A little background

Chivas Regal created a new line of whiskies that were dedicated to Manchester United. These bottles were used to support the Beyond Sport Foundation, which promotes the use of sport to address social issues in communities around the world. This particular release was their 13 year old scotch whisky, which was aged in American Rye Whiskey barrels for 13 years. Why 13 years? Because it commemorates the 13 English league titles won with Manchester United under the management of Sir Alex Ferguson, one of the greatest managers in the history of football. Chivas Regal 13 year sits at 80 proof and can be found at an MSRP of around $45.

(Tasted neat from a Halo Glass)

Color

Wet Hay

Nose

The nose starts off pretty thin, yet complex. Rich notes of orange rind, Spring honey, and rye spice make themselves known. Also present are notes that remind me a little of ivory soap, and then spice cake.

Palate

The body is medium. The palate starts out strong at the mid-palate with big notes of vanilla. Orange rind, rye spice, and vanilla also appear on the back palate. There is hardly anything going on at the front palate, but this is made up for by the flavor sticking to the sides of the palate. Something that reminds me of ginger-snap cookies appears on the roof of the mouth and all over the mid palate on the second sip.

Finish

The finish is medium, with notes of vanilla, rye spice, orange, and a hint of barrel char all staying on the mid-back palate.

In closing

This is a very solid scotch! I would definitely buy this for myself, especially at the price point. I think it would make a perfect dessert scotch. It has wonderful notes all throughout, and a finish that lasts long enough to allow you to take some time in between sips. This may be difficult to find, but it’s worth getting!