Chivas Regal is understood for its steady of dependable scotch whiskies, together with the ever present Chivas 12 in addition to different age-statement expressions, like Chivas 18 and Chivas 25. However the model has been placing collectively an fascinating assortment in recent times. Chivas Regal Mizunara finishes a portion of the mix in Japanese Mizunara oak casks, and Chivas Additional 13 is a sequence of releases that options an additional cask — like Olorosso sherry or tequila — and an additional 12 months of ageing.
Now right here’s Chivas XV, a blended scotch that was created by Chivas Regal’s Director of Mixing Sandy Hyslop and his staff. After a number of years abroad, it’s now out there within the U.S. market. Chivas XV is aged for at least 15 years in French oak earlier than a portion of the liquid is completed in Grande Champagne Cognac casks. It’s a everlasting version to the Chivas vary, and 750 mL bottles can be found for an inexpensive $49.99.
Chivas XV is mild on the nostril, which is pretty frequent amongst blended scotches (Whisky World has a superb primer blended scotch). However dig in and also you’ll discover cooked apples, oranges, honey, almonds, and a slight medicinal observe. On the palate, Chivas XV brings in pears, raisins, caramel, creme brulee, and gentle oak, and from begin to end there’s a well-balanced mingling of vigorous fruit with dessert-like qualities. This isn’t essentially the most advanced whisky, but it surely’s gratifying and pleasant, and there’s sufficient happening to please veteran scotch drinkers and Chivas followers.
Given the whisky’s easygoing nature and inexpensive value level, Chivas suggests a number of cocktail choices for drinkers who wish to transcend straight pours: Strive it in a Gold Rush (on this case that includes scotch as an alternative of the same old bourbon), or something involving Champagne.
★★★
Stats:
—40% ABV
—$49.99