CHIVAS REGAL ULTIS
20 YEAR BLENDED SCOTCH WHISKY
SCOTLAND
As a producer, Chivas Regal has always been its own constellation — a marquee whisky maker with a top end like few others. Collectors revere the brand for its extraordinarily small-production, high-end releases. And Ultis XX has just claimed its rightful place in this pantheon, having recently claimed a Double Gold at the 2024 International Spirits Challenge. And just to note: Chivas stopped making this, but has brought it back, in limited release, so now’s your window to pounce. And with only 400 cases in the U.S., you’re going to want to do it STAT.
Trust me, folks, this isn't just another trophy for their already-crowded cabinet — it's confirmation of what I suspected the moment I tasted it.
Its easy-going approachability notwithstanding, this is unmistakably luxury territory, crafted by the same hands responsible for treasures like the 50 Year Old Coronation Cask (now fetching north of $40,000) and the celebrated 62 Gun Salute that Whisky Advocate called "a work of genius."
What sets it apart? Where do I start …
Only the top 1% of casks made the cut here — a level of selectivity that would make Ivy League admissions officers blush. Master Blender Sandy Hyslop took Chivas's crown jewels (Strathisla, Allt-a'Bhainne, Braeval, Longmorn, and Tormore) — five single malts, each one among the best of Speyside — married them to Chivas's signature Strathclyde grain whisky, and aged the blend for 20 years.
When you take your first sips, you’ll see the richness and complexity of the weave: it’s a little like the drinking equivalent of watching a perfect Broadway cast, in which each performer shines individually and at the same time you’re aware of being in the presence of something communally transcendent.
The aromatics are focused and expansive and announce themselves immediately, starting with a burst of juicy red apples and raspberry jam, then segueing into vanilla and butter toffee. As compelling as this is, it hardly prepares you for the palate, and the richness and vibrancy that await you, with waves of blossom honey and milk chocolate giving way to poached pears, apricot, and clementine orange. The finale is wonderfully gentle and sweet, and, best of all, flows organically from all that comes before.
Hyslop says he conceived it as a tip of the hat to his five predecessors, each of whom left their fingerprints on the Chivas style. I love how this heritage theme carries through to the bottle itself: those five copper rings encircling the neck aren't just decorative; they're a subtle nod to the five generations who've perfected this craft. Even the grandeur of the name "Ultis" (Latin, for “ultimate") feels like an earned accolade.
Skip the ice and water with this one — it's already perfectly balanced just as it is. Add an orange twist if you're feeling fancy; it'll amplify the subtle clementine sweetness.
And remember, folks, we only buy and source directly from the distillery, to ensure perfect provenance. So don’t hesitate to secure yours … and bring a little luxury into your daily grind.