By now we’re all familiar with Paul John and Amrut, single malt whiskies from India that have proven themselves. A little while ago a third brand hit the markt, Rampur. And not without succes.
Today I’ll take a closer look at the Rampur Vintage Select Casks, an expression distilled at Radico Khaitan Distillery, which is situated in the foothills of the Himalayas. Indian grown six-row barley is used, as opposed to the commonly used two-row variant.
Rampur has already picked up some accolades, most recently being mentioned as one of the Top 20 Whiskies of 2017 by Whisky Advocate. On the corporate website Rampur is described as the Kohinoor of Single Malts. Comparing your whisky to one of the largest cut diamonds in the world? Well, that’s pretty bold. And raises expectations too.
Rampur Vintage Select Casks (43%, OB, 2017)
Nose: Apple peel and pear skins go hand-in-hand with caramel and fudge, as well as a hint of galia melon and an array of citrus fruits. Fresh, vibrant and very inviting. Quite floral as well, coming close to being perfume-y, but it accomplishes to delicately walk that tight rope.
Taste: Lots of synergy between the nose and the palate. A similar fruitiness, but there are also some funkier notes, almost like an Irish single pot still whiskey, with a distinct spiciness (although not quite). A hint of cough syrup. Very interesting, although I’m not completely sure how I feel about it.
Finish: Light, subtle fruits. Medium in length.
Rating: 83
Very promising with a fantastically fruity nose, although the palate can’t quite keep up. Nevertheless this is a good debut on the world stage.
Sample provided by De Monnik Dranken
