Discover the essence of Indian craftsmanship with **Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky**, a pioneering spirit that redefines premium whisky. Crafted in Bengaluru using hand-picked Indian barley and pristine Himalayan water, this award-winning whisky boasts a unique profile shaped by India's warm climate, with flavors developing rapidly during maturation in oak barrels. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, it offers a rich tapestry of caramel, honey, toasted grain, and subtle oak, with a smooth, lingering finish. Recognized globally, including accolades like the "World's Best Whisky" at the 2024 International Spirits Challenge, Amrut represents the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, delivering a luxurious tasting experience that speaks to connoisseurs and newcomers alike.
Process & Profile
Amrut Single Malt Whisky is crafted using 100% Indian 6-row barley sourced from the fertile foothills of the Himalayas. This barley is malted and distilled using a meticulous process, combining time-honored tradition with industry-leading innovation. Fermentation spans over 140 hours, maximizing flavor complexity, followed by slow distillation in copper stills. The whisky matures in a tropical climate, aging nearly 3.5 times faster than Scotch whiskies. This unique aging environment, with annual temperature averages of 78°F, results in a remarkable expression that rivals whiskies aged for over a decade in cooler climates.
The spirit is matured in a combination of new American oak and ex-Bourbon barrels, culminating in a whisky rich with depth and character. Non-chill filtered and bottled at 46% ABV, Amrut preserves its raw flavor integrity.
Tasting Notes
Amrut Indian Single Malt captivates with its multi-layered profile:
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Nose: Bold notes of liquorice and bourbon, accompanied by burnt honeycomb, sweet toffee, and citrus accents.
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Palate: The richness of barley-oak sweetness dominates, complemented by layers of molasses, coffee, and dark chocolate. Subtle honey tones enhance the experience, offering balance and warmth.
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Finish: Long and layered, the finish is a silky interplay of creamy toffee, oak spices, and hints of earthy cacao, leaving a lasting impression with every sip.
What Makes It Special
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A Pioneer in Indian Whisky: Amrut is India's first single malt whisky, revolutionizing global perceptions of Indian spirits since its debut in 2004.
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Unique Aging: Bangalore's tropical climate accelerates maturation and imparts an unparalleled depth of flavor in just 4 to 5 years—equivalent to 12-15 years in Scotland.
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Global Acclaim: Esteemed by critics and connoisseurs alike, Amrut has received numerous awards, with its Fusion variant rated among the world's top whiskies.
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Craftsmanship and Purity: Made with pristine water from deep aquifers, premium hand-selected Indian barley, and precision distillation, Amrut exemplifies quality.
How to Enjoy
Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
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Neat: Appreciate the full spectrum of its complex flavors and aromas.
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On the Rocks: Add a couple of ice cubes to mellow the flavors without losing its essence.
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With a Splash of Water: Enhance the subtler notes of honey and spices by adding a small amount of water.
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In Cocktails: Its robust flavor profile makes it a fantastic base for whisky-forward cocktails like an Old Fashioned or Whisky Sour.
Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky is more than just a spirit; it is a celebration of craftsmanship, ingenuity, and the rich cultural heritage of India. Whether you're a seasoned whisky connoisseur or an adventurous newcomer, Amrut promises an experience that lingers long after the final sip.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is unique about Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky compared to Scotch?
Amrut Indian Single Malt Whisky is crafted under India's tropical climate, which accelerates the aging process. One year of maturation in India is equivalent to approximately three years in Scotland. This results in bold and robust flavors in a shorter time. Additionally, Amrut uses six-row Indian barley, which imparts spicier notes compared to the two-row barley commonly used in Scotch. The high-altitude, low-humidity environment further defines its distinctive profile.
What ingredients are used to make Amrut Single Malt Whisky?
The whisky is made from 100% malted barley sourced from India (six-row barley) and occasionally peated barley imported from Scotland for certain variants. The water used is sourced from pristine aquifers, ensuring purity in every batch.
How long is Amrut Single Malt Whisky aged, and why is the aging period shorter?
Amrut Single Malt Whisky is typically aged for 4–5 years. Due to India's warmer climate, whisky matures faster, with one year in India being equivalent to about three years in Scotland. This accelerated aging process intensifies flavors but also results in a higher "angel's share" (evaporation loss) of 10–12% annually, compared to 2% in Scotland.
What does Amrut Single Malt Whisky taste like?
Amrut Single Malt Whisky is known for its creamy and full-bodied profile with flavors of tropical fruits, vanilla, and caramel. Depending on the variant, there may also be notes of spice, smoke, or oak. The whisky often finishes with a smooth, slightly oaky or minty aftertaste.
Where is Amrut Single Malt Whisky produced?
It is produced at Amrut Distilleries located in Bengaluru, India, which is situated at an altitude of 3,000 feet. The region's unique climate and conditions influence the maturation and flavor development of the whisky.
What is the "angel's share" in Amrut Single Malt Whisky production?
The "angel's share" refers to the portion of whisky lost to evaporation during aging. In Amrut's case, this is particularly high—around 10‚Äì12% annually—due to India's hot climate. In contrast, the angel's share in Scotland is about 2% annually.
Is Amrut Single Malt only available in India?
No, Amrut Single Malt Whisky is internationally recognized and exported to over 50 countries. It has gained acclaim for its quality and has won numerous awards globally.
What awards has Amrut Single Malt Whisky received?
Amrut has received significant recognition, including being named the third-best whisky in the world by a prominent whisky writer. Its variants, such as Amrut Fusion, have also earned near-perfect scores in whisky competitions.
What are some popular Amrut variants?
Popular Amrut single malts include the flagship Amrut Fusion (a blend of Indian and Scottish peated barley), Amrut Kadhambam, and the premium Greedy Angels series. Each offers unique flavor profiles that highlight the distillery's innovation and craftsmanship.
How should Amrut Single Malt Whisky be enjoyed?
Amrut can be enjoyed neat, with a splash of water, or over ice. Allowing it to sit in the glass for a moment can help its complex flavors open up. It pairs well with desserts or post-dinner as a luxurious sipping option.