The coda in the 62 Gun Salute magnum opus is The Peated Reserve, which is housed in an emerald-green decanter that mirrors the 11 emeralds found in the Imperial State Crown of the United Kingdom. A whisky crafted as a complex amplification of the Original Reserve, it is inspired by the subtle smokiness that drifts and lingers over the city of London after the conclusion of the ceremonial salute.
Hyslop composed this peaty blend with over 50 precious whiskies, including malts from the lost distillery of Caperdonich.
While the smokiness is more subtle on the nose – there is a stronger presence of fruits (think dark cherries and ripe pears) – it is more robust on the palate, which is an intricate layered mix of fruit, warm spice, toasted woodiness and slightly burnt herbs. The distinct sweet and smoky notes are enduring however, lingering long on the palate – supposedly for at least 10 minutes or as long as the duration of a 62 Gun Salute.
Echoing the success of The American Oak Reserve, The 62 Gun Salute Peated Reserve also received a Trophy at IWSC 2024.
Unlike the other two whiskies, The Peated Reserve is a global travel retail exclusive and only available at duty-free airports. It retails for US$3,300 (S$4,464).
The Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute Collection is now available in Singapore for purchase at select retailers that include Grand Cru and The Whisky Distillery. You can also place orders via Pernod Ricard’s VIP Platform Le Cercle. The Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute Original Reserve retails at S$4,000, while The American Oak Reserve is S$4,400.