Chivas Regal Ultis – a made up word from ultimate and ‘fortis’, the Latin word for strong, is described as a luxury blend, dedicated to the five master blenders who have kept the Chivas Regal house style since 1909.
Although launched at the Tax Free World Association (TFWA) trade show in Cannes this week, it will be available globally in one-litre (GTR only) and 70/75cl bottles. Its recommended retail price is $200, according to Andrew Bardsley, Chivas Regal’s global marketing manager.
Chivas director of blending, Sandy Hyslop, told Drinks International, that first fill American oak was crucial to the new blend, describing it as “dialled up wood ratio” on the Chivas style.
His tasting note comprises: “On the nose, sweet rounded, peach, red apple, cinnamon, caramel and toffee. On the palate: clementine orange, apricot juice, spicy, caramel, toffee, cloves and cinnamon.”
Chivas Regal custodian master blender, Colin Scott, describes the composition of Ultis as: “The crystalline freshness of Tormore shines through along with the contrasting, hint of spicy warmth present in Allt A’Bhainne, while the Longmorn single malt adds balance to the blend. The floral style of Braeval complements the fruity sweetness of Strathisla to create a complex and rich blended malt scotch whisky.”
Bardsley said Ultis is Chivas Regal’s “entry point to prestige’, fitting between Chivas Regal 18 Year Old and Chivas Regal ‘The Icon’.
The five master blenders who have overseen the Chivas Regal house style are: Charles Howard, Charles Julian, Allan Baillie, Jimmy Lang and Scott.
