For Charles Leclerc, 16 has always been more than just a number. Now, the number that has followed him throughout his career has inspired his latest collaboration with Chivas Regal.
The Formula 1 driver and Chivas Regal Global Brand Ambassador has teamed up with the luxury Scotch whisky brand to create Chivas Regal 16 Limited-Edition, the first 16-year-old expression in Chivas Regal’s history and Leclerc’s debut signature blend.
Made from 16 whiskies, each aged for at least 16 years, the new release brings Leclerc’s personal story together with Chivas Regal’s whisky-making craft.
From A Challenge To A Signature Blend
The idea began when Leclerc challenged Chivas Regal Master Blender Sandy Hyslop to create something new based on his own vision.
Instead of simply putting his name on the bottle, Leclerc was involved in the creative process. He explored several whiskies and was particularly drawn to the rich character of sherry cask-matured Longmorn single malt.
He later travelled to Scotland to experience the whisky-making process first-hand, visit the distilleries and understand the work that goes into each cask. After choosing his preferred blend, Leclerc had one final request: make it a 16-year-old whisky.
“16 has always been more than a number to me, it’s something I’ve carried my whole career,” Leclerc shared.
For both Leclerc and Chivas Regal, the collaboration is built around a similar mindset: setting high standards, challenging yourself and always looking for ways to improve.
Hyslop also explained that Leclerc was actively involved throughout the process, making decisions and challenging ideas until they created a blend that represented both of them.
So, What Does Chivas Regal 16 Taste Like?
The new whisky brings together sweet, fruity and warm flavours.
On the nose, sweet mandarin, raisins, and manuka honey are followed by hints of warm cinnamon and sticky toffee.
The palate moves from orange marmalade and apple cake into toasted oak, and ginger spice, before ending with a finish described as rich, velvety and long.
The final blend reflects the rich and layered characters Leclerc was drawn to during the creation process while staying true to the style of Chivas Regal.
Leclerc And Hyslop Celebrate Their Creation In Miami
Ahead of the Grand Prix in Miami, Leclerc and Hyslop came together to showcase Chivas Regal 16 for the first time.
During an intimate conversation, the pair looked back at how the whisky was created, from the challenges they gave each other to the decisions that eventually shaped the final bottle.
The moment celebrated more than the finished blend. It also highlighted the shared idea behind the collaboration: there is always another level to reach.
Chivas Regal 16 Is Coming To Malaysia
Malaysian fans will not have to wait long to try Leclerc’s first signature blend.
Chivas Regal 16-year-old will be available in Malaysia from 1st October with a recommended retail price of RM425. It can be purchased through the official Pernod Ricard Malaysia Shopee store.
For the latest updates, consumers can also follow Chivas Malaysia on Facebook or visit the Chivas Regal Malaysia website.
