Indri Dru Cask Strength

Dru Cask Strength is an Indian single malt from INDRI, made in Haryana and bottled at 58% ABV. That is cask strength, meaning it hasn't been cut back with water to a standard 40–46%. Single malts from India's warm climate usually mature quickly. They tend to take on deep oak, toasted spice and dried-fruit character in less time than a cooler-climate malt would. Expect a malty, full-bodied dram with plenty of wood influence, though the bottle itself is the final word on its exact profile. At this strength, a first pour is best done neat in a Glencairn. The tulip shape concentrates the aroma and lets you nose it without being hit by alcohol vapor. Take a small sip first. Then add water a few drops at a time, using a spoon or pipette, and taste again after each addition. Water usually loosens the tighter, more grain-driven notes and brings out sweeter fruit, vanilla and baking-spice flavors in a malt like this. It is a quick way to find the dilution you like, somewhere between the bottle strength and roughly 45% ABV. Ice is a weaker choice for a first taste, because it numbs the palate and mutes the aromatics. If you prefer a chilled pour, one large cube in a rocks glass melts slowly and does less damage. The high proof also helps in cocktails, because the whisky's flavor holds up against sugar, bitters, citrus and ice. An Old Fashioned is a natural fit. Use a small measure of rich demerara syrup and two dashes of Angostura, and the malt's own sweetness and oak will carry the drink. A Manhattan with sweet vermouth works too, though a drier-leaning vermouth and an orange peel keep it from turning heavy. In a Whiskey Sour, the strength lets you shake with plenty of ice and still get a drink with real whisky character. For a Highball, pour a modest measure over ice and top with cold soda in roughly a 1:3 ratio. That gives a long, dry, malt-forward drink that suits warm weather. For stirred drinks, use less spirit than the recipe calls for or stir a little longer, since 58% ABV adds more alcohol per ounce than a standard 40–43% bottle. Bottles like this keep well when stored upright, away from heat and direct light. After opening, finish the bottle within a reasonable time to preserve the aromatics.