Harris Reed is a designer “famend for his completely crafted demi-couture designs, gender-fluid style and A-list superstar following,” and apparently he’s bought the wanted abilities to mix a very good Scotch whisky, too. To that finish, Royal Salute Grasp Blender Sandy Hyslop met Reed at Strathisla to give you a brand new 21 12 months previous mix which “marries the best Scotch whiskies inside Royal Salute’s enviable stock.” Naturally Reed designed the bottle, too, which is out there in three colour selections, every adorned with a feather theme.
What’s within the mix?
The 21-Yr-Previous Scotch is a superbly balanced mix together with sherry-matured Braeval whisky, bringing notes of raisins and spice. Chosen for its evocation of Reed’s childhood reminiscences, this liquid is married with malts matured in American oak barrels for heightened fruit and candy notes. To completely spherical off this already excellent mix, the uncommon inclusion of a grain whisky completed in charred virgin oak barrels intertwines layers of vanilla right into a luxuriously creamy texture.
Does Harris Reed know his approach round a mixing room? Let’s discover out.
There’s little doubt that it is a very gentle, female whisky, even for Royal Salute, which is famously delicate. The nostril is gently floral, akin to potpourri, however dusted with drops of vanilla syrup, and a honey graham sweetness. Time in glass evokes notes of banana and torched citrus peel. Finally you catch what that virgin oak has accomplished, courtesy of a heartier, extra insistent richness and a few peppery spice.
The palate hits first with almondy marzipan and milk chocolate notes, making for a really dessert-like expertise. Smooth and relaxed, the fruit right here once more leans heavy on banana earlier than opening a door to baked purple apples, after which a delicate spritz of baking spice. Creamy and doughy on the end, the conclusion arrives with notes of buttery pound cake and vanilla frosting.
Completely nothing unpleasant on this dram, offered the price doesn’t shock you too exhausting.
80 proof.
A / $248/ royalsalute.com
Royal Salute 21 Years Previous Harris Reed Version
$248
