Indian whisky distiller Paul John has released the 2026 edition of its annual Christmas Edition single malt whisky, finished in Spanish Moscatel casks. The ninth release in the series totals 6,500 bottles globally, with the UK receiving an allocation of just 480 bottles, retailing at £65 per 70cl bottle through specialist spirits retailers.
The unpeated whisky was created on the tropical shores of Goa. It was first matured in American oak casks before being finished in Moscatel casks for 18 months.
Moscatel is an aromatic wine and a fixture on the Christmas table in Spanish festive traditions. The wine lends a floral, sweet character to the whisky, allowing it to stand up to rich, indulgent food.
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READ THE STORYPaul John whiskies mature in Goa’s tropical heat and humidity, producing a spirit different to those matured in cooler climates. The angels’ share is higher, maturation moves quicker, and the spirit typically draws greater intensity of flavor from its casks.
This year’s edition is finished in casks sourced from Spain and given a three-level char.
“Since its inception in 2018, the Paul John Christmas Edition has become a celebration of both Goa’s enduring Christmas spirit and our passion for whisky craftsmanship,” said Michael D’Souza, master distiller at Paul John. “Each year, we create a distinct small-batch expression, bringing together carefully selected whiskies matured in an evolving palette of Spanish and Portuguese wine, rum and brandy casks,” he added.
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D’Souza continued: “Nearly a decade on, the Christmas Edition stands as a unique Indian whisky tradition: an ongoing annual series that has continued to surprise, evolve and set its own benchmark, unlike anything else in Indian whisky.”
The master distiller described the expression as capturing “the spirit of Christmas in a glass.”
According to the official notes from the brand, the golden whisky offers orange blossom honey and light spices on the nose. The palate develops into honeyed malt, dark chocolate, clove and nutmeg, with a long, creamy finish.
Next year will mark a decade of Paul John Christmas Editions.
The 2026 Christmas Edition is non-chill-filtered with no additives and bottled at 48% ABV.
