Review: Royal Ranthambore Indian Whisky

In a recent review, we noted that Rampur Indian Whisky was starting to expand their offerings. Introducing Royal Ranthambore. This new whisky is distilled and distributed by Radico Khaitan, which is the new name for what was previously the Rampur Distillery. Royal Ranthambore is unusual in that it is a blended whiskey that includes neutral grain spirits. Their website explains the blend:

This alluring luxurious blended whisky is painstakingly crafted with various bespoke blended malt scotches from different geographical regions. The rare Scotch grain is made from 100% malted barley, carefully blended with oak infused Indian Grain Neutral Spirit to harmonize this royal blend.

To be clear, it isn’t unusual to blend whisky with neutral spirits, but it is typically lower-end whiskies that do it to stretch their aged liquor and create a tolerable spirit at an inexpensive price. What is unusual is to blend whiskey with neutral spirits in an attempt to create a sipping whisky, and that is what we are tasting today. Let’s see how it delivers.

Royal Ranthambore Indian Whisky Review

First things first, how do the neutral spirits play out in the whisky? To be honest, if I didn’t already know, I don’t think I would have guessed this wasn’t 100% malted barley. That stated, it is a gentle whisky. On the nose, honey and heather come first, followed shortly by gentle cereal grains and a light hospital note. On the palate, honey and heather again take the reins, but they are joined by gently sweet melon, melted butter, and a light, artificial vanilla note. Midpalate brings a wisp of smoke that continues into the medium length finish. The mouthfeel includes some nice, oily viscosity.

I think a lot of people will like this whisky. It isn’t overly complex, but it has its moments, and the price isn’t unreasonable. I expect its gentle sweetness and touch of smoke will make it a great choice for new whisky drinkers.

80 proof.

B / $44

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