Chivas Regal is a world-famous Scotch blend which was first made in the early 20th century by Chivas Brothers. The company can trace its roots back to 1801, with the opening of a 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 whisky, 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 whisky, 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 great value for money.
A creamy, aromatic melange of vanilla custard, hints of aniseed, lemon curd and butter toffee. Wood shavings and dried banana chips develop with just a hint of cassis.
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.
Light spice and black pepper on the tail. Lingering notes of cereal sweetness.
A spicy, beautifully balanced blend. Lots going on here.
1st time I’ve tried CHIVAS Regal 12. Very ordinary indeed, but also inexpensive. Nothing on the nose, bland on the palate. Reminds me of some of the Irish whiskeys I’ve tried recently. Probably ok for those who add mixers to whisky ?
Not much to offend here, but then little to like either. Hints of interest with a spicy finish, but nothing special.
As I am growing older, guilty of drinking too much whiskies (Japan, Taiwan, Scotland, India..) this dram is something that I don’t mind revisiting. When I don’t know which bottle to pick from my bar, when I just want something in my hand, and when I don’t feel like “analyzing” what I am drinking… this works. Always featured in my bottom shelf alongside Teachers.
CR is what I'd describe as an entry level, inoffensive Scotch. Neither good nor 'bad'. No peat, not harsh, no Sherry sweetness. Several good single malts available cheaper than this so get one of those first. This would be OK if you like Scotch with a mixer
Not bad at all for the price. Quite easy drinking and not so expensive that you'd feel guilty having it for a Hot Toddy! If you've more disposable income to spend or have only a taste for peaty whisky you'd probably prefer something else however.
