India isn’t the first place most whiskey enthusiasts think of when searching for exceptional single malts, but Paul John is steadily changing that perception. Hailing from Goa, this distillery has become a global ambassador for Indian whisky. Paul John BOLD is a peated single malt that showcases the brand’s flair for combining tradition with a distinctly Indian touch.

Using six-row Indian barley grown in the foothills of the Himalayas and aged in the warm, humid Goan climate, BOLD embodies the spirit of experimentation and mastery. The result? A whisky that delivers the richness of peat without overwhelming the subtler nuances. For those of us who appreciate smoky whiskies but want a break from Islay’s ocean spray, this one feels like stepping into uncharted territory.

• ABV: 46%
• Average Retail Price: $75 US
• Peated Non Chill-filtered
• Indian Single Malt Whisky
• Mash Bill: 100% Malted Barley
• Cask: First-fill ex-Bourbon
• Age: At least 6 years (6-8)
• Paul John Whisky Official Website

Tasting Notes for Paul John BOLD

Appearance
In the glass, Paul John BOLD shines with a golden copper glow. Swirl it, and you’ll see slow, thick legs.

Nose
The first sniff immediately takes you by surprise—it’s quite intense. Earthy peat smoke, like a distant bonfire, pause and take another whiff and more layers emerge. Sweet vanilla, lavender, honey (the manuka honey comes through) mingling with warm spices like cinnamon and clove. There are some dried mangoes, an undertone of toasted nuts, and light oak tannin.

Palate
As promised, the peat makes a bold entrance, but it doesn’t overpower. Instead, it’s balanced by waves of dark chocolate, roasted coffee beans, and sweet malt. The texture is creamy, coating your palate with a velvety richness. Orchard fruits with a tropical touch and subtle oak evolve the palate. Hints of roasted nuts, dry molasses, and peaty soot mingle with a touch of copper.

Finish
Long and warming, the finish lingers with intense smoky embers, a touch of spice, pepper, ginger, and menthol that fades gracefully. It leaves you with a dry, slightly tannic sensation.

Overall Impression

Paul John BOLD is unique and busy with flavor, keeps your senses sharp, there is plenty of farminess, funky notes, and fruity bouquets with a light sweetness that complements its depth. It’s a bit hot and sharp on the nose and palate and peat-forward. This will appeal to fans of smoky malts, but its nuanced layers ensure it doesn’t feel one-dimensional. 

Personally, this dram did not excite me much; I give it a 6/10. 

Have you ventured into Paul John Whiskeys? If you’ve tried Paul John BOLD, I’d love to hear your take on it, drop your thoughts in the comments.