s carbon-neutral distillery and recyclable aluminum packaging for Smoke Lab Water.
Global Recognition and Expansion
In 2025, at the prestigious SIP Awards in California — the only international spirits competition judged exclusively by consumers in blind tastings — Smoke Lab earned four distinctions, including double golds and the Consumer Choice Award. With a strong presence in the U.S., the brand is set to expand into California and Texas by the end of 2025, strengthen its foothold in the Middle East, and launch in Europe and the UK in 2026, targeting luxury retail and hospitality channels.
A New Era for Indian Spirits
Defined as “The modern spirit of India for the world”, Smoke Lab appeals to urban, design-conscious consumers seeking authenticity, innovation, and sustainability in their luxury choices. Together with NV Group, Varun Jain is building an “India-first, world-class” portfolio, transforming India from a consumer to a creator of premium spirits.
By Carla Branco