Kavalan Distillery has launched its first whisky, LÁN, in tribute to its roots in Yilan County, Taiwan, aiming to delight whisky lovers globally.
Kavalan Distillery, renowned for its innovative approaches to whisky production, has introduced LÁN, a new expression of whisky inspired by the distillery’s birthplace, Yilan County. The product, named after the Mandarin word for “orchid,” is now available for export and has already made a splash at notable whisky events in Asia, including Whisky Live in Hong Kong and the Korea Bar and Spirits Show.
Following its successful debut in Asia, LÁN will soon be showcased in Europe at Whisky Live Paris, scheduled for September. The first phase of the launch targets a range of markets, including the EU, Cambodia, Thailand, the Philippines, Malaysia, Hong Kong, and Canada. A subsequent wave of distribution will expand availability to additional countries where Kavalan products are currently exported, ensuring that whisky enthusiasts worldwide can enjoy this unique offering.
Kavalan’s CEO, Mr. Y. T. Lee, explained the inspiration behind LÁN, which derives its floral notes from the award-winning King Car Peach orchid, cultivated exclusively by Kavalan’s parent company, King Car. “Our port-aged LÁN Whisky captures the delicate floral aromas of the King Car Peach orchid,” Mr. Lee noted. He described the whisky as a sophisticated blend of vanilla and roasted nuts, enhanced by Kavalan’s signature STR (shaving, toasting, and recharring) technique, which utilises Vinho wine casks to create a smooth, fruity profile enriched with layers of caramel sweetness.
The STR method allows for deeper penetration into the oak casks, unlocking the whisky’s hidden flavours. This innovative approach has previously garnered recognition, with Kavalan’s Solist Vinho Barrique winning the “World’s Best Single Malt” at the World Whiskies Awards in 2015, highlighting the distillery’s commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Since its founding in 2005, Kavalan has gained a reputation for excellence, and LÁN represents another significant milestone in its journey of innovation. The distillery’s parent company, King Car Group, has been a leader in orchid research since 1988, meticulously cultivating new varieties. This expertise is reflected in the creation of LÁN Whisky, which blends traditional whisky-making with a unique floral influence.
Tasting notes reveal that LÁN Whisky features captivating aromas of orchids, complemented by hints of rose, jasmine, and peony. The palate delivers refreshing floral and fruity notes, intertwined with creamy and chocolate tones, leading to a lingering nutty and cinnamon finish that evokes the essence of a serene forest.
For more information about LÁN Whisky and its global launch, interested consumers can visit Kavalan’s official website or follow them on social media platforms like Instagram.
Kavalan Distillery’s commitment to innovation and quality continues to position it at the forefront of the whisky industry, with LÁN set to be a celebrated addition to its growing portfolio.
