When tasked with conceptualizing a duty-free exclusive for Paul John Whisky, I knew we needed something extraordinary. The result of months of careful planning and collaboration stands before me now at Bengaluru Duty Free— Paul John Single Cask – Madeira Finish, a whisky that represents not just a new release, but a milestone in Indian spirits. As I admire the bottle’s design, I take pride in being part of the team that has brought to life a creation reflecting Bengaluru’s botanical heritage, reminding me of the incredible journey behind this exceptional spirit.
The Evolution of Paul John Single Cask
From its inception in the tropical paradise of Goa, Paul John has been redefining Indian whisky. Now, with this unprecedented single cask release—their first-ever global travel retail exclusive—they’ve pushed the boundaries even further. Working alongside their master distiller to select this particular Madeira cask was an exercise in precision and patience, seeking the perfect vessel to create something truly unique.
The Rarity Factor: Only 228 Bottles Made!
In the world of collectible spirits, numbers tell a powerful story. With only 228 bottles in existence, this expression isn’t just rare—it’s virtually impossible to find, making every single one a precious artefact of Indian whisky history. The decision to make this a Bengaluru Duty Free exclusive wasn’t just a business choice—it was a tribute to the Garden City itself. The extreme scarcity was also about creating something so special that ownership itself becomes part of the story.
Tribute to the Garden City
Taking inspiration from Bengaluru’s reputation as India’s Garden City, we designed every aspect of this release to honour its exclusive home. The packaging, adorned with motifs of Bengaluru’s famous spring blossoms and verdant parks, tells a story of connection between Goa’s tropical warmth and Bengaluru’s natural beauty.
The Mastery Behind Paul John Single Cask Madeira
This unpeated Madeira cask expression promises a luxurious sensory journey; it embodies a unique fusion of flavours that reflect the essence of its origins:
Colour
Dark amber, reflecting the deep, rich nature of this single malt.
Nose
The initial sniff reveals a complexity that speaks to its distinguished origins. Festive aromas of Christmas cake intertwine with unexpected notes of manuka honey and citrus brightness, creating an olfactory experience that demands contemplation.
Palate
At 58% ABV, this is a whisky that commands respect. The Madeira cask influence reveals itself in layers—first with sweet vanilla and dark chocolate, then surprising with an unexpected resinous note that adds compelling complexity. The non-chill filtered nature ensures every drop retains its full, natural character.
Finish
The finishing of each sip brings a creamy richness that coats the palate, with oak notes that remain present long after the glass is empty. It’s a finish that invites reflection and rewards patience.
The Collector’s Gem
For the serious whisky collector, rarity alone makes this release noteworthy. But combined with its historical significance as Paul John’s first global travel retail single cask, its investment potential becomes clear. Each of the 228 bottles represents a piece of Indian whisky history—a testament to how far the category has come and where it’s heading.
The choice to bottle at 58% ABV wasn’t arbitrary—it’s the perfect strength to showcase the whisky’s complex character while maintaining drinkability. The decision to avoid chill filtration preserves the natural esters and oils, resulting in a fuller mouthfeel and richer flavour profile.
A New Chapter in Indian Whisky
This is far more than just a duty-free exclusive—it marks a significant chapter in the evolution of Indian single malt whisky. For those passing through Kempegowda International Airport, owning one of these limited 228 bottles is an invitation to be part of a defining moment in the Indian whisky narrative.
Each bottle stands as a tribute to time-honoured craftsmanship while boldly stepping into the future of premium spirits. It’s a whisky that not only piques the curiosity of enthusiasts but also captivates seasoned collectors—a rare gem that will only become more coveted as these bottles find their way into prized collections around the globe.
Whether you’re drawn to the allure of rare spirits or appreciate the mastery behind their creation, the Paul John Single Cask Madeira delivers something truly extraordinary. This exclusive release, available only at Bengaluru Duty Free, represents one of the rarest Indian single malts ever created.
