Chivas Regal combines whisky and sake
The blended Scotch whisky brand has collaborated with sake brewery Masuizumi on Chivas Regal Takumi Reserve, a 12-year-old 'spirit drink'.
The expression is said to combine Chivas whisky's rich and smooth taste with the 'unique and delicate' flavours found in sake. Sake brewery Masuizumi is based in Toyama, Japan. The expression is also an exclusive launch for Asia. Sandy Hyslop, director of blending at Chivas Brothers, said: “Chivas Regal Takumi Reserve represents new territory for Chivas, pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship to deliver a coveted spirit drink that blends the rich heritage of Scotch whisky with the diverse, internationally inspired palette of flavours found in premium sake." To make the spirit drink, barrels previously intended for the brand's last collaboration with Masuizumi, Line 8888, were used for the finish. The ex-Chivas oak casks are filled with the sake before they arrived back in Scotland to finish a portion of the spirit. The Takumi Reserve's profile is said to feature a ‘velvet, rich’ flavour that's accented by ‘delicate freshness of juicy pears’ that offer a sweet and crisp note. In addition, drinkers will also find hints of cloves and nutmeg that adds a ‘warm and aromatic’ complexity. Bottled at 40% ABV, Chivas Regal Takumi Reserve is available to purchase in Japan, Taiwan, Philippines, and Cambodia. In Japan, its priced at an SPR of JPY¥7,260 (US$50) Last month, parent company Chivas Brothers reported the brand saw a 1.2% sales drop for the year ending 30 June 2024. It did, however, gain share in 50% of its focus markets. It also recently dipped into the world of sport with a multi-year global partnership deal with Arsenal Football Club.
