🥃 Royal Salute 21 Years Old (Old Version)
The “old version” of Royal Salute 21 Years Old represents a collectible era of this iconic premium blend. First introduced in 1953 to mark Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation, it has been produced in multiple decorative flagons and packaging styles over the decades — making the older format especially sought‑after by collectors.
✨ Features & Details
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Brand / Expression: Royal Salute 21 Years Old — “Old Version” (referring to earlier bottling and presentation variants)
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Type: Blended Scotch Whisky
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Region / Origin: Scotland (Produced by Chivas Brothers)
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ABV: 40%
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Bottle Size: Typically 700 ml (0.7 L) standard format for many markets
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Maturation / Cask Details: Whiskies matured at least 21 years before blending; a characteristic of this flagship expression
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Status: Premium blend; the “old version” refers to earlier design flagons (such as ceramic decanters, vintage labels, older tax stamps) which may increase collectible interest
👃 Tasting Notes
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Nose: Sweet floral aromas combined with pears, orchard fruits, vanilla, and a gentle hint of sherry‑oak
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Palate: Rich layered flavours: dried fruits (raisins, apricots), caramel, nutty pecan, mild spice, gentle smoke or peat in the background
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Finish: Long and smooth; lingering oak, sweet fruit aftertaste with subtle spice and elegant dryness
📝 Independent Review Highlights
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Reviewers highlight that this blend, though a mix, punches above many in its category due to the age of components and premium positioning
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The older flagon designs (ceramic, less common colours) are particularly remarked upon by collectors for their aesthetic and historic appeal
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While not extremely rare, the combination of age statement, presentation, and older bottling design gives “old versions” a stronger collectible profile versus standard new releases
🎁 Presentation & Collectibility
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Ideal For: Special occasions, premium gifting, or inclusion in a whisky collection focused on iconic brands and historic bottles
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Serving Suggestion: Enjoy neat or with a drop of water to open up the aromas; due to its age‑statement and premium nature, minimal dilution recommended
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Collectible Notes:
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Older flagons may include ceramic or glazed decanters, unique box/packaging, and distinct tax or import labels depending on market
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Condition is critical: fill level, original seal/cork, box condition, intact label/stamp all affect value significantly
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Because many later bottles exist, an “old version” (especially from 1970s/80s or unique colour flagons) carries a premium in the collector market
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Provenance, clear batch/bottle code information and market‑variant uniqueness (e.g., country‑specific edition) all enhance desirability
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