Amrut Single Malt Cask Strength review

This is the cask strength version of Amrut Single Malt which is normally bottled at 46% alcohol by volume level. In my opinion their normal single malt is decent, but I do like the Amrut Fusion. So I really didn’t know what to expect. Something in between?

Amrut Cask Strength has been bottled at 61,8% ABV so it certainly has natural strength. Amrut states very vaguely the cask type(s), “Aged in oak barrels” it says on the label. Usually they’ve used new oak and Ex-Bourbon casks so that’s my guess. Maturing happens at 3000 feet (1000 meters) above sea level, in Bangalore where conditions are hot and humid.

Whisky aging happens faster in India and Amrut whiskies are typically bottled very young. Hot and humid climates accelerate the maturing, so don’t be fooled by age statements of Indian or Taiwanese malt whiskies. Young age can be very misleading in those categories.

Tame this beast with water

High ABV combined with Indian maturing conditions, I was expecting powerful explosions on my palate. And that’s exactly what I received. Cask strength Amrut is definitely a good whisky, but in my book it couldn’t match Amrut Fusion’s greatness. It’s just there in between Amrut Single Malt and Fusion.

Tasting notes

Colour: Red amber

ABV: 61.8%

Nose: Peat and red fruits. Very strong aromas. Toasted oak and salty licorice, with sugary tone. Burning sawdust and dark fruity notes.

Taste: Very sweet and dark burning flavors. Strong red fruity notes. With warming spices and sugars. Caramel, toffee and warming spices.

Finish: Strong oaky flavors and vanilla. Red licorice and fruits.

Balance: Good cask strength whisky, lots of character but needs more balance, I think. Still overall, a good dram. Tame it by adding water and you’ll enjoy it for sure.

Cask Strength Amrut Scoring

Nose:Taste:Finish:Balance:

Distillery: Amrut Region: Bangalore, India

Did you know?

Amrut started producing single malt whisky in 2001 and they have Scottish style of wash and spirit stills in use. Their whiskies are made using local barley and water.

Cask Strength Amrut Single Malt Whisky Review