Every so often, a whisky moment comes along that reminds you exactly why this hobby is so special. For me, that moment came at the shop of whiskysite.nl, when a generous customer offered me a dram of Godawan Single Malt 02 Fruit & Spice. It wasn’t planned, it wasn’t expected, and that’s the magic: whisky fans love sharing stories, flavours, and their passion for the spirit. This sense of community is what I adore about the industry, and it felt especially fitting while tasting something as distinctive and exciting as an Indian single malt.
About Godawan
Godawan forms part of the fast-growing Indian whisky renaissance—a movement that has captured global attention for crafting rich, bold, and climate-influenced single malts. Distilled in Rajasthan, one of the hottest and driest regions in India, Godawan’s whiskies mature under extreme desert conditions. Heat accelerates the interaction between spirit and wood, producing dense, flavour-packed profiles that often feel far older than their actual age.
The brand is named after the Great Indian Bustard, or “Godawan,” an endangered bird native to the region. Godawan contributes to conservation efforts that help protect this species, weaving sustainability and cultural heritage into its identity. The whisky itself is crafted using Indian six-row barley and matured in carefully selected casks to highlight vibrant fruit tones and warm spice.
The 02 Fruit & Spice expression aims to balance exactly that—depth of fruit, natural sweetness, layered spice, and an unmistakably Indian flair that sets it apart on the world stage.
Tasting Notes
Stats
- Age: NAS
- ABV: 46% (92 proof)
- Distillery: Godawan
- Chill-filtered: No
- Natural Colour: Yes
Nose
The nose immediately bursts with sweet and spicy aromas, offering an inviting and layered introduction. You’re welcomed by rum-soaked raisins, burnt caramel, and creamy vanilla, all contributing to a warm and dessert-like profile. Then come the fragrant spices: cardamom, nutmeg, and cloves, each lifting the aroma with a touch of exotic complexity.
There’s also a delicate hint of pandan, adding a green, aromatic sweetness not often found in whisky, alongside chocolate-covered orange peel that brings a bittersweet, citrusy edge. The result is an exceptionally complex nose—comforting, rich, and unusually intriguing.
Palate
On the palate, Fruit & Spice lives up to its name. It begins with dried mango slices and vanilla custard, giving a creamy tropical sweetness. A thread of black liquorice adds depth before the spice returns—cardamom and nutmeg, beautifully integrated and warm without overwhelming the experience.
As the dram settles, flavours of rich cacao, fresh red apples, and a whisper of lime zest come through, enhancing the complexity further. It’s a satisfying combination of sweetness, spice, fruit, and a touch of citrus brightness that keeps the palate lively and engaging.
Finish
The finish is medium-long, with the citrus and apple notes shining through most prominently. There’s a pleasant glow of liquorice, honey, and vanilla, but the most surprising characteristic is how gentle it is—almost no tannic bite, making this a remarkably easy and enjoyable sipper that lingers with soft warmth.
Food Pairing
This whisky pairs wonderfully with pandan ice cream, amplifying that unique green, aromatic sweetness found in the nose. It works equally well with banana bread, the tropical notes melding beautifully with ripe banana and warm spices. For something savoury, try it with crispy bacon—the salty crunch contrasts the whisky’s sweetness while highlighting its spice-driven character.
Verdict
Good
This is a unique whisky that showcases why India is a country to watch when it comes to whisky. Packed full of flavour while remaining easily sippable and utterly delicious. Absolutely loving the pandan and citrus notes in this dram.
Bad
It’s hard to get in some countries; in fact, I can’t seem to find it at all in the Netherlands. Which is a shame, as I’d love to pour myself another glass already. The herbal aspect is something you have to love—I know many that do—but it’s not for everyone.
