The PUNI Distillery, founded in 2010 and located in the heart of the Venosta Valley in South Tyrol, is Italy's first whisky distillery. Named after the nearby river Puni, the distillery reflects a deep connection with its region. The extraordinary architecture of the distillery, designed by local architect Werner Tscholl, combines traditional elements with modern design, offering a unique visual identity.
PUNI produces various whisky types characterized by different cask maturations and ingredients. A notable whisky is PUNI Gold, which ages for five years in ex-bourbon barrels and features aromas of pepper and mango. PUNI Sole ages for four years in ex-bourbon and ex-sherry casks, offering notes of wild honey, blood oranges, and spicy oak. PUNI Vina is aged for five years in ex-Marsala casks from Sicily, developing aromas of sultanas, cinnamon, and walnuts. Another interesting release is PUNI Alba, which ages for two years in ex-Marsala casks and an additional year in ex-peated whisky barrels, providing a unique flavor profile of dark fruits, peat, and cloves.
The distillery leverages the climatic conditions of the Venosta Valley, characterized by hot summers and cold, snowy winters, to accelerate the maturation of their whiskies. This results in young whiskies with complex and balanced flavor profiles.
PUNI Distillery has quickly made a name for itself in the whisky world, winning numerous awards, including the title of "Best European Whisky" in the Jim Murray Whisky Bible. The distillery also offers tours and tastings, allowing visitors to experience the art of whisky making up close.
