Origin: Trentino Alto Adige (Italy)
Type: Italian Malt Whisky
Strength: 56.2%ABV
Ageing casks: Ex-Bourbon, ex-Islay
Chillfiltered: No
Added coloring: No
Owner: Puni (Ebensperger family)
Average price: € 98.00
Official website: www.puni.com
Vote: 84/100
We return to the little architectural jewel that is the Puni distillery, located in the heart of the Upper Vinschgau.
Operational for a few years now, Puni is starting to release its first (more or less) declared vintages, while those with a longer wait are left to rest in the former World War II bunkers.
When we talked about Alba, we noted that the prices of these bottlings are quite high compared to other distilleries, especially if you look at Scotland, but understandable given the company’s youth and the particular care taken in choosing the casks used. This bottle is no exception either, with the 393 bottles amply justifying its price.
I’ve noted with pleasure the fervent (and polite) promotional activity from the distillery, aimed at making its products known through tastings and ample willingness to dialogue with enthusiasts, as at the last Whisky Revolution Festival (where this bottle was the subject of a collective tasting) and the Milano Whisky Festival: I thank them, in this regard, for the sample granted to me on this last occasion.
I’m not interested in formal defences of Italian style, a product is good when it’s well done at any latitude, but it’s certainly worth at least spreading the word about an activity (for now) unique in our country that brings its own personality to the world of whisky.
This bottling spent 2 years in ex-Bourbon casks and 4 in ex-Islay casks (whose, we do not know).
Tasting notes
Light gold in the glass, with some coppery reflections.
On the nose, the island smokiness is delicate but very present, with a distinct sweet note of caramel and red fruit, together with hazelnuts and honey. Gourmand.
On the palate, the sweetness prevails, again of hazelnuts, red and candied fruit, honey and butter. Peat underpins this cake, which is more ashy and medicinal than on the nose, with the alcoholic sting enhancing without covering, prompting a sprinkling of chilli pepper and cloves. Biscuit and Ovaltine also peep through. An elegant but not pandering taste.
The finish is smoky and medicinal, with spices and red apples, moderately long.
Interesting malt, still with some smears due to its youth, but already with a clear identity and good evolution.