Royal Salute was developed in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of HRH Queen Elizabeth II. An effective, sophisticated and opulent blend, aged for a minimum of 21 years and housed in the classic Wade porcelain flagon, this scotch whisky is called for the tradition from the 21 Gun Salute that is certainly fired at the Tower based in london for Royal celebrations.
The initial sip releases sumptuous sweet orange marmalade flavours infused with fresh pears that burst over the tongue. The other brings an abundant medley of spices as well as a nuttiness of hazelnuts with an intensity before finally releasing a warmth with hints of masculine smokiness. Long, sweet and fruity.
Adding water didn't do anything to further improve this whisky. Not recommended.
In subsequent tastings, the whisky became much tamer. Oxygen is not an friend of the scotch. Some whiskies seem almost impervious to oxidation. The flavor remains the same after opening.
A week later, Royal Salute grows more oakey, sweet, smooth, while losing the spiciness and complexity which was initially impressive upon opening.
This Statement Illusion
Drinking Royal Salute produces in mind this statement illusion. Whisky companies want you to consider that older whisky is better whisky. Certainly not so. Royal Salute is living proof that.
You believe since you are paying more cash because of this older whisky it should be better, but guess what happens? It's not better. It's boring. It cloyingly sweet, yep, it's. There isn't much complexity, without any peat whatsoever and extremely little smoke.
Royal Salute is clearly a whisky which is attempting to achieve mass appeal (well for all those masses called the rich who can afford this pancake syrup). Easy drinking, smooth, sweet and wonderfully packaged in a velvet bag.
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