Royal Salute 38yo whisky

Distillery Background and History

Royal Salute is a prestige blended Scotch whisky brand produced by Chivas Brothers, launched in 1953 to commemorate Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation. It is named after the 21-gun salute given at royal occasions. All Royal Salute whiskies are matured for a minimum of 21 years. The “38 Year Old – Stone of Destiny” edition is one of its ultra-premium releases, composed of rare whiskies matured for at least 38 years, and is inspired by the Stone of Destiny used in Scottish coronations. 

Master Distiller and Production Philosophy

The blended whiskies are selected and overseen by the Royal Salute mastering team under Chivas Brothers (with master blender leadership). Their philosophy is to present an extraordinarily aged blend that honors tradition, complexity, and elegance, with no compromise in balance even at extreme age. The “Stone of Destiny” release emphasizes depth, maturity, and regal character. 

Source of Ingredients (Grain, Water, Yeast)

As a blend, Royal Salute 38 combines multiple malt and grain Scotch whiskies that have been aged long term. The malt whiskies may include classic house component distilleries such as Strathisla. Water and yeast sources correspond to those of the contributing distilleries, though specifics are not publicly disclosed for this expression. 

Distillation Process

Each constituent whisky is distilled by its respective producer—malt whiskies via copper pot stills and grain whiskies via column stills. The craftsmanship lies in selection, maturation, and blending rather than novel distillation techniques in this release.

Maturation & Cask Information

The whiskies in this blend are matured for at least 38 years in oak casks. The blend is crafted from an “extraordinary collection of rare and fine whiskies” each aged 38 years or more. The precise mix of cask types (ex-bourbon, ex-sherry, etc.) is proprietary. 

Tasting Notes

Nose: Rich aromas of dried fruits, assertive spice, deep floral fragrance. 

Palate: Cedar wood, almond, rich sherried oak, layered complexity. 

Finish: Full, long, lingering, with oak, fruit, and spice tones standing out. 

Food Pairing Suggestions

Pairs well with fine dark chocolate, dried fruits (figs, apricots), mature cheeses (e.g. aged Comté), nut-based desserts, or pâté. It can also complement rich game or roast meats that harmonize with oak fruit and spice.

Service Suggestions and Ideal Glassware

Serve neat or with a few drops of water to open aromatics. Use a Glencairn or tulip whisky glass for aroma concentration. Ideal tasting temperature: ~16-18 °C. A light decant (10-15 minutes) might help in unlocking deeper notes.

Storage and Aging Potential

Once bottled, the whisky is stable; no further aging occurs. Store upright in cool, dark, stable conditions (~15-20 °C). After opening, aim to drink within 1–2 years to preserve aromatic integrity.

Grain Type & Mash Bill (if applicable)

Blended Scotch (malt + grain whiskies)

ABV (Alcohol by Volume)

40 %