Amrut Fusion XI

Amrut turns the volume up to 11 for this new deluxe version of its flagship Fusion single malt. Following last year’s X edition marking the 10th anniversary of the product that put India on the whisky world map, the XI draws on stocks ranging from seven to 11 years of age. There’s a veritable thali’s worth of cask types too, with the oldest whisky peated and matured in a port pipe. That variety makes for a complex whisky. While the X was marked by flavors of orange, the nose on the XI combines unripened mango, sultanas, chocolate nibs and almond paste. The flavors start soft in the mouth and progress to gentle pepper, orange rind, tamarind and dark maple syrup. The finish would challenge the length a Kathakali dance show - dry notes of cacao and tobacco mark the main act, followed eventually by a milk chocolate encore. This is a beautiful celebration of Amrut that is well worth trying if you get the opportunity. Just handle the flask with care — most of the ones made for the US were damaged before they could be filled.

Vatting of 7, 8, 9, and 11 year Peated and unpeated whiskies aged in a combination of bourbon and port casks. Fantastic stuff. Nose: Smoke, Salted Caramel, Raisins, Butterscotch, Dark Chocolate, Dates, Salted Cod, Luxardo Cherries, Mackerels, Blueberries, Raspberries Palate: Dark Chocolate, Raisins, Smoke, Treacle, Hazlenuts, Almonds, Blackberries, Prunes, Honey, Dates, Guava, Sultanas, Pineapples Finish: Treacle, Mackerels, Honey, Raisins, Dark Chocolate, Morello Cherries, Blackberries, Dates, White Chocolate, Marshmallows, Marzipan