Chivas Regal has launched a limited-edition expression of its 13-year-old Chivas Extra, which has been finished in American Rye Casks.
The rye cask finish adds an extra flavour dimension to the Chivas blend, and Chivas Regal Brand Ambassador, Emily Andrew, told TheShout that finishing a portion of the blend allows a scope of flavour to work with.
“In this expression, we wanted to magnify the sweet, delicate vanilla notes of the Chivas house style with the selectively finished American Rye casks,” Andrew said.
“On the nose you will find delicate notes of sweet caramel toffee intermingled with creamy vanilla. Followed by soft red apples and fragrant floral notes. Whilst the taste is exceptionally smooth and inviting with flavours of sweet and juicy citrus orange, creamy milk chocolate and a dusting of cinnamon.”
While it is a whisky that works in a sipping capacity, Andrew also said it works for those who are building their bartending at home skills, recommending an Old Fashioned-style cocktail.
“The sweet notes of the cherry will complement those of the Chivas Extra 13, and the classic citrus twist will elevate these juicy and sweet notes within the whisky,” she told TheShout.
“A classic Old Fashioned is used with rye whisky so it really is the perfect flavour combination. Alternatively, a top drink during the prohibition was a Sazerac, which with the citrus notes and hints of spice, using Chivas Extra 13 American Rye Casks would be a perfect twist.”
She added: “As both the flavour profile of America Rye and Chivas Extra are very popular in the Australian market, we feel experiencing this blend on the rocks is ideal. However, adding in those subtle complementary flavours found in citrus or sour fruits can also bring a smoother finish. Try a prohibition era favourite like the sidecar or bring a twist to the classic whisky sour.”
The new super-premium expression celebrates Chivas’s 110-year success since the luxury Scotch landed on American shores in 1909. Selectively finished in American Rye Casks, the blend has been aged for each year Scotch was not legally available in the US during Prohibition, which lasted from 1920 – 1933.
Sandy Hyslop, Director of Blending at Chivas, said: “Chivas and America began a love affair in 1909, which continues to this day. Incorporating the rye cask finish, adds the perfect blend of American accent and Chivas house style to create our first 13 year-old edition; one I’m sure will be appreciated by today’s whisky connoisseurs, collectors and discerning drinkers alike.”