Royal Salute 24yo Cognac Cask

Distillery Background and History

Royal Salute is a prestige Scotch whisky brand from Chivas Brothers, launched in 1953 to commemorate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II. The line is unique in that all its expressions are aged for at least 21 years. The 24 Year Old Cognac Cask Finish is one of the brand’s more recent luxury releases, crafted to appeal especially to markets interested in cask innovation. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The blend was led by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop. The guiding philosophy is to take the house blend matured in traditional Scotch casks and then add dimension and aroma by finishing those stocks in high-quality cognac casks. The goal is to create a whisky with enhanced richness and elegance. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

As a blended Scotch, the whisky is comprised of malt and grain whiskies. Some of the malt components are drawn from the Strathisla and Longmorn distilleries. The water and yeast sources correspond to the contributing distilleries. 

Distillation Process

The malt portions are distilled in copper pot stills under standard Scotch double distillation, while grain components are produced in column stills. The blending and finishing process is where this edition distinguishes itself. 

Maturation & Cask Information

The whisky is matured for a minimum of 24 years in traditional oak casks, then finished in first-fill French oak cognac casks. The finishing stage is crucial, as the cognac casks impart additional fruit, spice, and oak character layered over the base blend. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Dark cherries, toasted oak, marzipan, caramelised figs, lemon curd, peaches in syrup. 

Palate: Berry compote, apricot jam, blossom honey, creamy caramel, subtle nutmeg. 

Finish: Long and rich, with spice and lingering oak notes. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs with dark chocolate, dried fruit (figs, dates), nutty desserts, crème brûlée, baked apple or pear tarts, and rich cheeses (e.g. aged Gouda, Manchego).

Serving Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water to open complexity. Use a Glencairn or tulip whisky glass to focus aromas. Ideal serving temperature: ~16-18 °C.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, this expression is stable and not intended for further wood aging. Store upright, away from light, in a cool, steady environment (~15-20 °C). After opening, best enjoyed within 1–2 years to preserve aromatic character.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Blended Scotch (malt and grain whiskies) — finished purely via cognac cask influence in this edition.

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %