Bhakta 2012 Ocean King Distillers Armagnac Cask Finished Single Malt, 56.9%

Bhakta Spirits founder Raj Bhakta dabbles in many different styles of whisky and other spirits, but this marks his first Indian single malt. It was finished for 4 months in the brand’s 1982 armagnac casks, and there’s so much to parse out. The nose is fruity yet earthy, calling to mind dried herbs and Twizzlers. The palate is a complex marvel, combining campfire smoke with charcoal, heaps of baking spice, black pepper, and peaches. The lengthy finish keeps the spice and smoke going, and is an absolute delight.