Indri Drú | Whisky Review
Physical Whisky Characteristics
- Origin: Indri Drú is an Indian single malt whisky from the Piccadilly distillery, located in the northern region of Haryana, near the Himalayas. This area is distinct from Punjab, another northern region known for barley production.
- Type: Single malt whisky.
- Distillation and Maturation Process: The distillery operates with six stills modeled after Scottish stills, including three wash stills and three spirit stills, with capacities of 25,000 liters and 15,000 liters, respectively. The whisky is matured in ex-bourbon casks.
- Age Statement: Indri Drú does not carry an age statement.
- Physical Description: The whisky is presented in a nicely designed cardboard box, a common packaging material sourced from India. The whisky itself is bottled at 57.2% ABV, indicating a strong concentration.
Whisky Flavor Profile
- The flavor profile of Indri Drú is described as intensely sweet, with prominent notes of vanilla, roasted almonds, and a hint of caramel. It also exhibits a spicy touch, adding complexity to its sweetness. The whisky's flavor is likened to a blend between Scotch and bourbon, missing the corn touch found in American whiskies but retaining a maltiness from its barley base.
Whisky Storytelling
- The name "Indri Drú" is derived from Sanskrit, with "Drú" meaning wood, tree, or wooden container, and "Soma" referring to a drink offered to the gods. This name reflects the distillery's connection to old Indian mythology and traditions, which they plan to explore further in future bottlings.
Cultural or Geographical Significance
- The whisky's production incorporates six-row barley sourced from the region of the Yamuna river, emphasizing its regional and cultural roots. The distillery's location near the Himalayas and its use of traditional Indian mythology in naming and storytelling highlight its deep cultural and geographical significance.
Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes
- The reviewer appreciates the whisky's intense flavor profile and its balance between Scotch and bourbon characteristics. The absence of an age statement and the curiosity about the maturation climate near the Himalayas are noted, with an interest in how these factors influence the whisky's flavors.
Summary
- Indri Drú is an Indian single malt whisky from the Piccadilly distillery in Haryana, matured in ex-bourbon casks and bottled at 57.2% ABV.
- It features a sweet flavor profile with notes of vanilla, roasted almonds, and caramel, and a spicy touch.
- The whisky's name and storytelling draw from old Indian mythology, emphasizing its cultural roots.
- The distillery's geographical location and use of regional barley contribute to its unique identity.
- The review highlights the whisky's intense flavors and its blend of Scotch and bourbon characteristics.
Recommendations for Different User Profiles
- For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring non-traditional whisky-producing regions and unique flavor profiles would find Indri Drú intriguing.
- For Fans of Sweet Whiskies: Individuals who enjoy sweet, intense whiskies, similar to some bourbons, would likely appreciate Indri Drú's flavor profile.
- For Adventurous Drinkers: People looking to explore whiskies with cultural and mythological significance, or those curious about the impact of different maturation climates, would find Indri Drú a fascinating choice.