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A subsidiary of multinational drinks giant, Pernod Ricard, that manages the company's extensive portfolio of Scotch whisky distilleries and brands. It remains synonymous with its historic Chivas Regal and Royal Salute blends and today also boasts the Ballantine's brand as part of its operation.
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87 / 100 · Based on 2 published reviews.
The berry compote character gives this blend a clear, generous direction, while cinnamon and dark chocolate ginger sweets add a pleasingly spiced turn on the palate. I like that it sounds rich without being all sweetness: the slightly dry crescendo gives the finish some contrast. The 21-year-old Malbec Cask edition has an appealing combination of fruit and spice, though that dry edge may be less inviting for someone looking for an entirely soft, sweet finish.
The fruit is the clearest reason this appeals to me. Raspberries and blackberries on the nose suggest berry compote, while plum jam on the palate takes the sweetness in a darker direction. A hint of sweet liquorice adds another note to the aroma; cinnamon and dark chocolate ginger sweets give the palate some spice alongside the fruit. The long, sweet finish turns slightly dry, a shift I welcome after such a rich palate. Even so, the sweetness may be more than someone seeking a restrained whisky wants. For my taste, the progression from berry compote to plum jam is what makes this blend interesting.
