Review: Paul John Brilliance

Color (5%): Faint hay yellow, very clear. 4/5 

Nose (10%): Lots of untoasted fresh barley. Faint honey. Very light. There is not any discernable smoke compared to other single malts. 5/10

Palate (20%): bready again, light, slightly sour note. Waxy orange peel. 13/20

Finish (10%): lingering medium + alcohol heat, fitting of 46%. Methyl burn is low but not crystal clean. 5/10

Overall impression (30%): For an Asian whiskey, it's not really close to any scotch, but it feels a bit underaged and boring. Not even spicy. no real waves of flavor. I'd be curious to try their peated or heavier-aged whiskeys. Honey wheat bread, lightly toasted with a soft drizzle of apricot honey spread. 19/30

Retry on Ice (25%): Light cocoa pops out on the nose. It actually improves overall. Higher sweetness. Orange peel and green apple. Less crackery bread. 21/25

Total Ranking: 67% Legendary, Amazing, Great, Good, Fair, Average, Tolerable, Swill

Estimated Fair Price: $34

Actual Price: $53

Conclusion: It's exciting but not the best quality for the money. Try something else in the line that is a bit smoother and richer. Amusing to sample once, but I wouldn't care to have a bottle on my shelf at home. 

Fact Sheet:

Distillery Location: John Distillery in Goa, India.

ABV: 46%, 92 proof

Age Statement: 3-5 years in ex-bourbon barrels

Ingredients: Indian 6-row barley

Awards: Gold - Liquid Gold- Jim Murray's Whisky Bible - 2014 & 2017, Gold - Asian Whisky - Wizards of Whisky Awards - 2014