Indian Whisky Takes a Bold Step Forward with Godawan’s Unique Expressions
The Indian whisky category is expanding rapidly in the US, with exciting new releases hitting the market regularly. One of the most intriguing developments is the launch of Godawan, a single malt whisky from Diageo India that’s taking a bold step forward with its innovative approach to maturation.
Godawan’s unique approach to whisky maturation
Godawan offers two expressions: 01 Rich and Rounded, and 02 Fruit and Spice. Both are made at the Alwar distillery in Rajasthan, using a mash bill of six-row malted barley grown in the region. The whisky matures in an environment that’s vastly different from Scotland’s, with temperatures often reaching 100°F. This results in a high angel’s share, or evaporation rate, and rapid maturation.
The 01 Rich and Rounded whisky is matured in PX sherry casks before being finished in bourbon barrels seasoned with two Indian botanicals, Rasna and Jatamansi. These herbs are used for sensorial purposes, adding a unique twist to the whisky’s flavor profile. The resulting whisky boasts a rich, fruity palate with notes of raisin, sultana, fig, and apricot, followed by mature wood, caramel, and a buttery, baklava-like finish.
The Indian botanicals used in Godawan’s unique maturation process
The 02 Fruit and Spice expression takes a different path, finishing in a cherrywood cask – a type of wood not commonly used in whisky maturation. The result is a whisky with rich fruit and floral notes on the palate, accompanied by a dash of spice and roasted coffee bean on the finish.
The unique cherrywood cask used in Godawan’s 02 Fruit and Spice expression
These whiskies are still relatively new to the market, but you may be able to find them available from online retailers like Drizly, depending on your location. If you’re interested in exploring the Indian whisky category further, excellent expressions from Amrut and Paul John are available for purchase online now.
Explore the world of Indian whisky with Godawan, Amrut, and Paul John
The Future of Indian Whisky
Godawan’s innovative approach to whisky maturation is a bold step forward for the Indian whisky category. With its unique expressions and commitment to using local ingredients, Godawan is poised to make a significant impact on the global whisky scene. Whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or just discovering the world of Indian whisky, Godawan is definitely worth exploring.
Godawan’s unique expressions are a must-try for any whisky enthusiast
