Radico Khaitan adds to Rampur Jugalbandis
India's Radico Khaitan has revealed the newest additions to its Rampur Jugalbandi single malt whisky range: #5 and #6.
The whiskies are produced at Rampur Distillery in the foothills of the Himalayas in India and matured in casks personally selected by the company’s master distiller, Anup Barik. The latest whiskies in the range, #5 and #6, will be available in the UK, the US, Europe, Singapore and global travel retail from October 2024. They will debut at the London Whisky Show this weekend (6-8 September). The range features eight Indian single malt whiskies, each inspired by the ancient musical art form 'Jugalbandi', which translates to ‘entwined twins’ and in music terms, is a duet between two solo musicians and instruments. Jugalbandi #3 and #4 were released in October last year, along with the 2023 edition of Radico Khaitan’s Rampur Select. Barik said: “I am proud to have created these latest limited editions in the Jugalbandi series, using the highest quality Madeira and Tokaji casks while retaining, at their heart, our classic Rampur single malt whisky profile. “We are looking forward to unveiling these two new expressions at The Whisky Show in London.” Jugalbandi #5 is matured first in American Bourbon barrels and then in Tokaji wine casks. This cask combination is said to bring together Bourbon’s fruity and floral notes with the creamy, honey flavours of Tokaji. Its nose offers undertones of caramel, roasted almonds and gingerbread, and the palate offers a ‘creamy texture' with layers of honey, caramel, vanilla and chocolate’. Jugalbandi #6 was matured in Madeira wine casks, which give it a profile ‘interlaced with a medley of fruits' and hints of caramelised pineapple and apricot. Additionally, on the palate, drinkers may find dates, plum and dark chocolate. “There is mysticism about India and our vision is to share the best India has to offer with the world in the beverage alcohol space,” added Sanjeev Banga, president of international business at Radico Khaitan. “Our innovative products are being accepted the world over, exemplifying the rich heritage and exceptional craftsmanship that we practise at Rampur Distillery. We are excited to share Rampur Jugalbandi #5 and #6 with whisky aficionados at The Whisky Show.” Jugalbandi #5 has an ABV of 55.6% while #6 sits at 55.8%. Both whiskies retail for £400 (US$526). Earlier this year, The Spirits Business spoke with Banga on the rise of the Indian single malt, and how it could compete with Scotch in the future.
