Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 03:44 am
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Chivas 18 vs Royal Salute 21 in this in-depth comparison and decide which Whisky is better for You!
Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.
Written by: J Highland
Chivas Regal 18 vs Royal Salute 21: Comparison
Chivas 18: Showcases apple, vanilla, and pear on the nose, leading to a palate of ripe fruit, vanilla, and subtle oak. Its long finish of vanilla and apple underlines its elegance. Ideal for those who appreciate smoothness and refinement.
Royal Salute 21: Delivers an experience of luxury with its blend of aged whiskies, presenting aromas of apple and almond, followed by a palate of oak and caramel. The long finish with tobacco and oak spice adds a layer of complexity. Perfect for sippers seeking a blend with depth and a touch of royalty.
Verdict: Both Chivas 18 and Royal Salute 21 offer premium experiences, with Chivas 18 appealing to those desiring a balanced and smooth blend, while Royal Salute 21 caters to enthusiasts looking for aged sophistication and a richer flavor profile, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Top Chivas Whiskeys
Chivas 18: A Smooth Blend with Refined Elegance
- Nose: Apple, vanilla, pear
- Palate: Ripe fruit, oak, vanilla, plum
- Finish: Long, vanilla, apple, oak
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Add water
- Similar to: Chivas 12
Chivas 18 embodies sophistication in a glass. This blended Scotch whisky, crafted from 20 single malts aged for at least 18 years, offers a well-rounded and approachable drinking experience.
What to expect:
- Pleasant aroma: Delicate notes of apple, vanilla, and pear create an inviting fragrance.
- Balanced taste: Ripe fruits, vanilla, plum, and subtle oak mingle for a smooth and harmonious flavor profile.
- Warmth without bite: A touch of warmth lingers on the palate, avoiding harshness or overwhelming spice.
- Lingering finish: Vanilla, apple, and a hint of oak spice leave a pleasant aftertaste with a subtle warmth.
While smooth and easy to drink, Chivas 18 doesn’t boast bold or standout characteristics. Its well-balanced nature caters to those who appreciate a refined and approachable whisky. A touch of water can unlock additional sweetness, further enhancing its smoothness.
Chivas 18 in a nutshell:
- Blended Scotch whisky featuring 20 single malts, each aged for at least 18 years.
- Smooth and well-balanced taste profile with fruity, vanilla, and oaky notes.
- Easy to drink and enjoyable for various palates.
- Considerably more expensive than younger expressions.
If you seek a refined and luxurious blended Scotch whisky, Chivas 18 is a worthy option. However, those seeking bolder flavor profiles might find it lacking in distinct character.
Royal Salute 21: Smooth Luxury with a Hint of Royalty
- Nose: Apple, almond, vanilla
- Palate: Oak, caramel, raisin, baking spice
- Finish: Long, tobacco, oak spice, smoke
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Neat
- Similar to: Blue Label
Royal Salute 21 embodies smooth luxury in a bottle. This blended Scotch whisky boasts a minimum of 21 years of aging, resulting in a refined and balanced taste profile.
What to expect:
- Subtle aroma: Apple, almond, and vanilla notes offer a familiar and inviting fragrance.
- Balanced taste: Oak plays a leading role, complemented by sweet caramel, raisins, and hints of baking spice.
- Long, warming finish: A touch of bitterness from oak mingles with subtle tobacco and smoke notes, leaving a lingering warmth.
While smooth and pleasant, Royal Salute may lack the boldness some seek. Its flavors, while well-balanced, don’t offer any standout characteristics. A higher proof could potentially enhance its depth, but the brand prioritizes a smoother experience.
Royal Salute in a nutshell:
- Blended Scotch whisky aged for at least 21 years.
- Smooth and well-balanced taste profile with oak, caramel, and subtle spice notes.
- Handcrafted porcelain flagons add a touch of luxury.
- Considerably more expensive than comparable whiskies.
Royal Salute caters to those who appreciate a refined and luxurious whisky experience. If you prioritize bold flavors and value, other options might be more suitable.