Nantou Taiwanese whisky duo rolls out in Europe

Taiwan-based Nantou Distillery has partnered with Les Whiskies du Monde and Cellar Trends to launch a pair of single malt whisky expressions in Europe.

Nantou Distillery has launched Omar Bourbon Casl (L) and Omar Sherry Cask into Europe

No-age-statement releases Omar Bourbon Cask and Omar Sherry Cask have been matured 100% in their respective cask types before being bottled at 46% abv.

Taiwan Tobacco and Liquor Corporation-owned Nantou Distillery has been producing the line since 2008, with the duo now available in Europe and the UK through Les Whiskies du Monde and Cellar Trends.

Nantou Distillery is located in the mountains of Taiwan and is fed by fresh spring water. Its sub-tropical climate results in fast-maturing whisky.

Its Omar line – which means ‘amber’ in Gaelic – is said to offer an “alternative” to whisky producer Kavalan, which has “dominated” the market as one of only two distilleries in the country.

“Omar whiskies are for whisky explorers as well as connoisseurs of single malt,” said Caroline Pihoue, brand manager for Omar at Cellar Trends.

“The brand brings new options to discover for fans of new-world whisky, as there are only two whisky distilleries in Taiwan.

“We predict strong demand for Omar Sherry Cask in particular, as the brand’s intense flavour qualities have won strong accolades, and it has a competitive price point.

“Omar will be an excellent addition to Cellar Trends’ whisky portfolio, and we are very excited to distribute a brand which is already attracting such considerable interest.”

Omar Bourbon Cask retails at £63 (about US$76) and Omar Sherry Cask at £67 (about US$81). Both products will be available through specialist whisky retailers, online and at premium spirits bars.

Spirits retailer The Whisky Exchange has named the Taiwanese whisky category as one of its trends to watch for 2017 and beyond.