Scotch whisky Royal Salute has unveiled the first 25-year old expression in its portfolio.

The Treasured Blend, available exclusively in global travel retail from November (RRP $260), joins other permanent additions in the Royal Salute staple, including The Malts Blend, The Lost Blend and The Signature Blend.

Crafted by Master Blender Sandy Hyslop, The Treasured Blend takes its inspiration from the Crown Jewels of England.

Precious whiskies laid down a quarter of a century ago are used to create an expression imparting a ‘decadent sweetness with hints of spices and notes of stewed fruit, treacle, toffee and dark chocolate that culminate in an exceptionally long, dry and slightly spicy finish’.

The whisky is housed in a signature porcelain bottle, with gold detailing and a sapphire jewel stopper metaphoric of the precious stones set within the imperial state crown. Each flagon is individually numbered for added novelty.

PANEL DISCUSSION

Meanwhile, the packaging features an eye-catching illustration from Royal Salute collaborator and artist Kristjana S. Williams that reveals when the double doors open.

It displays animals from the royal menagerie present at a coronation celebration surrounded by the royal regalia at the Tower of London.

Royal Salute Marketing Director Mathieu Deslandes said: “The 25 Year Old Treasured Blend continues Royal Salute’s legacy of distinction for elegantly crafted Scotch whisky. This is a true treasure to discover. Every detail is exquisite; from the precious and powerful liquid itself, to the beautifully crafted porcelain flagon and the luxurious material and intricate design.

“We’re thrilled to continue our celebration of British Royalty with this exceptional new whisky that pays tribute to our esteemed heritage while pushing the boundaries of cutting-edge Scotch whisky innovation.”

The latest Royal Salute incarnation was presented by Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail (PRGTR) during last week’s TFWA World Exhibition & Conference in Cannes.

PRGTR also used the opportunity to host a panel session at the Dior Suite of the Hôtel Barrière Le Majestic on 1 October.

This featured Alexandre Ricard, CEO, Pernod Ricard; Mohit Lal, CEO, Pernod Ricard Global Travel Retail; Carolyn Childs, CEO, My Travel Research; and Mirko Wang, CEO, Jessica’s Secret.

Moderated by drinks writer Neil Ridley, the session touched on travel retail innovation, customer recognition, data and collaboration.

Jessica Secret’s Wang spoke about how the company is acting as a bridge in travel retail to connect brands, retailers and consumers while sharing the company’s ambitions to evolve into a pre-order platform, while Childs talked about the changing face of luxury and how it is attracting travel retail brands.

Watch out for an interview with Pernod Ricard CEO Alexandre Ricard.