Chivas Regal XV (15 Year Old) adds a Cognac cask finishing stage to the standard Chivas blending process. After blending and initial maturation, the whisky is finished in French Cognac casks from the Martell house (both owned by Pernod Ricard), adding a layer of wine-like richness to the familiar Chivas smoothness.
The Cognac finishing is well-judged — adding dried fruit and a gentle oak richness without overwhelming the Chivas character. The Strathisla and Longmorn malts that form the blend's backbone provide enough weight to support the additional wood influence.
Chivas XV is a successful innovation that adds genuine interest to the Chivas range. The Cognac finishing provides a point of difference from both the standard 12 Year Old and the premium 18, and the quality justifies the moderate premium. A thoughtful, well-executed twist on one of Scotch whisky's most familiar brands.
