Chivas Regal 12 Years Scotch Whisky

Chivas Regal is a world-famous Scotch blend that was first made in the early 20th century by Chivas Brothers. The company can trace its roots back to 1801, with the opening of grocers at Number 13 King Street, Aberdeen.

Selling luxury food, coffee, and spices, it wasn't until half a century later that the company started to make whiskey, and then not until post-US Prohibition that Chivas Regal 12 Year Old was first officially released. F. Paul Pacult described Chivas Regal 12 as "the blend for grown-ups," awarding it an impressive 9 out of 10. It's a very apt statement - this is a very refined blended whiskey, with herbs, honey, and fruit leaping forth on the palate. Regularly lauded by the critics, this is a superb blend in its price category, representing excellent value for money.

Nose: A creamy, aromatic mélange of vanilla custard, hints of aniseed, lemon curd and butter toffee. Wood shavings and dried banana chips develop with just a hint of cassis.

Palate: More of those banana chips showing through on the palate, this time there's a creamy hit of barley malt too, pepped up with a little allspice. Notes of ground walnut and caramel.

Finish: Light spice and black pepper on the tail. Lingering notes of cereal sweetness.

Overall: A spicy, beautifully balanced blend. Lots going on here.