Royal Salute 21yo Blended Malt Whisky

Distillery Background and History

The Royal Salute brand, launched in 1953 by Chivas Brothers to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, has always aged its whiskies for a minimum of 21 years. Traditionally, Royal Salute was known for its blended Scotch whiskies. “The Malts Blend” is a more recent development: the first blended malt offering from Royal Salute, combining over 21 rare single malts matured for no less than 21 years. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

Under Chivas Brothers’ master blending team (led by Sandy Hyslop), The Malts Blend aims to spotlight the complexity of pure malt whiskies rather than relying on grain whisky for balance. The philosophy is to merge multiple single malts into a harmonious, depthful blend, retaining elegance and structure while providing richness across flavor layers. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

Because this is a blended malt (malt only), all components come from malted barley distilled at Scotch malt distilleries (i.e. no grain whisky). Water and yeast sources correspond to those used in each contributing distillery. The brand does not publicize details of every single malt component. 

Distillation Process

Each single malt in the blend is produced by classic Scotch malt technique: copper pot stills, double distillation, and distillate shaping via reflux and cuts according to distillery style. The blending team then merges these matured malt whiskies. (Implicit in the “malt blend” designation) 

Maturation & Cask Information

Every component in The Malts Blend is matured for at least 21 years in oak casks. The exact cask types (ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, etc.) and proportions are proprietary. The long age and cask selection are intended to allow layered oak, fruit, and spice notes to develop and integrate. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Sweet peaches and mandarin citrus, pears, blackcurrant, and violet floral lift. 

Palate: Creamy vanilla, apricot, banana crème brûlée, balanced by spicy clove and orchard fruit character. 

Finish: Long, sweet and tangy with lingering fruit and spice notes. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with refined desserts such as crème brûlée, poached pears, almond cake, or salty cheeses. Also suits light game meats or roast duck with fruit glaze, where the malt complexity can harmonize.

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water to open aromatics. Use a tulip or Glencairn whisky glass to channel aroma concentration. Ideal serving temperature ~16–18 °C.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, the whisky is fully mature and stable—no further aging will occur. Store upright in a cool, dark environment (~15-20 °C). After opening, aim to consume within 1-2 years to preserve its nuanced aromatic profile.

Grain Type & Mash Bill

Blended Malt (100 % malt whiskies, no grain whisky)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %