Paul John Kanya

The newest expression from the Indian John Distilleries is the Paul John Kanya, a 7 year old malt of which only 1500 bottles were released. Kanya is the Indian version of Virgo from the Zodiac. It is said that Indians born under Kanya are patient, precise and observing. Jim Murray awarded this malt no less than 96 points… but who cares about Jim? Let’s taste.

The nose is oriental and floral. I get some parma violets, joined by some game. Quite a bit of cocoa kicks in and something that reminds me of orange liqueur. White wine surfaces, which is somewhat unexpected. After a few moments of air it turns very fruity with even some tropical note. Lovely and very aromatic.

The body is fine and the arrival soft and accessible. Immediately sweet notes appear as if from sugared orange peel, toffee and dark honey. I get some latte with foam on top and a nice spiciness. Chocolate with caramel filling appears. Barley sugar. It all works like a charm to offer a lovely, creamy malt on the palate.

The finish is medium long, clearn, a touch drying, but mostly very sweet.

Well, it comes as no surprise that this was awarded the title ‘Best Asian Single Malt’. But it will set you back some 200 EUR – ouch!