PUNI Alba

I had heard both positive and negative feedback about this whisky. Having lived in France, I've observed the rise of whisky production in France, Sweden, Wales, and Ireland (following a decline in output), so I was eager to sample Italy's offering. Let's begin with the nose: it was delightful, with wine cask notes, a drier sensation from the Italian wine compared to the rounder, sweeter profile of French wine cask whisky, and a subtle peat, which was promising. Upon tasting... it's watery and young, the grain is weak, lacking the character of Breton, not austere like Scottish, not generous like French... simply dull and without personality. The Marsala begins to emerge but is overwhelmed by the peat. A robust Ileach Cask Strength hum of old oak, bourbon, rye, and merciless peat dominates, clashing with the youth of the whisky. Finally, the Italian wine makes a faint appearance after the peat, dry and peppery, sweet, but the impact is marred by the bitter peat. Perhaps with more aging, this whisky could be worthwhile, but currently, it's a disorganized mess. If you seek that old cask and peat character, I'd suggest Ileach Cask Strength, or G. Rozelieures Rare for European oak, wine cask, and peat. For something bold yet delicate, consider Naguelann Mesk, which features malted buckwheat and barley. I advise staying away from this overpriced whisky.

The color is a lovely light amber, very delicate. On the nose, you immediately notice a light peaty smokiness, indicating the Islay barrels aren't just for show, accompanied by distinct sweet and wine-like notes, clearly from Marsala. There are yellow fruits with a pinch of pepper. The aroma isn't particularly complex, but it's pleasant; the youthfulness is quite apparent. On the palate, the alcohol stings slightly, and the peaty smokiness is immediately overshadowed by the strong influence of Marsala: lots of wine, lots of orange, along with candied fruit, spices (more pepper, with cloves), and after a short pause, the herbaceous peat returns with a hint of minerality. The flavor profile in the mouth is more engaging than the aroma, offering more variety, though it remains not particularly layered, with the wine-like character being dominant. However, for a 3-year-old, it's already a remarkable accomplishment. The finish is very Marsala-like with a touch of citrus, not very long and dry.

If you appreciate extremely smoky whiskey, you will enjoy Puni Alba. I acquired this whiskey three years ago through a relative in the UK, but due to circumstances like Covid, I was unable to obtain this bottle. Recently, with travel restrictions eased, I visited the UK. With considerable expectation and eagerness, I finally had the opportunity to sample the first Italian whiskey produced in the land of my ancestors. To my immense disappointment, I found the taste of cigar ash overpowering my senses. I am a significant admirer of whiskey and bourbon but dislike smoke to the extent that it masks all other characteristics of the spirit. If it were possible to give this whiskey zero stars, I would. My apologies to all enthusiasts of smoky, peaty spirits.

Nose: rich fruit cake, caramel, floral honey, apricot, blood orange, vanilla, and light citrus. Rose water and light berry notes present. Taste: intense bitter wormwood with cinnamon, nutmeg, and light cloves. The finish is fruity and honeyed with a hint of vanilla. Very sweet cherry and toffee flavors detected.

Flaviar advent day 2. Sweet dark fruits, honey, walnut, and spice are present as you discuss it after tasting. There's a very pleasant vanilla note on the palate. The oak is subtle and remains in the background.

This whiskey is quite sweet, with flavors of raisins, honey, and a hint of orange zest. Lingering spicy notes remain on my tongue after tasting. The first whiff is overwhelmingly of dried fruit and sweetness.