Paul John Oloroso Select Cask

Paul John Oloroso Select Cask | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Goa, India.
  • Type: Indian Single Malt Whisky.
  • Distillation & Maturation: Matured in Oloroso Sherry Casks, experiences a very fast additive maturation due to the warm climate of Goa, leading to significant angel's share loss.
  • Age Statement: No age statement provided, but noted for being young due to the climate's impact on maturation.
  • Color: Deep amber, with natural coloring and no added flavors or colors.
  • Bottle Design: Tall bottles that may not fit easily into standard storage, presented in a nice box.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • ABV: 48%.
  • General Profile: Sweet and fruity, with a notable presence of dried fruits such as plums and raisins. Despite expectations, it is rounder and less spicy than anticipated, with a comfortable amount of oakiness.
  • Unique Characteristics: The whisky is described as almost syrupy, with fermented fruit flavors adding complexity. It contains chocolate notes and a lesser degree of spiciness than expected from the oak, especially considering its maturation in Oloroso Sherry Casks.

Whisky Storytelling

  • The Paul John Oloroso Select Cask is part of a special series where individual casks are selected for release, highlighting the distillery's commitment to showcasing unique expressions of their whisky.
  • The distillery's location in Goa is likened to a blend between Hawaii and Florida, emphasizing the unique climate's impact on the whisky's maturation process.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Goa's warm climate significantly influences the whisky's maturation, leading to a faster additive maturation process and a higher angel's share loss. This climate contributes to the whisky's unique flavor profile, distinguishing Indian single malts from their Scotch counterparts.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "Indian single malt whisky is definitely a category on its own."
  • "It's definitely a sherry bomb that is, strangely enough, not as sticky sweet."
  • "The whole range of selected casks is pretty well done."

Summary

  • The Paul John Oloroso Select Cask is an Indian Single Malt Whisky from Goa, matured in Oloroso Sherry Casks.
  • It has a deep amber color, with a natural coloring and a high ABV of 48%.
  • The flavor profile is sweet and fruity, with less spiciness than expected and a comfortable oakiness.
  • The warm climate of Goa significantly influences the whisky's maturation, contributing to its unique characteristics.
  • The whisky is part of a special series, emphasizing the distillery's commitment to showcasing unique expressions.
  • Expert opinions highlight the whisky's distinctiveness and recommend the entire range of selected casks.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Whisky Enthusiasts: Those interested in exploring the unique characteristics of Indian single malts will find the Paul John Oloroso Select Cask intriguing due to its distinct maturation process and flavor profile.
  • For Sherry Cask Fans: Individuals who appreciate the influence of sherry cask maturation but are looking for something less sweet than typical sherry bombs might enjoy this whisky's balanced profile.
  • For Collectors: Given the limited availability and the special series nature of this whisky, collectors seeking unique or regional expressions would find this a worthy addition to their collection.