Whisky Review/Tasting: Amrut Intermediate Sherry

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: India
Type: Indian Single Malt Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: Initially matured in virgin and ex-bourbon casks, followed by a one-year finish in Spanish Oloroso sherry butts, and then returned to bourbon casks.
Age Statement: No specific age statement, but it's suggested to be around 3 years plus the additional year from the Oloroso sherry cask finish.
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the whisky is noted to be non-colored and non-chill filtered.
Bottle Design and Packaging: The bottle encountered a faulty cork (described as "Korken kaput"), which led to a bit of cork disintegration upon opening. The ABV is 57.1%.

General Flavor: The whisky is described as very fruity, with a sweet profile enhanced by the complexity from the Oloroso sherry cask finish. Despite the expectation of sweetness, the Oloroso sherry contributes a nutty character without overwhelming sweetness.
Unique Characteristics: The flavor profile includes fresh fruits like cherries transitioning into deeper notes of dried fruits such as raisins and figs, with a hint of chocolate reminiscent of a malt-based German drink called Kamaz. The whisky is described as oily, contributing to the richness of the flavor.
Comparison: While not directly compared to other whiskies, the unique maturation process and the resulting complex flavor profile set it apart.

Anecdotes: The reviewer shares a practical tip about keeping spare corks, which comes in handy when encountering a faulty cork, as experienced during the tasting.
Production Process: The unusual maturation process involving multiple transfers between bourbon and sherry casks is highlighted as a distinctive aspect of this whisky's creation.

Indian Whisky: Amrut positions itself as a pioneer in the Indian single malt category, showcasing the potential of Indian whisky on the global stage.
Maturation Process: The use of Spanish Oloroso sherry butts for finishing introduces a cross-cultural element to the whisky's maturation, blending Indian and Spanish influences.

Amrut Intermediate Sherry is an Indian single malt whisky with a unique maturation process involving virgin and ex-bourbon casks, followed by a finish in Oloroso sherry butts.
The whisky is characterized by a complex and fruity flavor profile, with notes of fresh and dried fruits, a hint of chocolate, and a subtle spiciness.
The unusual maturation process and the faulty cork incident provide interesting storytelling elements.
The whisky reflects the cultural fusion of Indian distillation and Spanish sherry influence.
Expert opinions highlight the whisky's rich flavor profile and acknowledge its potentially higher price point due to the unique production process.

For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring complex maturation processes and the influence of sherry cask finishing will find this whisky intriguing.
For Fans of Fruity and Sweet Whiskies: Individuals who appreciate a sweet, fruity profile with depth and complexity will enjoy Amrut Intermediate Sherry.
For Collectors: The unique production story and the potential rarity due to the maturation process make this a worthy addition to a collector's shelf.
For Adventurous Drinkers: Anyone looking to explore the burgeoning world of Indian single malts or seeking whiskies with unusual production stories will find this whisky appealing.