Paul John Classic Select Cask is an Indian single malt whisky produced by John Distilleries in Goa. It matured in American ex-bourbon barrels and is bottled at cask strength 55.2% ABV without chill filtration. The whisky is made from six-row barley grown in the foothills of the Himalayas. It typically retails for about $110.
The palate is silky and rich, initially dominated by notes of fresh, arboreal honey, with and without the waxy comb. A subtle clove-studded-orange note arrives on the mid-palate, complemented by ground cinnamon and a touch of herbal tea.
An odd sweetness seems almost like vanilla cake-icing, the Portuguese influence emerges in barbecue spices mixed with Asian five-spices. This is a strong whisky and a close whiff tickles the nose. Classic grassiness and dried dusty grain yield to an almost chalky mouthfeel that quickly disappears into slipperiness.
Aromas of stewed fruit, bran muffins, and apple peel greet the nose, with hints of chocolate and grilled bacon fat. At cask strength, it’s a warming dram with apple pie, cinnamon, honey, and chocolate.
