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Secrets behind the Success | Series 7: "Chivas Regal" Master Blender Colin Scott Gallery

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Secrets behind the Success | Series 7: "Chivas Regal" Master Blender Colin Scott Gallery

Chivas Regal Master Blender Colin Scott

“The name ‘Scotch Whisky’ is a title, in a way, given only to whisky made in Scotland. And it’s loved by millions worldwide. Scotch whisky is a source of pride and something very special for Scots.”

“Malt whisky, made solely from malted barley; grain whisky, made from grains like corn and wheat along with malt; and blended whisky, which combines the two. Whiskies are broadly classified into these three types, and each has its own distinct character.” Glenfiddich distillery, Dufftown, Grampian, Scotland. © VisitBritain / Britain on View

“The most distinctive feature of blended whisky, to which Chivas Regal belongs, is its rich flavor. The moment it touches your palate, a complex aroma fills your mouth.”

“Chivas Regal Mizunara Special Edition,” released in 2013. This is a special blend crafted for Japanese consumers, using a carefully selected combination of the finest single malt and grain whiskies, each aged for over 12 years.

“The allure of whisky making lies in the ability to create countless aromas—vanilla, herbs, fruits, nuts—from just three natural ingredients: barley, yeast, and water.”

“Whisky has always been a part of my life since I was old enough to remember. Even now, decades later, what continues to captivate me is that while they are all called Scotch whisky, each one possesses a completely unique character.”

“This profession demands a highly specialized knowledge. First and foremost, the ability to distinguish and identify a vast array of scents is essential.”

“Another crucial skill is the ability to observe how casks mature over time and to discern, using both nose and palate, what kind of whisky will result from blending them.” Whisky tasting, The Scotch Whisky Society, Leith, Lothian, Scotland. © VisitBritain / Britain on View

“Of these, the sense of smell is the most important. It can take about ten years to master the ability to distinguish the aromas of different casks, and further training is needed to accurately judge changes over time and the resulting flavors after blending.” (Photo: Mr. Scott tasting with a ‘nosing glass’ in hand)

“Essential tools for a blender, besides the nose, include a ‘nosing glass,’ a special glass for tasting, and a blending room. This room has no telephone or computer. It contains only the nosing glass and a comfortable chair. It’s a vital space for concentrating solely on the taste and aroma of the whisky.”

“In Edinburgh, there’s a favorite bar of mine called ‘The Dome.’ It has a classic exterior, as it was converted from an old bank, but the interior is incredibly modern.”

“I find it to be a wonderful establishment, with a superb balance between traditional and contemporary elements.”

“Traditionally, people in Scotland preferred pubs over bars, mainly for drinking beer. However, recently, cocktail bars, where cocktails are the main focus, have been increasing. People are gradually shifting from pubs to cocktail bars.”

“This bar, ‘The Dome,’ embodies that trend, yet the building itself is very classic. I appreciate that blend of styles.”

“I don’t smoke. On weekdays, I avoid spicy foods, garlic, and anything that might strongly affect my sense of smell. By minimizing external influences, I strive to keep my olfactory senses consistently fresh.”

Mr. Scott often goes salmon fishing on his days off. Fishing in the reservoir, Watch Water, Borders, Scotland. © VisitBritain / Britain on View

“I enjoy the entire process: going to the river and waiting for the salmon to arrive.” A small boat moored on Loch Fyne at Tarbert in Strathclyde. © VisitBritain / Britain on View

“Sometimes I catch a large salmon, around 10 kilograms. Usually, they are about 5 kilograms.” Fisherman With Tay Salmon Kenmore Tayside, Kenmore, Tayside, Scotland. © VisitBritain / Britain on View

Secrets behind the Success｜Part 7: Chivas Regal Master Blender Colin Scott

“When there’s an important occasion, I wear traditional Scottish attire. It’s a custom born from my deep affection for my homeland.”

Traditional Scottish attire. Man with bagpipes, Eilean Donan Castle, Highlands, Scotland, UK. © VisitBritain / Britain on View

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Secrets behind the Success｜Part 7: Chivas Regal Master Blender Colin Scott Gallery

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