Thoughtful Gifting Trends Led by Premium Spirits for International Men’s Day

A considered guide to meaningful Men’s Day gifting

“Your living is determined not so much by what life brings to you as by the attitude you bring to life,” says Kahlil Gibran. International Men’s Day, observed on November 19, offers an opportunity to acknowledge the men who contribute quietly and consistently to daily life. They are often the first to help, the last to seek recognition and the ones who keep routines steady, from handling practical problems to offering support without drawing attention to themselves.

As conversations around men’s wellbeing, emotional balance and identity evolve, many individuals are marking the day with gestures that feel personal rather than perfunctory. Gifting is shifting from generic choices to more intentional selections that reflect personality, preference and a sense of shared experience. Premium spirits, particularly those rooted in craftsmanship, provenance and distinctive flavours, are emerging as meaningful options.

Men are increasingly guided by authenticity in how they live, travel, spend and celebrate. As preferences move towards quality over excess, premium whiskies, craft gins, small-batch vodkas and innovative liqueurs are becoming part of thoughtful gifting traditions.

Below is a curated guide to spirits that align with these preferences, each bringing its own story, origin and character.

Wingman Whisky – A Considered Celebration Companion

Wingman Whisky combines Speyside single malts with premium grain spirits, offering a smooth profile suited to both relaxed evenings and social gatherings. Its Pop and Pour closure adds convenience and makes it a suitable choice for Men’s Day gifting, especially for someone who appreciates contemporary style in a familiar format.

Kumaon & I – For the Man Who Values Calm and Craft

Kumaon & I is India’s first provincial gin, crafted in the Kumaon region using local botanicals. Notes of Galgal, black cardamom and Kalmegh bark create a grounded, steady character. It is well-suited for men whose presence brings composure, whether as a father, mentor, or a longstanding figure of support.

Jin Jiji – Familiar, Approachable and Personal

Jin Jiji is a home-grown gin recognised internationally. Its Indian Dry Gin blends juniper, soft spices and chamomile for a balanced profile, while the Darjeeling expression introduces Masala Chai notes. It is an appropriate choice for brothers, close friends or anyone who prefers flavour without complexity.

Bandarful – For Moments of Ease and Liveliness

Bandarful brings together Chikmagalur Arabica beans, cane sugar and Himalayan spring water to create a coffee-lead spirit. Its approachable profile suits social evenings and shared conversations, making it a fitting gift for those who enjoy warmth, energy and light-hearted moments.

Neoli – A Quiet, Grounded Expression

Neoli is distilled from fresh sugarcane juice in India’s first Double Retort Pot Still, offering a gentle profile with soft vanilla and a clean sugarcane finish. It is ideal for partners or individuals whose presence feels stable and reassuring, reflecting honesty and unembellished character.

Hudka – Crisp, Straightforward and Sociable

Made from locally grown sativa rice and Himalayan spring water, Hudka carries a crisp profile inspired by the hills of Kumaon. Its name comes from the traditional hourglass drum used by storytellers, and the spirit reflects a similar rhythmic simplicity. It suits colleagues, cousins or friends who bring effortless cheer.

Bonga Bonga – A Playful, Distinctive Choice

Bonga Bonga is a liqueur crafted with more than forty botanicals drawn from Indian spices and European herbs. Best served chilled at -10°C, it also features a reusable bottle with an infuser. It appeals to men who enjoy experimentation, novelty and unconventional gifts.

Glen Eden Whisky – A Refined and Composed Selection

Glen Eden Whisky offers balanced notes of fruit, spice and vanilla. Designed for Indian palates, it works well for premium hampers and individual gifting, especially for men who appreciate subtlety, craft and quiet refinement.

A growing number of men are choosing moments of pause and connection over large celebrations. As gifting becomes more intentional, premium spirits provide an avenue for expressing appreciation while sharing a story, memory or experience. For many, these bottles serve as keepsakes, catalysts for conversation and markers of gratitude.