Amrut is the Missing Link Between Scotland and Kentucky

Recently we had the opportunity to interview Ashok Chokalingam, the Head of Distilling and International Sales for Amrut Distilleries. While we were discussing his journey to Amrut and what the future holds for this award-winning distillery he mentioned a phrase that he commonly uses when describing Amrut. Ashok describes Amrut as the missing link between Scotland and Kentucky and has some solid explanations as to why this is his position.

Similarities to Scotland and Kentucky

The distillation style and mash bill for Amrut is very similar to Scotland. In the United States, the mash bill is very different and uses rye, corn, malted barley, and wheat whereas in Scotland (and in India at Amrut) the mash bill is 100% composed of malted barley. Another similarity between the two countries is the way the spirit is distilled is virtually the same in Scotland as it is in India.

While distillation and mash bill are similar between Amrut and Scotland, the maturation of Amrut’s spirits are more towards Kentucky. In Kentucky and in Bangalore the angel’s share is very high and humidity is also low. Since Bangalore has an elevation of 3,000 feet above sea level, an extreme temperature variation between day and night, and year-round low relative humidity, it’s incredibly similar to Kentucky.

As a result of the weather and location of Amrut’s distillery, the angel’s share for their whiskies is an average of 10-12% per year. The year on year the loss is on the residual quantity of liquid left in the cask. The most commonly used loss percentage for Scotland is 2% per year.

What’s on the horizon for Amrut

With Amrut’s balance of fruit, grain, and wonderfully integrated peat flavors, Ashok has convinced many whisky enthusiasts that he is onto something when he touts that Amrut is the ‘missing link between Scotland and Kentucky”. While they have an impressive portfolio of over two dozen expressions available in 44 countries, one of the most exciting things about Amrut Distilleries is that they continue to release unique and complex spirits year after year.

In 2022, they have at least three new brands planned to be released including an old favorite that is being rebranded. This year will be exciting for both rare and limited-release spirits as well as for the entire portfolio as it continues to grow. As the first Indian distillery to distribute to the global market, many whisky enthusiasts in the United States and beyond are fans of their spirits and eagerly await their new releases.

Amrut in the United States

Many of Amrut’s incredible spirits are available in the United States through Glass Revolution Imports wherever Amrut is sold. Click here to find a retailer near you that carries Amrut so you can purchase a bottle for your own collection, and make sure to sign up for our newsletter and become a Glass Revolution Dram Hunter so you’re always the first to know about exciting new releases, exclusive tastings, and more!