Lemon and lime, grapefruit peel, and vanilla sugar are the most striking characteristics, with base notes of caramel, milk chocolate, and dry spices to round off the nose. Vanilla, fudge, and muted peppery spices on a lightweight structure, but it blossoms in flavor—if not mouthfeel—with citrus peel, creamy milk chocolate, and coffee notes, leaving cocoa, spices, and citrus acidity on the finish. (Travel Retail exclusive)

Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Fall 2020)

Intended to recreate the spirit of James and John Chivas, this blend uses high proportions of Longmorn and Strathisla malts. The nose has green apples, peaches in syrup, blended honey, and oat flapjacks. A soft and light opener of orange sherbet, melon, and dried apple. Dilution yields a delicious creamy texture with more assertive citrus flavors and bitter peel showing by the end. A distinctive character from the regular 12 year old, but this should be regarded as an equal. £40

Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Spring 2016)

The assured Scotch whisky that became one of the classic blends. Dry and sweet, with a nose of vanilla sponge, fresh cut flowers, and marzipan over a malty base. Pleasingly oily, with flavors of burning butter, malty toffee, and cake mix, with gentle spices and hints of chocolate appearing the longer you hold off swallowing. The glossy mouthfeel makes this feel like an everyday luxury. A finish of spent spices, cocoa, hazelnut, and a waft of smoke brings it home.

Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Spring 2016)

A new oloroso-forward Chivas positioned to split between the 12 and 18 year olds? I got this. Refined and inviting nose of lemon pith, black fruits, and Kola Kubes. The velvety texture is wonderfully smooth, redolent of an apricot custard Danish, lime zest, raisin, currant, mixed peel, and walnut, with a growing bitter-lemon note. Quite unique finish, like sucking on lumpy Spanish lemons speckled with spices. (LA, NY, Miami, Chicago, Northern California, but will go national)

Reviewed by: Jonny McCormick (Summer 2015)