Puni Distillery

History of Puni Distillery

Puni Distillery, the first whisky distillery in Italy, was established in 2010 by Albrecht Ebensperger. Located in the Vinschgau Valley (Val Venosta) in the South Tyrol region of northern Italy, Puni Distillery takes its name from the nearby Puni River. The distillery was founded with the vision of creating high-quality Italian whisky by combining traditional Scottish methods with local ingredients and innovation.

Inception and Early Years

The distillery’s construction began in 2010, and by 2012, it was ready to commence production. Puni’s first distillation took place in February 2012. The modern and distinctive cubic distillery building, designed by architect Werner Tscholl, reflects a blend of tradition and innovation, much like the whisky produced within its walls. The distillery uses locally sourced grains and pure alpine water, which are essential elements in creating its unique whisky.

Innovation and Tradition

Puni Distillery seamlessly blends innovation with traditional whisky-making techniques. They use a combination of malted barley, wheat, and rye in their mash bill, which is somewhat unique compared to the standard single malt production. The distillery also employs both traditional Scottish pot stills and contemporary production methods to create their distinct spirits.

Types of Whisky

Puni Distillery offers a variety of whiskies, each with distinct characteristics:

1. Puni Nova: Aged for three years in American and European oak casks, Puni Nova has a fruity and spicy profile with notes of malt and vanilla.
2. Puni Alba: This whisky is aged for three years in Marsala and ex-Scotch whisky casks, giving it a rich, fruity flavor with hints of honey and dark chocolate.
3. Puni Vina: A limited edition, aged in selected wine casks, resulting in a complex and aromatic whisky with a unique flavor profile.
4. Puni Sole: Aged in first-fill Bourbon barrels and finished in Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, offering a balance of sweetness and spiciness.

Recognition and Impact

Since its inception, Puni Distillery has gained recognition in the international whisky community for its high-quality products and innovative approach. The distillery’s commitment to quality and unique Italian flair has attracted whisky enthusiasts from around the world, solidifying its place in the global whisky market.

Puni Distillery stands as a testament to the possibilities of combining traditional whisky-making techniques with local ingredients and modern innovation. As Italy’s first whisky distillery, Puni has paved the way for the country’s presence in the global whisky industry, offering a range of unique and high-quality whiskies that continue to impress and delight whisky lovers everywhere.

Awards Won by Puni Distillery

Best European Whisky:

• Awarded to Puni Aura in the Jim Murray Whisky Bible.
• Recognized for its exceptional quality as a cask-strength single malt aged in ex-bourbon and Islay whisky casks.
• Limited to 393 bottles and quickly sold out​​.

World Whiskies Awards:

• Puni Sole won Best Italian Single Malt in 2018.
• This award is part of a series recognizing the distillery’s innovative and high-quality whiskies​.

Puni Distillery Tour Information and Experience

Puni Distillery offers guided tours for visitors who are interested in learning about the whisky-making process and experiencing the unique features of Italy’s first whisky distillery.

Guided Tours

Puni Distillery provides a variety of guided tours that allow visitors to explore the distillery, learn about the production process, and taste their renowned whiskies. The tours include:

1. General Distillery Tour:
   • Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
   • Overview of the distillery’s history and production methods
   • Guided walk through the production facilities
   • Insights into the traditional copper pot stills and the maturation process
2. Whisky & Chocolate Tour:
   • Duration: Approximately 60 minutes
   • A unique experience combining whisky tasting with artisanal chocolate
   • Guided exploration of the pairing between different whiskies and chocolates
3. Tasting Sessions:
   • Duration: 45-60 minutes
   • Opportunity to taste various Puni whiskies in the distillery’s tasting cellar
   • Suitable for small groups and whisky enthusiasts

Visitor Centre

The Visitor Centre at Puni Distillery offers a modern and impressive environment where guests can enjoy:

• Whisky Tastings: Sample a range of Puni whiskies while overlooking the distillation equipment.
• Shopping: Purchase Puni whiskies, including limited editions, as well as other merchandise.
• Architectural Tours: Appreciate the unique design of the distillery building, which blends traditional and contemporary elements.

Opening Hours

• October to Pentecost:
  • Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 – 16:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 – 12:30
• May to September:
  • Tuesday to Friday: 10:00 – 17:00
  • Saturday: 10:00 – 12:30

The Visitor Centre is closed on Sundays, Mondays, and public holidays.

