Paul John Unveils ‘Ego’ from the Alter-Ego Single Cask Series

Paul John has once again set the bar high with their latest release, “Ego,” from the coveted Alter-Ego Single Cask Series. Announced on August 20, this new expression, developed in collaboration with the Single Malt Amateur Club (SMAC), is a testament to the distillery’s dedication to crafting exquisite and rare whiskies. With only 120 bottles available, this release is as elusive as it is exceptional—a collector’s dream and a connoisseur’s delight.

The Craft Behind the Cask

Paul John is no stranger to the art of whisky-making, having built a reputation on their ability to blend tradition with contemporary innovation. But ‘Ego’ is more than just another whisky; it’s a reflection of Paul John’s commitment to creating a single cask experience that is as personal as it is refined. Distilled in September 2017 and matured in an ex-bourbon cask, this unpeated single malt stands at a robust 50% ABV, offering a complex profile that showcases the craftsmanship of the Master Distiller.

The whisky’s journey from cask to bottle is a tale of Indian craftsmanship at its finest. Harvested from six-row barley grown in the fertile lands of Rajasthan, Haryana, and the foothills of the Himalayas, the grain is distilled in the sultry climate of Goa, which lends the whisky its distinctive character. The result is a golden liquid that captures the very essence of its origins—vibrant, rich, and full of life.

On the nose, “Ego” is a sensory delight, with the scent of an orchid garden intermingling with the earthiness of wet wood and the sweetness of ripe melons. It’s a fragrance so enchanting, one might even consider bottling it as a signature perfume. The first sip brings a wave of creamy fruits and citrus, followed by a deepening complexity as umami notes emerge, balanced by hints of mineral salts, herbal bitters, and toffee.

The Philosophy of Alter-Ego

“Ego” is more than just a name; it’s a statement. Following the release of “Alter” in October 2022, this second instalment in the Alter-Ego series continues to explore the duality inherent in the whisky-making process. Paul P. John, Chairman of John Distilleries, described the release as a celebration of collaboration and personalisation, where whisky lovers are invited to be a part of something truly special. “This release, shaped by us and our enthusiasts, is a testament to our collective achievement,” John remarked.

The Alter-Ego series isn’t just about whisky; it’s about creating a bespoke experience. The Single Cask program at Paul John invites enthusiasts to handpick their cask at the Goa distillery, overseeing every step of the whisky’s journey from maturation to bottling. It’s an opportunity to own a unique piece of whisky history, with the added benefit of knowing that the value of such rare whiskies continues to appreciate over time.

SMAC Elevating the Whisky Experience

For Hemanth Rao, the Founder of SMAC, the release of ‘Ego’ represents one of their most challenging yet rewarding projects to date. SMAC has been instrumental in bringing together a community of whisky enthusiasts in India, and this collaboration with Paul John is a reflection of their dedication to curating exclusive experiences. “Alter-Ego has been one of our most challenging releases to date in terms of exclusive single cask whiskies. Every detail has been meticulously evaluated,” Rao said, highlighting the careful planning that went into selecting the cask, designing the label, and perfecting the packaging.

The exclusivity of this release is not just in its limited quantity but also in its distribution. Available only in Goa and priced at INR 8,500, “Ego” is a whisky that demands both attention and appreciation.

A Toast to the Future

As the world of whisky continues to evolve, Paul John remains at the forefront of innovation, pushing the boundaries of what Indian single malt can be. With “Ego,” they have once again demonstrated that they are not just makers of whisky but creators of experiences, inviting enthusiasts to embark on a journey that is as rich and layered as the spirit itself.

In a landscape where the rare and unique are increasingly prized, “Ego” stands as a shining example of the craftsmanship, collaboration, and passion that define Paul John’s Single Cask program. It’s not just a whisky—it’s a narrative in a bottle, waiting to be discovered by those with the palate and the passion to appreciate it. So, here’s to “Ego,” a whisky that, much like its name, is destined to leave a lasting impression.