Chivas Regal 12 Year Old

Delicate, Juicy, Oak, Vanilla
2024-01-04

The youngest release from Chivas Brothers, the Chivas Regal 12, is an indispensable component of any well-stocked spirits department. Since the early 20th century, this bottling has enjoyed widespread popularity, especially among non-experts who delight in savoring it on special occasions. The primary malt in the blend is notably sourced from the Strathisla Distillery on the Speyside. Today, we take the time to see how it presents itself from our perspective.

Smell

The initial impression of the aroma is somewhat delicate. Typical notes of oak and honey are present, accompanied by a spicy nuance reminiscent of herbal tea. There's nothing bothersome or unexpected, although the nose is not exactly a fireworks display.

Taste

The taste pleasantly surprises, offering more excitement than the nose might suggest. A pronounced honey note is complemented by subtle hints of apples and pears. The blend is not overly sweet but is exceptionally smooth, creamy, and well-balanced. It distinguishes itself with a successful balance between fruity and nutty-spicy flavors.

Finish

In the finish, the blend loses a bit of momentum. It remains medium in length, retaining its creamy-spicy character with pleasant oak tones. Nevertheless, towards the end, it appears somewhat one-dimensional.

Thoughts

Chivas Regal 12 rightfully enjoys great popularity and high sales. The age statement on a blend in this price segment gives it a distinctive touch. Its smoothness and creaminess convey the impact of the prolonged aging process, demonstrating how whiskey neat becomes a true pleasure. Many finely tuned classic Scotch aromas are present. For connoisseurs seeking something more exhilarating, it may be considered somewhat uneventful.

Rating: 66/100 - Good (Marcel: 65 | Sascha: 67)

Value for Money: 4/5 - Good

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Preview Image Source: The Whisky Exchange