Goa Indian Whisky Ratafia Champenois Cask T-073
Indian whisky? This is no longer an insider tip. But when a whisky from Goa first matures for four years in bourbon barrels under tropical heat and then rests for another two years in a fine Ratafia Champenois barrel in France, things get exciting!
Tasting Notes
Nose
You'll notice it from the very first sniff: This is not about standard notes! A slightly musty red fruit note starts things off - a bit like dried cherries stored in an old wooden box. But then exciting contrasts come into play: fresh leather mixes with brown sugar, joined by a clear orange note. A fragrance that is both exotic and familiar at the same time.
Palate
Velvety and flattering! This whisky is a real charmer - sweet but not sticky, fruity but not overloaded. Vanilla and ripe fruit dance on the tongue, while a hint of leather provides an exciting depth. The sweetness is almost reminiscent of sugar syrup, but thanks to the fine spice, everything remains beautifully balanced.
Finish
The finish of the Goa Indian Whisky has a gentle, almost creamy flavour with a hint of strawberries. Woody nuances ensure a successful finish - soft, but with enough character.
Thoughts
Marcel 79/100
This whisky is a true delight for anyone who enjoys sweet and velvety flavors without slipping into dullness. The unusual combination of tropical maturation and French Ratafia cask aging gives it a charming depth that’s a lot of fun – perfect for relaxed evenings with friends.
Sascha 78/100
A well-balanced whisky that impresses with its harmonious structure, balancing fruit, sweetness, and subtle spice. The maturation in both bourbon and Ratafia Champenois casks creates an intriguing interplay of aromas, though the finish could occasionally benefit from a bit more precision.
Value for Money: Fair
Discover our value for money winnersThis product was kindly provided to us by Champagne Dumangin J. Fils. This does not influence our rating. No payments or other benefits were received in exchange for this provision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the tropical maturation in Goa influence the whisky’s flavor?
The tropical heat in Goa accelerates maturation in the bourbon casks and intensifies the aromas. This results in a whisky with deeper fruitiness and spice, setting it apart from whiskies matured in cooler climates.
What makes the finishing in the Ratafia Champenois cask special?
The two-year finishing period in French Ratafia Champenois casks adds extra complexity to the whisky. The cask imparts sweet, fruity, and lightly spicy notes, giving the whisky an unusual depth and elegance.
How does this whisky differ from classic Indian whiskies?
Compared to classic Indian whiskies, this one stands out due to its combination of tropical primary maturation and French cask finishing. This blend delivers a balanced profile with exotic fruit aromas, fine spice, and a velvety texture.