Chivas Regal began in 1801 as an upscale grocery store in Aberdeen, Scotland — catering to the wealthy with French brandies, Caribbean rums, and fine provisions. By 1843, the reputation of James and John Chivas was prestigious enough that Queen Victoria granted them a Royal Warrant to supply her household. It was from that same commitment to quality that the brothers began blending their own whiskies, pioneering an art form that had barely been invented. Chivas Regal 12 Year Old is the direct descendant of that tradition — built around Strathisla, Scotland's oldest continuously operating distillery, with a blend of the finest Speyside and Highland malts and grain whiskies, all aged for a minimum of 12 years.
The result is one of the world's most recognised and reliably excellent blended Scotches — smooth, approachable, and genuinely rich. Honey, hazelnut, butterscotch, and a gentle orchard fruit sweetness come together with a warmth that makes Chivas 12 as comfortable in a Highball with soda and ice as it is in a proper whisky glass neat. It introduced luxury blended Scotch to a global audience and still delivers on that promise with every bottle.
ABV / Proof
| Producer |
Chivas Brothers, Aberdeen, Scotland (Est. 1801) |
| Royal Warrant |
Granted by Queen Victoria, 1843 |
| Type |
Blended Scotch Whisky |
| Heart |
Strathisla single malt — Scotland's oldest continuously operating distillery |
| Minimum Age |
12 years for every whisky in the blend |
| Proof |
80 Proof |
| ABV |
40% |
| Bottle Size |
750ml |
| Country |
Scotland |
Tasting Notes
Color: Rich gold with warm amber tones
Nose: Inviting and smooth — honey, hazelnut, butterscotch, and fresh orchard fruit with a gentle floral lift from the Speyside malts
Palate: Creamy and rounded — caramel, vanilla, soft toffee, apple and pear sweetness, with light warming spice from the oak
Finish: Smooth and satisfying — the sweetness lingers gently with a warm, clean exit that makes every sip an invitation to pour another
FAQ
What is Strathisla and why is it the heart of Chivas?
Strathisla is Scotland's oldest continuously operating distillery, founded in 1786 in the town of Keith in Speyside. It produces a rich, honeyed, and fruity single malt that forms the backbone of the Chivas house style. The distillery is also the official home of Chivas Regal and its distinctive twin copper pot stills are inseparable from the brand's identity.
How does Chivas 12 compare to Chivas 18?
Chivas 12 offers a lighter, more accessible profile — honey, hazelnut, and vanilla with gentle spice. Chivas 18 requires every whisky in the blend to be aged at least 18 years, producing significantly more depth, richness, dark chocolate character, and length. The 12 is the approachable everyday expression; the 18 is the occasion Scotch.
Is Chivas 12 good for cocktails?
Yes — it's the classic choice for a Chivas Highball (Chivas 12 with soda water and ice, garnished with lemon). The smooth, sweet profile also works beautifully in a Rob Roy, Whisky Sour, or simply on the rocks with a cube. Its 12-year age and soft character make it one of the most versatile Scotch cocktail bases available.
Where can I buy Chivas Regal 12 Year online?
Available here at Liquor On Broadway — fast, insured shipping nationwide.
