(Photo: Chivas)
On Thursday, Japan and Scotland forged a bond from 5,000 miles across the continent by way of a blended scotch finished in sake casks.
The latest release from Chivas Regal, dubbed Takumi Reserve, recruited help from the Masuizumi sake brewery to accomplish the lofty goal. Ex-Chivas oak casks were sent to Japan, filled with sake and emptied, then returned to Scotland to finish the brand's new 12-year statement.
Chivas and Masuizumi last collaborated in 2018 for the unveiling of Link 8888, an exclusive release of 50 sake bottles aged in ex-Chivas Regal American oak barrels. If we had to guess, those would be the same ones used for this year's Takumi Reserve.
The expression is said to boast a "velvety, rich flavor" with notes of juicy pears, clove and nutmeg. The 40% ABV whisky is slated to roll out exclusively in Japan, Taiwan, the Philippines and Cambodia at an undisclosed price.
"Chivas Regal Takumi Reserve represents new territory for Chivas, pushing the boundaries of craftsmanship to deliver a coveted spirit drink that blends the rich heritage of scotch whisky with the diverse, internationally inspired palette of flavours found in premium sake," Chivas Regal Director of Blending Sandy Hyslop remarked in a news release. "Chivas Regal Takumi Reserve is more than a spirit drink; it's a symbol of the power of collaboration and shared values, inviting enthusiasts to experience the magic born from the unity of tradition and innovation."
The historied brand was created in 1909 by Charles Stewart Howard, the master blender at the Chivas Brothers Distillery in Dumbarton, Scotland. Most consumers know the name best for flagship releases like its 18-year and 25-year, often noted for their bold smoke character. Takumi Reserve is its latest foray aimed squarely at the Asian market.
Shortly after the debut of Link 8888, Chivas rolled out a Japan-only expression aged in coveted Mizunara oak casks. A few years later, the brand shifted focus from spirits enthusiasts to the capital "M" mainstream. Chivas joined forces with LISA, one-fourth of the smash-hit K-pop group Blackpink, for a limited edition bottle adorned with an 18K gold-plated charm. We can attest that K-pop Twitter went head over heels for the news.
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