New Rampur Indian Single Malt Is Finished In Indian Cabernet Sauvignon Casks

India-based Radico Khaitan, the makers of Rampur Indian Single Malt Whisky, recently released its latest concoction: Rampur Asava Indian Single Malt Whisky. This unique expression — a single malt matured in American bourbon barrels and finished in Indian cabernet sauvignon casks — is the first of its kind, according to a statement from the company.

“We are very proud of our Indian heritage and Rampur Asava is another step in bringing the unique whiskies of India to the world. We are confident the exotic and unique Indian flavors will delight your palate,” Abhishek Khaitan, Managing Director at Radico Khaitan, said in a prepared statement.

“We are always striving to make each Rampur expression of the highest quality and exciting for malt whisky drinkers,” added Anup Barik, Master Distiller at Rampur Distillery. “The diverse weather conditions at the distillery have enabled us to be creative and experiment with our single malts. I was inspired to create Rampur Asava as I wanted to see how the dark fruit flavours of an Indian Cabernet Sauvignon would develop the flavour of Rampur Single Malt Whisky.

“I am delighted with the results as there is an impeccable balance of taste in this finely perfected golden nectar that lingers on your taste buds.”

This dark mahogany colored whisky is non chill filtered and bottled at 45% ABV in a distillery at the foot of the Himalayas. Said to be “a combination of traditional Indian heritage and contemporary culture,” plans call for it to be released at a price point of £69 (about $90 USD) in the United Kingdom and the US, with more markets to follow. 

Official tasting notes from the brand are as follows:

• Nose: tropical fruity notes of Rampur with apricot, black current, blackberry, dark cherry and plum with hints of tobacco and spices.
• Palate: Manuka honey sweetness, spicy oak, vanilla, balanced with dryness from Indian red wine.
• Finish: Medium to long finish.