Chivas Regal: A Trio of Timeless Expressions

Chivas XV (15 Year Old) – The Celebratory Sipper

Chivas XV arrives as the most festive of the trio. The nose presents stewed red apples, orange marmalade, honey, cinnamon, and raisins. Its palate is smooth and fruit forward, think poached pears, butterscotch, caramel toffees and a gentle finish of vanilla. A select part of the blend is aged in French oak cognac casks, conferring orchard fruit gloss and a subtle patisserie warmth without tipping into sweetness (40% ABV). On the official site as the “Engraved Chivas XV.”

This expression excels in lively settings perfect for champagne style cocktails such as a Royale, yet also charming neat alongside pear crumble, tarte tatin, or a cheeseboard. If you want a Scotch that’s polished, playful, and effortlessly elegant, Chivas XV delivers.

Chivas 18 Years Old – The Classic Crowd-Pleaser

Chivas 18 leans deeper and more refined. The brand notes “85 flavour notes” which you can sense in dried fruit, buttery toffee, dark chocolate, orange zest, and a whisper of smoke. The palate continues the theme with velvety chocolate and floral undertones; the finish is long, warm, and satisfying. Recognised with a Gold at the 2024 International Spirits Challenge and Silver at IWSC 2024, its balance and finesse are award-worthy.

Here, sparkle gives way to layered complexity. It’s superb neat after dinner, especially with dark chocolate or toasted nuts. It also lifts effortless cocktails like a refined Old Fashioned or minimalist Martini riff where its chocolate orange and smoky undertones shine.

Chivas 25 Years Old – Subtle, Heritage Luxury

Chivas 25 bears a storied legacy: originally launched in early 1900s New York as “the world’s first luxury whisky,” now revived as a small batch, masterfully composed blend. Expect elegant aromas of sweet orange, peach, marzipan and nuts; a palate of milk chocolate orange and fondant creaminess; and a polished, lingering finish that’s as refined as it is expressive (40% ABV)

It’s a bottle meant for slow, contemplative pours best neat, paired with a square of high cocoa chocolate or a slice of candied orange. The 25 isn’t about intensity; it’s about harmonious restraint and composure.

Quick Comparison: Which to Reach For?

• Aromas & Fruit:

  • XV: Bright (apple, pear, orange marmalade).

  • 18: Darker and layered (dried fruit, toffee, chocolate, smoke).

  • 25: Refined citrus chocolate with marzipan nuance.

• Mouthfeel & Finish:

  • XV: Silky, the most approachable.

  • 18: Plush with a warm, extended finish.

  • 25: Most polished, smooth, long lasting, and elegant.

• Best Serve:

  • XV: Champagne cocktails or neat before a meal.

  • 18: Neat, on the rocks, or in understated classic cocktails.

  • 25: Neat, late-evening, when silence sets the stage.

Final Thoughts

• Chivas XV (15) brings upbeat charm fruit, smooth, and ideal for occasions. It’s versatile, modern, and instantly likable.

• Chivas 18 stands as the one bottle workhorse: deep, balanced, sophisticated but never aloof.

• Chivas 25 is quiet luxury in bottle form graceful, refined, and perfect for landmark moments or gifting connoisseurs.

For more details or to explore the complete collection, visit the official site at chivas.com/en-gb.

Please enjoy responsibly.