Chivas Regal 18 Years | Whisky Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Scotland
Type: Blended Whisky
Distillation and Maturation Process: A blend of column still unmalted grain whisky and single malt whisky from several distilleries, including a significant contribution from Strathisla distillery in the Highlands. The whisky is aged for 18 years.
Age Statement: 18 years
ABV: 40%
Price: Lower 60s (currency not specified)
Color and Clarity: Not explicitly described, but the whisky is implied to have a rich and inviting appearance.
Bottle Design: Described as a "wonderful massive bulgy bottle" with a high-quality cork, indicating a premium packaging design.

Balance of Flavors: A rich and full-bodied whisky with a balance between sweetness, spiciness, and oakiness.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its full, fruity, and aromatic bouquet with caramel, maltiness, and dark sherry notes. The flavor profile includes sweet, juicy chocolate, spiciness, a hint of grain, and a more friendly oakiness compared to past iterations.
Comparison: Considered a premium upgrade to the Chivas Regal 12 Years Old, with a richer and more complex flavor profile.

Strathisla Distillery: Highlighted as the picturesque and historical home of Chivas, contributing significantly to the blend.
Chivas Bottling Plant: A visit to the Chivas bottling plant in Paisley, close to Glasgow, is mentioned, showcasing the massive production scale of Chivas Regal.
Seagram's and Pernod Ricard: An anecdote about the Chivas and Glenlivet group's history with Seagram's and its acquisition by Pernod Ricard, leading to Alexander Ricard's rise from intern to CEO.

Scottish Heritage: Chivas Regal's status as a flagship of the Scottish whisky industry and its deep roots in Scotland's distilling tradition are emphasized.
Global Recognition: Once the second most sold blended whisky worldwide, Chivas Regal's global fame and historical significance are acknowledged.

"This is really a premium to the 12 year old. This is really, really excellent."
"If you like the 12 year old, you should have a bottle of this one as well for Sundays."

Chivas Regal 18 Years Old is a premium blended Scotch whisky with a rich and complex flavor profile, aged for 18 years.
It features a blend of grain and single malt whiskies, with a significant contribution from the Strathisla distillery.
The whisky offers a full-bodied experience with notes of caramel, malt, dark sherry, chocolate, and a friendly oakiness.
Anecdotes about the distillery, the bottling plant, and the brand's history with Seagram's and Pernod Ricard add depth to its story.
Considered a superior choice to the Chivas Regal 12 Years Old, it is recommended for those who appreciate a more intricate and luxurious whisky experience.

For the Whisky Connoisseur: The rich history, complex blending process, and premium quality make it a must-try.
For the Casual Drinker: Its smoothness and balanced flavor profile make it accessible, especially for special occasions.
For the Collector: The story behind the brand and the whisky's significance in the Scotch whisky industry add value to any collection.