Flask & Barrel Review of Puni Distillery

I’ve been on countless distillery tours, but my visit to Puni Distillery in the Vinschgau Valley, South Tyrol, was truly unique. Nestled in the Italian Alps, Puni stands out not just as Italy’s first whisky distillery but also for its innovative spirit and blend of tradition.

Walking into Puni, you’re immediately struck by the stunning architecture – it looks more like an art gallery than a distillery. The tour started with a fascinating history lesson about how the Ebensperger family founded the distillery in 2010. Learning about their journey and the creation of Italy’s first whisky was inspiring.

The highlight was definitely the production tour. Seeing the traditional copper pot stills in action and learning about their slow and meticulous fermentation process was impressive. The guide explained how the local climate, with its hot summers and cold winters, accelerates the maturation process, giving their whisky its distinctive character.

We got to sample several whiskies in the tasting room, which has an amazing view of the distillation equipment. Puni’s whiskies are exceptional – from the fruity and spicy Puni Nova to the rich and complex Puni Alba. My favorite was the Puni Sole, aged in ex-bourbon and Pedro Ximénez sherry casks, with its delightful notes of honey and blood orange.

The staff were friendly and knowledgeable, answering all my questions with enthusiasm. The Visitor Centre was also a great spot to pick up some bottles and merchandise to take home.

Overall, Puni Distillery offers a fantastic tour that combines beautiful scenery, rich history, and, of course, excellent whisky. If you’re a whisky lover like me, it’s definitely worth a visit. I give it a solid 4.7 out of 5. The only downside was that the tour could have been a bit longer to delve deeper into their innovative processes. But hey, that just gives me a reason to go back!

What To Do Nearby Puni Distillery

Unveil Glorenza’s Charm (0 miles): Literally at the distillery’s doorstep lies Glorenza, a medieval town encapsulated by walls and towers. Stroll along narrow streets, marvel at the preserved architecture, and immerse yourself in the town’s magical atmosphere.

Messner Mountain Museum Corones (5.6 miles): Embrace your inner explorer at the Messner Mountain Museum Corones, designed by legendary mountaineer Reinhold Messner. This museum delves into the history of mountaineering, showcasing captivating exhibits of climbing gear, artifacts, and breathtaking photographs of mountain ranges like the Himalayas.

Hike the Ortler Alps (varies in distance): A short drive away, the majestic Ortler Alps beckons with its breathtaking scenery and diverse hiking trails. Choose from leisurely walks to challenging climbs, catering to all skill levels.

Tranquility at Lake Resia (8.7 miles): Escape to the scenic embrace of Lake Resia, nestled amidst towering mountains. This popular spot offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and windsurfing during the summer months. The partially submerged church steeple standing within the lake adds a touch of haunting history, a reminder of a village flooded to create the reservoir.

Bolzano Day Trip (42 miles): Craving a city experience? Bolzano, the capital of South Tyrol, awaits. Explore its historic center, lose yourself in the vibrant Piazza Walther, and be awestruck by the Bolzano Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic architecture.

Frequently Asked Questions

What restaurants are near Puni Distillery?

Flurin – Bar, Restaurant & Suites: This restaurant has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Laubengasse 2, 39020 Glorenza, Italy. Known for its Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, Flurin offers a cozy dining experience with a variety of dishes that emphasize local flavors. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +39 0473 428136.

Pizzeria Restaurant Erika: It has a rating of 4.6 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Via Flora, 39, 39020 Glorenza BZ, Italy. You can reach out to them on their phone at +39 0473 835262 for reservations.

Hotel Post: It has a rating of 4.4 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Via Flora, 15, 39020 Glorenza BZ, Italy. You can reach out to them on their phone at +39 0473 831208 for reservations. This low-key hotel offers a restaurant & a bar, as well as a garden, a sauna & a hot tub.

What hotels are near Puni Distillery?

Belvenu Boutique Hotel: It has a rating of 4.5 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Piazza della Città 9, 39020 Glorenza, Italy. For reservations, you can reach out to them at +39 0473 831244.

Hotel zur Post: This hotel has a rating of 4.7 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Via Flora 15, 39020 Glorenza, Italy. For reservations, you can call them at +39 0473 831208.

Grushof: It has a rating of 4.9 stars on Google Maps. Their address is Via della Fonte 15, 39020 Glorenza, Italy. For reservations, you can contact them at +39 0473 831459.