In 2017, Paul John launched their zodiac series of limited release whiskies named and blended to match the characteristic features of the Indian zodiac. The first in this series was the virgin Kanya (Virgo) and meant to be an “earthy, feminine [and] sensuousness” single malt. D’Souza used barrels that were a minimum of seven years old and bottled non-chill filtered it at 50% ABV.
In 2018, Kanya was named the Best Asian Whisky in Jim Murry’s Whisky Bible.
ABV: 50%
This unique, unpasteurized expression from the Goan coast captures a gentle innocence that is accentuated with subtle notes of honeyed fruitiness and a dash of spice.
The elegant Indian equivalent of the immensely attractive Virgo, the sixth sign of the zodiac, Kanya is ruled by Mercury and represents the virgin. This rich amber expression personifies the inherent qualities of the Kanya with its earthy, feminine sensuality.
Its mouthwatering scents of zesty spice and tropical fruit entice you to savor its creamy, butterscotch richness after it was matured for seven years in American white oak barrels. A trace of salt adds just the right amount of saline to the warm, spicy, and toasted oak finish, making it even more memorable.
Perhaps one of the softest Indian whiskies ever to be produced, the Kanya has unusual nuances and a perfectly tempered dryness that accentuate its velvety charm.
Nose:
Ripe peach, apricot, and vanilla infuse a strong malt, accompanied by a subtle citrus note enhanced by manuka honey.
Taste:
Excellent, rich, creamy texture. A delicious, silky, and sweet butterscotch is produced by the oak.
Finish:
The toasted wood is infused with warm spices, and the faintest hint of saltiness guarantees the most agreeable aftertaste.
Balance:
This is one of the softest Indian whiskies ever bottled. It’s a really complex whisky with a huge malt and an exquisitely well-balanced dryness.
