Chivas Regal 12 Year Old is a classic Scotch whisky. It is celebrated for its smooth, well-rounded character and rich blend of malt and grain whiskies.
The Chivas Regal brand has roots stretching back to the early 19th century, when brothers James and John Chivas began blending whiskies to create a smoother, more balanced drink.
Their dedication to quality led to the birth of Chivas Regal, a premium blended Scotch that quickly gained a reputation for its smoothness and subtle complexity.
The 12 Year Old expression is one of the brand’s most iconic releases and is often seen as a quintessential entry point into the Chivas range.
Chivas Regal 12 is a blend of both single malt and grain whiskies, each aged for at least 12 years. It is crafted at the Strathisla Distillery in Speyside, one of the oldest working distilleries in the Highlands.
The core of Chivas 12 comes from Strathisla’s single malt, known for its smooth, fruity, and lightly nutty character. The blending process is a careful art: the master blender selects whiskies that complement each other, creating a harmonious balance of flavours.
Tasting Notes
The nose is both inviting and complex, with an initial wave of orchard fruits like ripe apples and pears, plus a touch of honeyed sweetness. Subtle hints of vanilla and caramel emerge, balanced by a soft nuttiness and floral notes, likely developed during the ageing process. A touch of dried herbs and a hint of smoke add depth, although the smokiness is restrained, allowing the fruity notes to shine.
On the palate, Chivas Regal 12 is remarkably smooth and rounded, with a medium body and a rich texture. The initial flavours are sweet and fruity, mirroring the nose with notes of ripe apples, pears, and a touch of citrus zest. Layers of honey, vanilla, and butterscotch add a delightful sweetness, balanced by deeper notes of roasted nuts, malt, and gentle spices like cinnamon and ginger. A faint smokiness lingers in the background, adding depth without overwhelming the more delicate flavours.
The finish is long, warm, and slightly dry, with lingering hints of honey, vanilla, and gentle spice that gradually fades, leaving a touch of oak and sweetness. The balance of flavours in the finish showcases the craftsmanship of the blend, offering a satisfying and memorable end to each sip.
