In line with the corporate, Chivas Regal is “shaking up the Scotch whisky class within the U.S.” with the launch of a brand new product: Chivas Regal XV. Whereas commonplace Chivas is 12 years previous, this one is 15. So, you realize, shaking issues up.
All Chivas bottlings are blends which are constructed round Strathisla single malt, the oldest working distillery in Speyside. Chivas XV is aged in French oak and “selectively completed in Grande Champagne Cognac casks,” and, per the corporate, it’s “inspired to be loved in a high-energy, celebratory second, proving {that a} severe whisky doesn’t want a severe setting.”
I, sadly, tasted this whisky at my desk, alone. Right here’s what I considered it.
As with many a mainstream blended Scotch, Chivas 15 arrives with a barely-there nostril, presenting traditional aromas of sesame, almond sandies, sandalwood, and a slight whiff of furnishings polish. (Bizarrely (or not), I used virtually similar language about that furnishings polish notice in my evaluate of Chivas 12.) Creamy and effusive on the palate, the sunshine lemon notes endemic to Chivas grow to be extra outstanding, sharpened up via notes of pencil lead and rosemary, earlier than settling right into a groove that evokes bittersweet chocolate, burnt caramel, and lingering, overcooked almond cookies. As for these Cognac casks — any affect they could have had is tough to detect.
All informed, for those who’re a fan of Chivas 12, Chivas 15 will introduce few surprises. For higher or for worse.
80 proof.
B+ / $50 / chivas.com [BUY IT NOW FROM CASKERS]
Chivas Regal XV 15 Years Outdated
$50
