Chivas Regal Ultis

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Chivas Regal Ultis ($200)

Chivas Regal has long been one of the best known higher-end blended whiskies, but in the wake of the single malt boom, the brand has lost some of its luster. Enter Ultis ($200), an exciting break with the norm. Where most blends employ many different single malts—a few dozen isn’t unheard of—Ultis uses a mere five, in honor of the five master blenders Chivas Regal has employed in its history. It’s also a blended malt, meaning it doesn’t use any of the lighter, column-distilled grain whisky that makes up the vast majority of most blends. The five malts used are all from distilleries in Speyside, a region known for its distinctly gentle and sweet whiskies. Accordingly, Ultis is front-loaded with soft honey and vanilla notes, along with baking spices like clove and cinnamon. The finish is long, smooth, and slightly drying. An elegant blend that would make a great introduction to Scotch whisky for newcomers. (chivasregal.com)