Puni Nero Italian Whisky Review (2017)

By Emma Briones

Rating: C+

The first Italian whisky distillery, Puni, has launched their second edition of their limited edition expression, Puni Nero. This new version has a lower alcohol content and less cask maturation.

Puni Nero Limited Edition 2017 has been matured for four years in Pinot Nero casks from Italian wineries in the South Tyrol. This region is a famous wine growing region in Italy and, due to its climate, it is one of the few areas in Italy suited for growing the Pinot Nero grape variety.

According to the distillery, only a handful of casks were selected for this limited edition, that showcases the unique tastes of South Tyrol by combining the region’s long-standing tradition in growing grain as well as grapes.

Puni Nero 2017 has been bottled with natural color at 46% ABV (92º proof). It has not been chill-filtered.

The Whisky
Puni Nero Limited Edition 2017 is copper amber in the glass. On the nose, it is strong and damp. There are some light orange zest notes, but the nose is full of cellar humidity. There are notes of cheese and anchovy, with a slight touch of oak.

On the palate, Puni Nero Limited Edition 2017 changes completely. It is warm, with vanilla notes that are followed by orange zest. A little touch of dark chocolate and black coffee. Nevertheless, it is a flat dram.

The finish is medium and has some light spicy notes.

Puni Nero Limited Edition 2017 is not what one might expect from its story, but there is something missing in this expression. The team at Puni are clearly experimenting, but in this instance this whisky is not ready yet.

The Price
Puni Sole is officially available through the distillery website (that only ships to Italy) and other online shops. It is retailed at €54.