Royal Salute is made in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of HRH Queen Elizabeth II. A strong, sophisticated and opulent blend, aged for not less than 21 many housed in a classic Wade porcelain flagon, this scotch whisky is called to the tradition with the 21 Gun Salute that's fired in the Tower based in london for Royal celebrations.
The first sip releases sumptuous sweet orange marmalade flavours infused with fresh pears that burst over the tongue. The other brings a refreshing medley of spices along with a nuttiness of hazelnuts that have an intensity before finally releasing a warmth with hints of masculine smokiness. Long, sweet and fruity.
Adding water did nothing to enhance this whisky. Not recommended.
In subsequent tastings, the whisky became much tamer. Oxygen isn't a friend of this scotch. Some whiskies seem almost impervious to oxidation. The flavour continues to be the same after opening.
Soon after, Royal Salute grows more oakey, sweet, smooth, while losing the spiciness and complexity that was initially impressive upon opening.
The Age Statement Illusion
Drinking Royal Salute brings to mind age statement illusion. Whisky companies would love you to think that older whisky is better whisky. Definitely not so. Royal Salute is living evidence of that.
You think that because you are paying additional money for this older whisky it ought to be better, but you know what? It's not better. It's boring. It cloyingly sweet, yep, it can be. There isn't much complexity, almost no peat whatsoever and little or no smoke.
Royal Salute is clearly a whisky that is certainly looking to achieve mass appeal (well for all those masses known as the rich who is able to afford this pancake syrup). Easy drinking, smooth, sweet and wonderfully packaged within a velvet bag.
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