Description
Chivas Ultis XX is an elegant and refined expression that bridges the gap between premium blended and high-end malts. It honors tradition while showcasing finesse. With 20 years of maturation behind it and a careful blend of five Speyside single malts (plus a grain component), it delivers a polished balance of fruit, oak, sweetness and subtle complexity. Best enjoyed neat or with a drop of water, Ultis XX is a whisky for contemplative sipping rather than heavy mixing.
Origins & Craftsmanship
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Producer / Brand: Part of the Chivas Regal family (Pernod Ricard), this is their “Ultis” blended malt line, upgraded to a 20-year age statement, hence “XX.”
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Blend Composition: Comprised of five Speyside single malts: Strathisla, Tormore, Longmorn, Allt-a-Bhainne, and Braeval — each contributing distinct aromatics or flavour notes. These are married with (or include) a signature grain whisky (Strathclyde) to bring balance and sweetness.
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Maturation: Aged for a minimum of 20 years in European and American oak casks.
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ABV / Bottling: Bottled at 40% ABV (80 proof).
Tasting Profile
| Element | Notes |
|---|---|
| Nose / Aroma | Fresh orchard fruits: red apples, raspberries jam; vanilla pods and buttered toffee; soft malt and subtle oak background. |
| Palate / Taste | Smooth and sweet — blossom honey, milk chocolate, poached pears in syrup, apricot, orange zest. The oak adds gentle spice and warmth without overwhelming. |
| Finish | Long, sweet, and smooth with lingering fruit, soft oak, and a touch of spice. |
| Additional Notes | In awards 2024, judges noted aromas of barley, apricot, vanilla, honey; on the palate, toffee caramel, dried fruits, wood, tobacco, dark chocolate and a peppery nuance. |
Food & Pairings
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Cheese & Nuts: Aged Gouda, Manchego, or nuts like almonds, hazelnuts. The creamy, nutty profile balances the whisky’s fruit and oak.
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Desserts: Pear or apple tart, crème brûlée, milk chocolate desserts. The orchard fruit and caramel notes in Ultis complement such desserts.
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Savory / Meats: Lightly seasoned roast pork or grilled poultry. The subtle oak spice pairs well with roasted flavors.
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Fruit Dishes: Poached pears, stone fruit compotes, or orange-zested dishes to echo the citrus edge.
Quick Overview
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Name | Chivas Regal Ultis XX (20 Year Old) |
| Type | Blended malt Scotch whisky (no younger components than 20 years) |
| Core Malt Components | Strathisla, Tormore, Longmorn, Allt-a-Bhainne, Braeval + Strathclyde grain whisky |
| Maturation / Oak | European & American oak, 20+ years |
| ABV | 40% |
| Style / Character | Elegant, fruity, sweet-oak, gentle spice, mellow but complex |
| Recommended Serving | Neat, or with a splash of water to open aromas; serve in a tulip or Glencairn glass at ~20–22 °C |
Reviews
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