Amrut has launched an umbrella brand, ‘Single Malts of India’, to showcase some of the hidden gems of India. The first was named Neidhal and had a limited release of 12,000 bottles worldwide, with 1,200 bottles allocated for India.

The second release, Kurinji, has a worldwide allocation of 16,000 bottles of which 8,100 bottles will be available in India. It is currently available in Bengaluru for Rs 5,999 for a 700-ml bottle (46% ABV).

The inspiration comes from the exuberant Kurinji flowers, nestled in the hills of South India, which blossom once every 12 years, filling the lush greenery of the mountains with a purple shade as far as the eyes can see! Sangam (ancient Tamil) literature has documented the Kurinji in its Agam or love poetry.

On the nose, Kurinji opens with sweet floral wafts of jasmine and honeysuckle. Underneath the sweet fruity, floral goodness there’s a refreshing presence of coriander- and cucumber-infused mineral spring water, and a hint of white pepper.

On the palate, Kurinji single malt whiskey starts with a sweet caramel toffee note. It glides through the palate with a syrupy texture, triggering mini-mine explosions of spice along the way: anise, nutmeg and baking spice.

Some candied ginger transitions the spices into sweetness, while soft comforting vanilla brings these together again. Along with saliva dilution, it smoothens the palate into fruity syrup – slices of peach and pears sprinkled with lime and drizzled with honey.