I still remember trying my first Amrut whisky some fifteen years ago: Amrut Fusion. I thought it was very interesting mostly for the thick tropical fruitiness as a result of the hot Indian climate and its effects on maturation. Also Triparva and the Intermediate Sherry were very good.
In recent years there has been a small yearly series with experimental casks: Amrut Master Distiller’s Reserve. On our tasting table is the 2023 edition which matured in a Stout beer cask.
Amrut Master Distiller’s Reserve 2018 (50%, OB 2023, ex-Stout cask #4863, 282 btl.)
Nose: the usual fruity Amrut spirit (orange and mango) is not entirely absent, but it is overshadowed by a darker, slightly musty side. Hints of chocolate and gingerbread, with some black tea. Light smoke underneath, making it even more earthy. It could have been a sherry cask at this point, with some latte, nutty hints and mild black pepper.
Mouth: clearly darker than usual now, with coffee beans, some herbal bitters, peaty notes and more of the dark chocolate. More pepper, as well as clove and ginger. Most of the fruitiness is gone now, although there is a hint of blackberry underneath. Some pretty active wood flavours mixing with earthy smoke as it moves towards the finish.
Finish: medium length and drying, with more wood spice and a smoky echo.
While the nose promised, there is some woody astringency on the palate that I don’t associate with Amrut. The first time an Indian single malt is finished in a Stout cask, but not a must in any way.