Whisky Review/Tasting: Indian Tetra Pak Whiskies

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: India, specifically from the Amrut Distillery.
Type: Unaged grain whiskies mixed with molasses, not single malt whiskies.
Distillation and Maturation Process: These whiskies have an age statement of zero years, indicating they are unaged. They are colored to even out all the batches to a brown color.
Color and Bottle Design: The whiskies are artificially colored. They are packaged in Tetra Pak containers, a departure from traditional glass bottles, highlighting their affordability and practicality for local consumption.

The flavor profile of these whiskies is notably distinct from traditional whiskies, with a significant presence of solvent-like and industrial tastes. One of the whiskies has a slight remembrance of white rum, but both predominantly feature a solvent taste. The aftertaste is described as long and disturbing, with a lack of texture or mouthfeel. One of the whiskies has a slight caramel note that quickly dissipates, followed by a sharp taste.

The Amrut Distillery, established in 1948, initially started as a medical supply company producing medical alcohol. It transitioned into the distillation business in the 1960s or 1970s. The distillery's history is tied closely to India's post-independence era, reflecting a blend of tradition and innovation in its product offerings.

Indian whiskies, particularly those from the Amrut Distillery, reflect the local production methods and ingredients, such as the use of molasses. The discussion highlights the high import duties on Western whiskies in India, which has led to a preference for local products. The packaging in Tetra Pak containers speaks to the economic considerations and recycling efforts within the country.

The hosts express a clear preference for traditional whisky over these Indian Tetra Pak whiskies, noting the unusual and industrial flavor profile. They rate the whiskies very low, with the "prestige" variant slightly preferred over the other due to a marginally better and more complex flavor profile.

Indian Tetra Pak whiskies from the Amrut Distillery are unaged grain whiskies mixed with molasses.
The flavor profile is dominated by solvent-like and industrial tastes, with a disturbingly long aftertaste and lack of mouthfeel.
The Amrut Distillery has a history dating back to 1948, initially producing medical alcohol.
These whiskies reflect the economic and cultural context of India, including high import duties on foreign spirits and local recycling efforts.
The hosts rate these whiskies very low, highlighting their significant departure from traditional whisky flavor profiles.

Adventurous Drinkers: Individuals interested in exploring unconventional spirits and understanding the breadth of whisky production methods worldwide might find these whiskies an interesting, albeit challenging, tasting experience.
Cultural Enthusiasts: Those intrigued by the cultural and economic aspects of whisky production in different regions may appreciate trying these whiskies as a study in contrast to traditional Scotch or American whiskies.
Budget-Conscious Consumers: Given their extremely low cost, these whiskies might appeal to budget-conscious consumers in India, though the unique flavor profile may not suit all palates.