Kavalan launches Lán whisky

Taiwanese whisky producer Kavalan has added a floral-inspired single malt to its core range, named Lán.

Lán is the distillery's first tribute to its birthplace Yilan County, in northeastern Taiwan. Lán is the Mandarin name for 'orchid' and appears in both the single malt and county names. Created for selected markets worldwide, the expression is offered at 43% ABV and was launched in Asia at the Hong Kong Whisky Festival, Korea Bar and the Spirits Show. The expression made its debut in Europe at Whisky Live Paris in September. The first phase of the launch will include markets across the EU, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong and Canada. A second wave will soon follow, bringing Lán to all other countries where Kavalan is currently exported. Kavalan's CEO, Y.T. Lee, shared his inspiration for the floral whisky, which draws from the 'King Car Peach' orchid, exclusively cultivated by Kavalan’s parent company, King Car. “Our Port-aged Lán whisky captures the delicate floral aromas of the King Car Peach orchid”, said Lee. “It offers a sophisticated blend of vanilla and roasted nuts, enriched by our signature STR (shaved, toasted, re-charred) technique using Vinho wine casks, resulting in a smooth, fruity profile with layers of caramel sweetness." The STR technique – developed by Dr Jim Swan – allows for deep penetration into oak casks, which is said to unlock the hidden flavours within. Since 1988, King Car Group has been a leader in orchid research and cultivating new varieties. This expertise extended to the creation of Lán whisky. At this year's The Spirits Business Awards, Kavalan is nominated in the Whisky/Whiskey Brand of The Year category.