Name: Amrut Peated Single Malt Whisky

Where it comes from: Amrut Distilleries

ABV: 42.8%

Casks: Ex-Bourbon

Specialty: As we run through the different single malt whiskies from India, we now are in the bolder territory. Apart from the gentle and softer whiskies, distillers in the sub-continent produce some very classy smoky drams. Peated whiskies have distinct smoke as a part of the flavor profile and usually add to the complexity of the whisky. This peated whisky from Amrut provides a different dimension in the category. With the sweet distillate profile providing a wrap to the clean Highland peat, this whisky is a grand entry to peated Indian whiskies.

Tasting notes (From the distillery):

Nose: Unusually dry peat; not dissimilar to peat reek absorbed by an old leather armchair; a hint of citrus, too

Taste: Despite the nose, the immediate sensation is one of being caressed by molasses sugar and then a ratching up of the peat notes. As they get more forceful, so the experience becomes that little bit drier and spicier, though not without the molasses refusing to give way.

Finish: You can tell the quality of the distillate and the barrels it has been matured in by the crystalline depth to the finish. Everything is clear on the palate and the butterscotch vanillas wrap the phenols for a comfortable and clean finale

Why it should be a part of your celebrations: With the winter chills, a smoky and robust dram is a preferred choice for evening celebrations. A pairing with a barbeque or a bonfire, this whisky will etch itself in your mind. Allowing the whisky to air in the glass for around 5-6 minutes will allow it to open up those phenols.