Chivas Regal innovates with smoke

Pernod Ricard-owned Chivas Regal has unveiled the latest expression in its Extra range, which brings a ‘smooth and smoky twist’ to the line-up.

Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection seeks to elevate the experience of the modern whisky drinker by combining the ‘richness’ of traditional the whisky’s house style with the ‘gentle taste of smooth smoke’.

Launching exclusively in Turkey before being rolled out globally, the new blend has been selectively finished in casks previously housing peated whisky, in a bid to bring additional depth and flavour to the Chivas Regal range.

Sandy Hyslop, Chivas Regal master blender, commented: “With a focus on quality and a spirit of innovation, we are always seeking to elevate the experience for the modern whisky drinker – and Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection does just that.

“By driving the idea of adding ‘extra’ flavour to our whiskies through new and exciting extra cask finishes, we are responding to consumer demand and exploring new flavour profiles in Scotch. The deep and rich notes in our latest expression bring a new and sophisticated edge to the Chivas Regal Extra range, offering whisky lovers a smooth and smoky tasting experience.”

Chivas Regal noted that smoky casks have always been an integral part of its blend, but previously these notes were very subtle on the palate.

The Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection is said to take these notes ‘to a new level’, further elevating the smoky flavours and delivering a more distinctive smoky character.

The new expression features rich notes of spiced apples and roasted chestnuts on the nose, with fresh cranberries, sweet caramel, and gingerbread on the palate, finished with star anise and a warming touch of bonfire smoke.

The launch is supported by a range of easy-to-make-at-home cocktail recipes including Smoky Espresso and Smoky Basil Smash. The brand said the cocktails have been crafted to enhance the versatility of the smoky blend, and will provide consumers with ‘a modern Scotch whisky taste experience’.

Furthermore, Chivas Regal said these serves have been designed to not only cater to the growing consumer demand for new flavour profiles in Scotch, but also open up new and engaging drinks experiences, making sophisticated whisky cocktails accessible to all.

The packaging has been designed to reflect the smoky hues of the blend, and features charcoal colouring and golden flowing lines throughout. These elements have been intertwined with the classic Chivas Regal shield and crossed spears.

Chivas Regal Extra Smoky Cask Selection joins four other expressions in the Extra range. These have utilised casks that previously held Irish whiskey, Tequila, rum and oloroso Sherry.

Earlier this month, Chivas Regal partnered with Ferrari’s Formula One team.

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Author: Georgie Collins