Royal Salute is a name that stands out in the world of luxury whisky. Known for its rich heritage, exceptional aging, and elegant packaging, it is often chosen for special occasions or as a prestigious gift. But one of the most common questions among whisky enthusiasts and new buyers alike is: how much is Royal Salute whisky? The answer depends on several factors, including the age statement, edition, rarity, and where you buy it. This topic explores the pricing of Royal Salute whisky in detail, from standard offerings to collectible releases, giving you a clear understanding of what to expect when investing in a bottle.
What Is Royal Salute Whisky?
Royal Salute is a premium Scotch whisky brand produced by Chivas Brothers, part of the Pernod Ricard group. It was launched in 1953 in honour of Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation and has maintained a reputation for refinement and tradition. Every expression of Royal Salute is aged for at least 21 years, which makes it unique among blended Scotch whiskies.
Crafted from a selection of the finest malt and grain whiskies, Royal Salute is aged in oak casks for decades, resulting in a complex flavour profile with smooth texture, rich notes of fruit, spice, and smoke, and a long finish. Its signature porcelain flagon and regal branding make it instantly recognizable.
How Much Is Royal Salute Whisky?
The price of Royal Salute whisky varies significantly depending on the edition. The core range starts at a few hundred pounds, while limited editions or older age statements can reach thousands of pounds. Here’s a breakdown of the main expressions and what they typically cost.
Royal Salute 21 Year Old Signature Blend
This is the most commonly available expression in the Royal Salute range. It is known for its smooth and balanced character, with notes of ripe pears, citrus, and a gentle smokiness. It’s sold in different coloured ceramic decanters sapphire, emerald, and ruby each representing the crown jewels.
- Average price in the UK: £130 £180
- Global price range: $150 $220 USD
Prices may vary slightly depending on packaging, availability, and the retailer. Some special gift box editions may cost more due to enhanced presentation.
Royal Salute 25 Year Old ‘The Treasured Blend’
This expression builds on the heritage of the original blend, offering deeper, richer flavours with notes of sweet stewed fruits, spices, and oak. It is designed for those who want something more complex than the 21-year-old edition.
- Average price: £280 £350
Although less widely available than the 21-year-old, it can still be found in luxury whisky retailers and select online shops.
Royal Salute 32 Year Old ‘Union of the Crowns’
This limited edition was created to celebrate the unification of the Scottish and English crowns. Aged for at least 32 years, this blend offers layered complexity with notes of dark chocolate, dried fruits, and subtle spices.
- Typical price: £500 £700
Because of its limited production, availability may vary, and prices can fluctuate depending on demand.
Royal Salute 38 Year Old ‘Stone of Destiny’
Named after the coronation stone of Scottish monarchs, this ultra-premium expression comes in a dark granite-effect porcelain bottle with gold detailing. The whisky itself is rich, elegant, and full of depth.
- Price range: £750 £1,200
This is a collector’s favourite, and often displayed rather than consumed, making it both a luxury item and a conversation piece.
Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute
This is the pinnacle of the core Royal Salute lineup. It is a blend of the oldest and rarest whiskies in the Chivas Brothers inventory. The name is inspired by the traditional 62-gun salute reserved for the most significant royal celebrations.
- Typical price: £2,500 £3,500
Housed in a hand-blown, hand-cut crystal decanter with 24-carat gold accents, this whisky is as much about presentation as it is about flavour and legacy.
Limited Editions and Collectors’ Releases
In addition to its core range, Royal Salute frequently releases limited edition bottles tied to events, artists, or global themes. These editions are often highly collectible and can significantly increase in value over time.
Examples of Limited Editions
- Royal Salute Polo Edition: £120 £160
- Royal Salute Richard Quinn Edition: £200 £300
- Royal Salute Snow Polo Edition: £150 £220
- Royal Salute Royal Wedding Commemorative Editions: £300 £1,000+
Prices for these bottles can fluctuate based on market demand, rarity, and packaging design. Many collectors seek them out not only for the whisky but for their artistic and commemorative value.
Buying Royal Salute in the UK
Royal Salute is available at many high-end wine and spirits retailers, both online and in physical stores. You can also find it at airport duty-free shops, where prices may be slightly lower or come with travel-exclusive packaging. Major stores such as Harrods, Selfridges, and The Whisky Exchange regularly stock multiple expressions of Royal Salute.
Online platforms may also offer bulk-buy discounts, loyalty rewards, or seasonal sales. If you’re purchasing as a gift, many retailers include options for engraving, gift wrapping, or premium boxes for an added fee.
How to Get the Best Value
- Compare prices across multiple online retailers
- Shop during holiday promotions or sales
- Buy from duty-free shops if traveling internationally
- Join whisky clubs or mailing lists for exclusive discounts
- Consider limited editions if you’re also interested in collectibility
Since Royal Salute bottles can vary in price by region and availability, taking a few minutes to compare offers can result in significant savings especially on older or rarer expressions.
Is Royal Salute Worth the Price?
Royal Salute is not a budget whisky it’s designed to appeal to those who appreciate aged, luxury spirits. But if you value craftsmanship, rich flavour, elegant packaging, and heritage, it offers a premium experience that matches its price point. It’s particularly ideal for gifts, celebratory toasts, or expanding a high-end whisky collection.
For those just starting out, the 21-Year-Old Signature Blend offers excellent value as an introduction to the brand. More experienced drinkers may enjoy the complexity and character of the 32 or 38-year-old expressions, while collectors will be drawn to the rare and beautifully crafted limited editions.
The cost of Royal Salute whisky can range from around £130 for the 21-Year-Old Signature Blend to over £3,000 for the prestigious 62 Gun Salute. Limited editions and collector’s items may sit anywhere in between. While it’s not an everyday whisky for most, Royal Salute is prized for its legacy, depth, and craftsmanship. Whether you’re buying to sip, gift, or collect, understanding the price range and what influences it will help you make the most informed choice.