Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail has announced the launch of the Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition, marking the start of a new era of the British monarchy with an ultra-prestige limited-edition expression. Only 500 bottles (RRP US$25,000) are being released globally this month, including at airports in 20 major markets around the world.
[The Moodie Davitt Report, along with other close industry partners of Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail, is attending a special event in London to mark the launch this evening. Full coverage will follow.]
The Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition is housed in a Dartington Crystal decanter, tinted in a deep sapphire blue hue, reminiscent of the precious stones set within the Imperial State Crown.
In keeping with Royal Salute’s signature style, the decanter is presented in a stylish wooden box inspired by Westminster Abbey, with details intricately chiselled into the wood, paying tribute to the historic setting of British Coronation ceremonies since 1066.
The jewels and crests of each country forming Great Britain were the inspiration for the artwork inside the gift box, symbolising the unity under the Crown and enduring solidarity between the nations.
The brand owner said the release builds on the strong success of a collection of unique and highly collectible items released into the market in recent times, such as last year’s Royal Salute Platinum Jubilee Edition.
Since it was first created as a gift for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II on the day of her Coronation in 1953, Royal Salute has honoured the British Monarchy and marked significant milestones with unique expressions that represent and embody a moment in history.
As the Scotch originated as a Coronation gift 70 years ago, Pernod Ricard GTR said “there couldn’t be a more fitting moment for Royal Salute to pay homage once again”.
Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition has been crafted by Royal Salute Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop. The expression is a blend of over 53 rare malt and grain whiskies, to reflect the year Royal Salute was first crafted.
It is described by its maker as a “beautifully rich and complex expression with notes of fresh redcurrants, dark chocolate praline, and freshly roasted chestnuts, and a palate of sweet figs and fresh ginger leading up to a long and rich finish with a playful spice”.
Commenting on the release, Hyslop, said: “This expression is a momentous tribute to both the British monarchy and Royal Salute’s unique origin story. I wanted to mark this memorable occasion with a blend that was as iconic and special as the original Royal Salute 21 Year Old Signature Blend that was created in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.”
He added: “Crafting this blend has been the perfect occasion to reflect on the innovative approach we’ve taken to blending whisky for the past 70 years, and a moment to look forward to what can be achieved in years to come.”
Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail Vice President of Marketing Liya Zhang commented: “We are honoured to present this illustrious liquid to travellers as a fitting tribute to this historic moment. As we know, travellers are in an exploratory mindset and are seeking newness, innovation and excitement as they return to stores after successive lock downs and travel restrictions.
“There is also great interest in highly exclusive and collectable items such as this, driving a clear premiumisation trend in travel retail. We are delighted to celebrate the Coronation of King Charles III and cater to our discerning travelling customers with the launch of this resplendent whisky.”
Royal Salute Coronation of King Charles III Edition will be available with selected travel retailers at airports in London, Johannesburg, Amsterdam, Istanbul, Beirut, Zurich, Paris, Tel Aviv, Frankfurt, Vienna, Dubai, Delhi and Sydney, and in other key Scotch markets in Asia Pacific that include Hainan, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. 
