DRAM1 Awards Panel Edition
The Chivas Regal 18 is a blended Scotch whisky designed to showcase a smooth, elegant style with subtle sherry influence and rich fruit notes. Based on 100+ tasting notes from the DRAM1 Awards Tasting Panel, this review captures the consensus on its nose, palate, finish, and overall character.
Stats
Brand: Chivas Regal
Whisky Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
ABV: 40% (80 Proof)
Tasting Notes – Chivas Regal 18
Nose
The nose is moderately expressive and fruit-forward, though panelists noted some variability in clarity and depth. Key impressions include:
- Fruits: fresh apple, pear, tangerine, strawberries, melon, occasional plums and tropical hints
- Sweet and dessert notes: vanilla, honey, fudge, shortbread, cookie dough, caramel
- Subtle spice and wood: cinnamon, ginger, light oak, gentle pepper
- Other descriptors: floral and herbaceous hints, light tobacco leaf, soft leather, occasional mild medicinal notes
Several tasters noted that the nose is pleasant and inviting, but not particularly complex, with some describing it as slightly “manufactured” or overly polished, consistent with modern blended whisky styles.
Palate
On the palate, Chivas Regal 18 is soft, smooth, and easy-drinking, though some panelists found it light or thin compared to the aroma. Recurrent tasting notes included:
- Fruity sweetness: red berries, tropical fruits, melon, hints of citrus
- Baked and dessert notes: shortbread, caramel, toffee, fudge, vanilla
- Malt and cereal influence: lightly grainy texture, mild honey, gentle spice
- Wood and tannin: soft oak presence, subtle sherry or port influence
- Spice and seasoning: cinnamon, ginger, light pepper, vanilla cream
While many appreciated its balanced, approachable character, some tasters found the palate less engaging than the nose, with limited depth or dynamic evolution. Overall, it is gentle, sweet, and accessible, suitable for casual drinking.
Finish
The finish is medium in length, gentle, and slightly drying, with panel members describing:
- Soft fruity echoes: apple, pear, red berries
- Sweet and creamy notes: caramel, fudge, vanilla
- Mild spice: white pepper, cinnamon
- Subtle tannin or bitterness: faint oak or grainy dryness
Though not overly long or dramatic, the finish maintains the whisky’s rounded, approachable style, providing a lightly warming conclusion with lingering sweetness.
Food Pairing
Chivas Regal 18 pairs best with dessert or lightly spiced foods:
- Fruit tarts or pies: apple, pear, or mixed berries
- Vanilla or caramel-based desserts
- Chocolate desserts, particularly milk chocolate or fudge
- Soft cheeses: Brie, Camembert, or mild triple creams
- Nuts: almonds, hazelnuts, or pecans
These pairings complement the whisky’s sweet, fruity, and lightly spiced profile without overwhelming its gentle character.
Verdict
Strengths
- Pleasant and approachable: soft, smooth, and gentle, ideal for casual sipping.
- Sweet, fruit-forward nose: apples, pears, red berries, vanilla, caramel.
- Balanced palate: mild sherry influence and dessert-like notes.
- Rounded finish: medium-length, slightly drying but generally pleasant.
- Versatile: works well with desserts, nuts, or soft cheeses.
Weaknesses
- Limited complexity: both nose and palate are relatively straightforward.
- Somewhat thin or watery palate: less satisfying than the aromatic promise.
- Shorter finish: fades more quickly than some expect for an 18-year-old expression.
- Occasional off-notes: faint medicinal or grainy hints reported by a few panelists.
Final Thoughts
The Chivas Regal 18-Year-Old is a refined, approachable blended Scotch, emphasising smoothness, sweet fruit, and subtle sherry influence over bold or challenging flavours. The nose is inviting, with fresh fruit, honey, and vanilla leading, while the palate is soft, lightly spiced, and easy-drinking. The finish is gentle and medium-length, offering a modest, sweet conclusion.
According to the DRAM1 Awards Panel, this whisky is well-suited for casual sipping, dessert pairing, or introducing new whisky drinkers to blended Scotch. It delivers a pleasant, polished, and rounded experience, though it lacks the complexity and depth some may seek in an 18-year-old expression.
A reliable and friendly dram, perfect for those who prioritise smoothness and sweetness over power or complexity.
