Amrut "Kurinji" Indian Single Malt Whisky

Amrut “Kurinji” Indian Single Malt Whisky is an elegant and unusual expression from India’s pioneering single-malt distillery, showcasing delicate floral aromatics, tropical fruit, and lively spice. Part of the “Single Malts of India” series, Kurinji is inspired by the mountainous landscapes of southern India and the rare Kurinji flower that blooms only once every twelve years, symbolizing rarity and natural beauty. The whisky is vibrant and aromatic, offering a fresh, grain-forward style that highlights India’s distinctive whisky terroir.

Origins & Craftsmanship
Amrut Distilleries, based in Bengaluru, India, is widely credited with bringing Indian single malt whisky to the global stage. Founded in 1948, the distillery gained international recognition in the early 2000s when its single malts began competing successfully with traditional whisky-producing countries.

The Kurinji release debuted in 2022 as the second whisky in the Single Malts of India series, designed to showcase regional characteristics and lesser-known Indian malt traditions.

This unpeated single malt is distilled from Indian six-row malted barley, which differs from the two-row barley typically used in Scotch production. The higher protein content of six-row barley contributes to a more grain-forward and textural whisky profile, helping define Kurinji’s distinctive character.

The whisky is bottled at 46% ABV, a strength chosen to preserve aromatics and texture while maintaining balance.

The name “Kurinji” references the Neelakurinji flower, which periodically covers the hills of southern India in purple bloom—a poetic metaphor for a whisky that celebrates the region’s natural heritage and rarity. 

Tasting Profile

Nose:
Aromatic and expressive with jasmine, honeysuckle, honey, pear, and citrus peel, complemented by subtle spice and fresh grain character.

Palate:
Soft and vibrant, revealing pear, white grape, tropical fruit, caramel, and ginger, with gentle oak and spice adding structure.

Finish:
Medium-long with lingering vanilla, honey, malt sweetness, and delicate floral spice.

Quick Overview

Cocktail Recipes

While Kurinji is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water, it can also work in light whisky cocktails.

Indian Malt Highball

• 2 oz Amrut Kurinji

• 4 oz chilled soda water

• Lemon twist

Build over ice and garnish with lemon for a crisp and aromatic serve.

Kurinji Old Fashioned

• 2 oz Amrut Kurinji

• ¼ oz honey syrup

• 2 dashes aromatic bitters

Stir with ice and strain over a large cube; garnish with orange peel.