Pernod Ricard-owned blended Scotch whisky brand Chivas Regal has revealed the latest addition to its Chivas Extra 13 collection, Chivas Extra 13 Irish Whiskey Cask.
The expression is claimed to be the first Scotch to be finished in Irish whiskey casks. This means a portion of the blend spends time in the referenced cask.
The travel retail-exclusive expression will be rolled out in phases starting in July across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, India and the Pacific. Other markets will be featured by next summer.
Chivas Extra 13 Irish Whiskey Cask joins five other expressions in the range selectively finished, or matured, in casks that previously held American rye, rum, tequila, Oloroso sherry and bourbon.
The liquid features a smooth and sweet finish combined with subtle spice, giving fresh red apple and cream soda on the nose, complemented by set honey on the palate.
Chivas Director of Blending Sandy Hyslop said: “We are very excited to be adding another expression to our Chivas Extra 13 collection. After the success of the previous expressions in the range, we felt the time was right to bolster the collection with a new variant selectively finished in Irish whiskey casks.
“At Chivas, we believe that blended is better and this is perfectly demonstrated through the unique and experimental Extra 13 range, which is pushing the boundaries of traditional Scotch whisky.”
Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail Vice President of Marketing Liya Zhang added: “We are thrilled to launch the new Chivas Extra 13 Irish Whiskey Cask expression, exclusively for travel retail customers globally.
“The first of its kind blend includes Scotch heritage with the rich elements of Irish whiskey casks, offering shoppers and collectors a unique taste experience.”
The Extra 13 collection is inspired by pioneering whisky blenders and founding brothers James and John Chivas. They imported rums, exotic spices, and luxury food items from across the globe to their emporium at 13 King Street, Aberdeen. ✈