Experience the bold and exotic flavors of Amrut Portonova, an un-peated Indian single malt whisky crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Distilled from select Himalayan barley and matured in new American oak and ex-bourbon barrels before a unique double maturation in once-used Portuguese port pipes and a final return to bourbon casks, this non-chillfiltered cask strength whisky (62.1% ABV) delivers remarkable complexity. Each sip unfolds rich layers of raisins, vanilla, cherry liqueur, and warming spices, resulting in a smooth, vibrant palate and a captivating fusion of Indian spice and European sweetness. Amrut Portonova honors its namesake, the historic town of Parangipettai (Portonovo) in Tamil Nadu, and stands as a true treasure among world-class single malts, offering a rare and memorable whisky experience.
Amrut Portonova Single Malt Whisky
Experience a world-class Indian single malt that marries time-honored traditions with innovative cask management. Amrut Portonova stands out for its intricate aging process and a unique flavor profile that captivates both seasoned whisky enthusiasts and adventurous newcomers.
Process & Profile Amrut Portonova is an unpeated single malt whisky crafted by Amrut Distilleries, India’s trailblazer in premium whiskies. The whisky’s journey begins with maturation in a combination of new American oak and ex-bourbon barrels. It is then transferred to once-used port pipes imported from Portugal, before being returned to ex-bourbon casks for a final rest. This elaborate aging regime imparts remarkable complexity and depth, reflecting both Indian craftsmanship and European influence. The whisky is bottled at a bold 62.1% ABV (124.2 proof), ensuring an intense, full-bodied experience.
Tasting Notes
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Nose: Rich and inviting, bursting with notes of raisin, dark berries, and grape, underpinned by decadent dark chocolate and hints of toasted coconut. Subtle caramel and pancake syrup sweetness emerge, balanced by dry malt and a gentle oakiness.
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Palate: Thick and chewy, with layers of sweet stewed fruits, pudding, and raisins. The influence of port casks brings forth dark berry flavors, while caramel and oak create a harmonious backbone. Despite its strength, the whisky delivers a velvety, indulgent mouthfeel.
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Finish: Long and warming, with lingering notes of spice, dark fruit, and a gentle peppery kick, all complemented by a touch of sugared fruit juices and oak.
What Makes It Special
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Multi-Cask Maturation: Unique three-stage aging in American oak, ex-bourbon, and Portuguese port pipes for unmatched complexity.
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Cask Strength: Bottled at 62.1% ABV, offering an unadulterated and intense whisky experience straight from the barrel.
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Cultural Fusion: Named after Portonovo (Parangipettai), a historic port town in Tamil Nadu once under Portuguese rule, this whisky pays homage to multicultural heritage and innovation.
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Global Recognition: Amrut Portonova consistently scores high marks among critics and has a loyal following, standing shoulder-to-shoulder with premium global single malts.
How to Enjoy
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Neat: Sip carefully to savor the powerful aroma and layered flavors. Due to the high ABV, take small sips and let the whisky open up in the glass.
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With Water: Add a few drops of water to mellow the strength and reveal additional subtleties, particularly the chocolate and caramel notes.
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Pairing: Enjoy with rich desserts or dark chocolate to complement the whisky’s fruit and spice profile.
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Special Occasions: Its complexity and cask strength make Portonova an ideal whisky for celebrations or gifting to connoisseurs.
Elevate your whisky collection with Amrut Portonova—where Indian spices meet European sweetness in a bottle that captures the essence of a global journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Amrut Portonova?
Amrut Portonova is an un-peated single malt whisky from India, recognized for its unique maturation process and vibrant flavor profile. It is produced by Amrut Distilleries and bottled at a robust cask strength of 62.1% ABV.
How is Amrut Portonova matured?
The whisky is matured initially in a combination of new American oak and ex-bourbon barrels. It is then transferred to once-used port pipes imported from Portugal, before being finished again in ex-bourbon casks. This multi-cask maturation imparts an exotic and complex taste to the final product.
What flavors can I expect from Amrut Portonova?
Expect a harmonious blend of Indian spices and European sweetness, with prominent notes of raisins, vanilla, cherry liqueur, caramel, dried fruit, and subtle spices. The palate is both exotic and vibrant, offering extraordinary smoothness despite its high ABV.
Is Amrut Portonova peated?
No, Amrut Portonova is an un-peated single malt whisky, which allows the natural flavors of the barley and barrels to shine through.
What is the origin of the name "Portonova"?
The name "Portonova" is inspired by the town of Parangipettai (historically known as Portonovo) in Tamil Nadu, India. This region was under Portuguese control from the 16th to 18th centuries, and the name reflects both its Indian heritage and the use of Portuguese port pipes in the maturation process.
Is Amrut Portonova chillfiltered or colored?
Amrut Portonova is non-chillfiltered and bottled at natural color to preserve the whisky’s full character and complexity.
Where is Amrut Portonova made?
This whisky is crafted in Bangalore, India, at an altitude of 3,000 feet above sea level, using barley grown at the foothills of the Himalayas and matured under unique tropical conditions.
What bottle sizes and strength are available?
Amrut Portonova is typically bottled in 700ml or 750ml formats, always at cask strength (62.1% ABV).
Does Amrut Portonova have an age statement?
No, Amrut Portonova is a no-age-statement single malt, focusing on flavor and maturation rather than age.
Who is Amrut Portonova best suited for?
This whisky is ideal for enthusiasts seeking a richly flavored, cask strength single malt with a unique Indian twist and a distinguished, layered palate.