Rampur Select Single Malt

The aroma is uniquely tropical and fruity, unlike any other whiskey. The taste, however, isn't as intensely fruity as the scent, though it still contains plenty of fruit. It's remarkably floral and mineral-forward with abundant tropical notes. Passion fruit, pineapple, pear, and mango are prominent. There's a surprising hint of smoke that's pleasant, considering the nose. The fruits present more like blossoms, which wasn't anticipated but is still good. It also has a somewhat malty character. That aroma is simply sublime. The vanilla complements it perfectly. The flavor balance is very impressive, and the tastes are mostly excellent. The hints of apricot and orange blossom that provide balance are wonderful additions. I wish it were bolder, though; I'd love to experience this at a higher age. The palate and finish lean a bit too bitter for my preference, which unfortunately is noticeable against the mild flavors. That fruit, though, is exceptionally good. It's not as overwhelmingly sweet as one might reasonably fear. It's quite an experience and diversifies any collection. I'd generally be happy sipping this, but it wouldn't be my go-to. It doesn't quite reach the heights of the Corsair Oatrage, but it is distinctly its own creation.

I enjoyed a serving of this at a Diwali celebration tonight. An open bar featured a Balvenie 12, Paul John, and a Talisker 10. The Talisker 10 was clearly the superior option in the selection, but I had never encountered this one before... so why not give it a try. Currently, Amrut is the undisputed leader for Indian whiskey, with Paul John following. However, Rampur... I hadn't heard of it. It apparently originates from the subcontinent's oldest distillery, Radico Khaitan, located in Uttar Pradesh. What's noteworthy is that Uttar Pradesh's climate differs considerably from Amrut's Bangalore and Paul John's Goa. Bangalore experiences a climate much like Texas; Goa is similar to Hawaii. Uttar Pradesh, on the other hand, has cold winters and hot, dry summers. So... perhaps more akin to Utah or Colorado. I would anticipate less wood influence compared to the intense heat of Bangalore or Goa. Regardless—tasting this is very much like a Dalwhinnie. Sweetness, grains, light. It lacks the power of Amrut... and its complexity. Very gentle and reserved. It might serve as a good introduction to Indian whiskey, but it's not something I would purchase anytime soon. Instead, opt for Amrut, or if you prefer less intensity, Paul John. Buy, pour, or fail... a definite failure.

Appears golden straw. Lychee is prominent on the aroma with hints of mandarin orange and floral notes. The flavor doesn't quite match the nose's complexity, but it's still great. Lychee and canned pears are present with a pleasant, though subtle, woody finish. Adding a bit of water enhances the fruit and floral scents and gives the texture more body. It was recognized as Whisky Advocate’s #5 whiskey of the year in 2017, and it's understandable why. In a blind tasting, its distinctiveness likely made a strong impression. Rampur is a pleasing bottle to own.

Can a single malt be described as creamy? This one certainly can be. Rampur Select offers an incredibly smooth and well-rounded mouthfeel, with a subtle woody note and a hint of sweetness from the ex-bourbon casks. It's elegant, outstanding, and evokes thoughts of top-tier Japanese whiskies. The medium-full body reveals a spectrum of baking spices on the finish. A genuinely world-class spirit, finally accessible to US whisky enthusiasts.

An intense Indian Single Malt Whisky from Rampur Distillery in Uttar Pradesh, produced and bottled in the foothills of the Himalayas, utilizing six-row barley instead of the conventional two-row variety. It begins intensely with notes of apple, pear, caramel, fudge, and subtle hints of melon and citrus; its creamy character then brings these aromas to your palate with fruit and spice, leading to a delicate and rich finish of medium length with floral notes. October 2018 / February 2019 / June 2020 / August 2022

Without question, the most floral whiskey I've ever encountered. Therefore, I purchased a bottle specifically to explore its taste profile with ice, water, club soda, tonic, honey liqueur, Red Bull, cola, and (apologies, Mom) milk. It borders on tasting like brandy (or cognac) due to its fruitiness, which I personally don't favor much, but when mixed, that lingering aftertaste becomes negligible. I strongly suggest trying it, at the very least, even if you don't buy it.