PRAKAAN
This marks a significant milestone for the Thai single malt whisky industry: Thailand now has its very own single malt whisky brand, produced and bottled domestically, named PRAKAAN. This launch underscores the potential of Thailand's beverage industry on the international stage, through a unique flavor profile that blends Thai wisdom and exceptional local ingredients.
The Origin: The Richness of the Western Forest Complex
The story of PRAKAAN single malt whisky began with the recognition of the exceptional raw materials found in the Western Forest Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that extends into Kamphaeng Phet Province. This pristine forest boasts abundant resources and high-quality water sources, making it ideally suited for producing premium single malt whisky. Consequently, the PRAKAAN brand chose this location for establishing Thailand's first whisky distillery.
Production Process: International Standard Quality
PRAKAAN single malt whisky is meticulously crafted through production processes that adhere to international standards. It begins with distillation using traditional techniques in Copper Pot Stills imported from Scotland. The process also involves strict control over temperature and humidity, followed by maturation in premium oak casks sourced from various countries. This ensures that every drop of PRAKAAN single malt whisky offers an unforgettable experience.
The Meaning of PRAKAAN: Foundations of Value
The brand name PRAKAAN is inspired by the Kamphaeng Prakan, the strong fortress walls of Kamphaeng Phet Province that historically served to protect Thailand's independence for centuries. However, the name PRAKAAN not only signifies strength but also reflects three core values that form the brand's foundation:
- P-Provenance: The critical origin of PRAKAAN single malt whisky is the Western Forest Complex in Kamphaeng Phet Province, recognized by UNESCO. The pure water from this forest is the primary ingredient that creates the unique character of PRAKAAN single malt whisky.
- P-Pride: The strong fortress walls that once safeguarded Thailand's national independence are not merely symbols of past pride. They also represent a spiritual stronghold that nurtures PRAKAAN, Thailand's first single malt whisky, to gain international recognition.
- P-Passion: PRAKAAN single malt whisky's commitment to excellence begins with blending advanced Western production techniques with Thailand's invaluable wisdom and resources. The goal is to produce a premium Thai single malt whisky that gains global recognition under the concept of Irresistible Quest, Unforgettable Taste, reflecting a long journey and a relentless pursuit of exceptional flavor.
The First Series TRIBURA: Three Walls of Flavor
To honor the historical heritage of Kamphaeng Phet, the PRAKAAN brand launched its first single malt whisky series named TRIBURA, meaning Three Walls. This inaugural series comprises three single malt whisky expressions:
- PRAKAAN SELECT CASK: Matured in American ex-Bourbon oak casks, delivering a smooth taste with delightful notes of vanilla and caramel.
- PRAKAAN PEATED MALT: Produced from high-quality barley malt that has been smoked with peat, offering a distinctive smoky aroma intertwined with rich flavors.
- PRAKAAN DOUBLE CASK: Undergoes a two-stage maturation process in American ex-Bourbon oak casks and Spanish ex-Sherry oak casks, resulting in a perfectly complex and harmonious flavor profile with aromatic hints of raisins, chocolate, and subtle spices.
The emergence of PRAKAAN is not just about offering consumers a new choice; it's about ushering in a new era for Thailand's single malt whisky industry and fostering national pride in a world-class beverage produced right here in Thailand.