5 of the Best Asian-Made Spirits to Drink Now
Get a taste of Asia at home with these exquisite tipples, available on TheTatlerBar.com
Due to the unfortunate challenges of Covid-19 the world is currently facing, most of us are restricted from travelling and enjoying the simple pleasures of life. For most imbibers, it means not being able to go on holidays across the region to be able to try out Asian distilleries' various spirits.
Sadly, it doesn't seem like we'll be able to travel anytime soon. While we patiently hunker down in Singapore, why not let your palate travel first with these Tatler-recommended bottlings curated just for you. These are, of course, available on our e-commerce platform TheTatlerBar.com, where you'll also find a bevy of Asian spirits to try.
Amrut Fusion Single Malt
India
This top-tier whisky from Amrut Distilleries is a blend of 75 per cent locally grown Indian barley and 25 per cent Scottish peated barley. It entices the drinker with its oaky and slightly smoky scent that opens up to deliver a creamy vanilla taste interspersed with sherry, fruits and dark chocolate. Ends with a delightfully warm finish and lingering notes of sweet marmalade and spices.
Rampur PX Sherry Finish
India
The true definition of Indian whisky, this single malt is made with 100 per cent Indian malted barley which has been distilled and aged in the Rampur region, located at the base of the Himalayan mountains. What makes it extra special? The new-make spirit is first stored in ex-bourbon casks from Kentucky, then further matured in Pedro Ximénez casks for additional sweet, spicy and woody characters. Ideal for drinkers who are looking for strong and rich flavours, this whisky also has caramelised notes that deepen with luscious layers of spices, vanilla and honey.
Kavalan Solist Sherry Cask
Taiwan
This single cask is celebrated and enjoyed all over the world and it's evident in the many accolades it has won. These include the Best Rest of the World Single Malt Whisky at the World Whiskies Awards 2012 and the Double Gold Medal at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition 2020.
It's special indeed as the whisky is made using pristine water sourced from the Xueshan mountains and matured in top-quality Spanish Oloroso sherry casks. This ensures it delivers clean yet complex flavours on the palate, followed by hints of dried fruits, nuttiness, spices and vanilla.
Nikka Tailored
Japan
This offering is a blend of two malts from Nikka's two top distilleries— Yoichi and Miyagiko— and is the epitome of Japanese craftsmanship and expertise. It easily entices the drinker with its beautiful aroma of fresh nectarine, dried apricot and a touch of citrus and cocoa. Once it lingers on the palate, it reveals complex flavours or orange marmalade and bitter chocolate that are enriched with a sweet and buttery custard texture.
Hakugakusen Tokusen Junmai Daiginjo
Japan
Take a break from whiskies and try this sake special instead, made with premium Japanese rice and brewed near the mountain areas of Fukui Prefecture, Japan. It offers fruity and floral aromas that range from white peach apple, melon and white flowers and these culminate into a delicate and extremely smooth finish.