Amrut Fusion Whisky Review/Tasting
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Amrut Fusion is a unique blend of malt from Europe (specifically peated malt likely from Port Ellen) and malt from India, specifically from the northern regions near the Himalayas in Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh.
- Type: It is a fusion of Scotch (representing the West) and Indian whisky (representing the East).
- Distillation and Maturation Process: The whisky involves blending peated European malt spirit with Indian malt spirit before maturation. The maturation process uses both old and new oak barrels, including American standard barrels. The whisky is non-chill filtered and has no added color.
- Age Statement: Amrut Fusion does not have an age statement, which is attributed to the extremely hot climate of India that accelerates evaporation in the casks.
- Physical Description: The whisky has a 50% ABV (100 proof). The bottle design features the Whisky Bible rating of 97 points, emphasizing its high quality.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- Nose: The aroma hints at bourbon influences with a subtle, fruity nose that includes notes of honey, fruit salad, and a very faint whiff of smoke. The high ABV does not overpower the nose, allowing for a pleasant experience.
- Palate: The flavor profile is sweet and fruity, with dominant notes of green apples, lemon, raspberry, and a slight citric fruitiness. The peat is very subtle, making it less intense than heavily peated whiskies. The sweetness is pronounced, with a sticky sensation on the lips.
- Finish: The finish is described as long and enduring, with a good balance of flavors that work well together, though not intensely.
Whisky Storytelling
- The name "Fusion" reflects the innovative blending of Eastern and Western whisky traditions, showcasing the global nature of whisky production.
- The unique climate of India, with its three seasons of hot, hotter, and hottest, significantly impacts the aging process, making traditional age statements impractical.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- Amrut Fusion represents a bridge between Scotch whisky and Indian whisky traditions, highlighting the global appeal and versatility of whisky.
- The use of malt from the Himalayan regions of India adds a distinct geographical identity to the whisky, emphasizing its Indian heritage.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- "I didn't know you could go that high," referring to the Whisky Bible rating of 97 points, indicating exceptional quality.
- The hosts appreciate the balance and subtlety of the whisky, especially noting its sweet and fruity character despite the high ABV.
Summary
- Amrut Fusion is a blend of European peated malt and Indian malt, matured in a mix of old and new oak barrels.
- It features a subtle, sweet, and fruity flavor profile with a very faint peat presence.
- The whisky has no age statement due to India's hot climate affecting the aging process.
- It is non-chill filtered, has no added color, and boasts a 50% ABV.
- The whisky bridges Eastern and Western whisky traditions, with a significant cultural and geographical identity rooted in India.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring non-traditional whisky-producing regions and unique blends.
- For Scotch Lovers: Individuals curious about the fusion of Scotch and Indian whisky traditions, especially those open to subtle peat flavors.
- For Adventurous Drinkers: People looking for high-quality, high-ABV whiskies with a complex and balanced flavor profile.