Chivas Regal Extra Blended Scotch Whisky Review
let’s begin
The Chivas Regal brand started in the same way that many Scotch brands did, in a grocery store in the 1800s.
They were hugely successful at the time and in 1846 they were given a royal warrant to provide goods to the Queen herself.
From this grocery store, the Chivas family sold their own Whisky, and in the 1850s, James Chivas began to blend his own drams, in order to entice more customers to purchase their goods.
This was popular in Scotland at the time, and other brands such as Johnny Walker and Ballantine’s.
The brand took off and became massively popular all over the nation. Decades later it was taken to America and garnered a huge following across the pond as well.
As the brand grew, it needed somewhere to put down roots, and in 1949, Chivas Brothers bought Strathisla Distillery, the oldest working distillery in the Highlands, having been founded in 1786.
Strathisla is based in the Speyside region of Scotland and is where Chivas create the main part of their blend.
Today the brand is owned by PernodRicard, and they continue to find success across the world.
They are innovative and fresh, releasing new blends that are full of character and charm.
Their Chivas Regal Extra is a fine example of what they do. This expression features malts matured in oloroso sherry casks and has won numerous awards, including a gold medal at the 2016 International Wine and Spirits Competition and a gold medal at the 2015 San Francisco World Spirits Competiton.
The nose opens with lots of rich sherry notes. It is like a Christmas cake packed with dried fruit and spices.
Raisins, apricots and dates all spring out alongside a healthy dose of cinnamon and nutmeg warmth.
There are also lots of peach and melon, which add a refreshing zest to the chewier notes.
It rounds off with some soft vanilla tones and a hint of milk chocolate.
The palate is wonderfully sweet, brimming with sweet nuts and more fruit. Pecans and hazelnuts take the main stage, with a caramel glaze and more raisins.
These melt into one another and create a smooth and soft mouth feel.
More cinnamon comes in with a hint of warmth and a dash of oak wood adds some depth to the overall flavour.
The finish is strong and smooth, with lots of vanilla and cinnamon.
Bottle cost: £35.45
You can watch my YouTube review below:
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Greg
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