Chivas Royal Salute 21 LCBO Price: A Blended Whisky with Complex Flavors

When it comes to blended whiskies, opinions can vary widely. For this review, I had the opportunity to try the Chivas Royal Salute 21, a premium blend from Scotland's oldest and most iconic distiller, Johnnie Walker. With a price tag of around $100 CAD at the LCBO, does this whisky deliver on its promises?

To answer this question, I conducted a blind tasting, pouring the sample without knowing what it was or how much it cost. This approach helps to keep my palate honest and unbiased. Upon first impression, I detected some nice things happening in the glass, but overall, the whisky felt a bit out of balance.

As time passed, the flavors began to settle, revealing a sweet and light-bodied whisky with notes of red fruit, caramel, vanilla, and spices. The finish was dominated by vanilla, oak, and a touch of bitterness from orange zest. While there were some pleasant surprises, I couldn't shake the feeling that this whisky was missing something.

One of my biggest issues with the Chivas Royal Salute 21 is its disjointed character. The nose and initial taste profile felt like two different styles of whisky, which made it difficult to appreciate the overall flavor experience. Additionally, the bitterness on the finish became a distraction, reminding me of some Forty Creek whiskies.

Despite these criticisms, there were some redeeming qualities. The red fruit aromas were lovely at first, but unfortunately, they faded with time. The vanilla and caramel notes, however, remained prominent throughout. With a longer rest in the glass, additional flavors emerged, including a creamy aroma and subtle spices.

In terms of body, the Chivas Royal Salute 21 is light to almost medium bodied, making it an easy sipping whisky. The palate offers a mix of fruity (strawberries and cherries?), soft caramels, and spices, with a touch of cocoa powder and black pepper.

While this blended whisky may not be perfect, it's undeniable that Chivas has created something complex and interesting here. With a price point around $100 CAD at the LCBO, it's worth trying for fans of blended whiskies or those looking to explore a new style. Just keep in mind that the flavors may take some time to develop, and don't be surprised if you find yourself drawn back to this whisky for another sip.

Rating: Price: Around $100 CAD at the LCBO

Chivas royal salute 21 lcbo price