The iconic Tower of London is now home to the newly unveiled Royal Salute Chamber, which is located in the historic 13th-century Martin Tower. This space promises to provide an unparalleled sanctuary for whisky aficionados, offering an immersive exploration into the brand’s luxurious Scotch whisky portfolio.
As soon as you step inside the Martin Tower, you’ll be transported into a world of regal history that spans centuries. The atmosphere exudes grandeur and has been meticulously curated to captivate all who enter. Through a collaboration with Historic Royal Palaces, Royal Salute has managed to preserve the tower’s historical essence while infusing it with an otherworldly allure. The walls are adorned with intricate illustrations of the royal menagerie that once roamed the Tower, evoking a sense of whimsical enchantment. Additionally, a digital interactive tasting table stands as a modern marvel, poised to guide guests on a sensory journey through time, seamlessly blending cutting-edge technology with historical reverence.
The pièce de résistance of the Royal Salute Chamber is the ‘Treasures Collection,’ a veritable Aladdin’s cave of rare blends that spans the breadth of Royal Salute’s extensive portfolio. This whisky library is a haven for connoisseurs, offering the rarest of opportunities to create bespoke tastings from an array of beloved classics, limited-edition collaborations, and high-aged whiskies traditionally reserved for the private cask programme.
At the heart of this whisky library is the prestigious new 62 Gun Salute collection by Royal Salute. This trio of exceptional blends embodies the ultimate tribute to honour and celebration. Drawing inspiration from Royal Salute’s regal heritage, the collection evokes the grandeur of the 62 Gun Salute ceremony, the highest form of ceremonial honour bestowed by the British Monarchy.
Royal Salute’s Master Blender, Sandy Hyslop, has masterfully crafted two new expressions to complement the existing and award-winning 62 Gun Salute Original Reserve. Each new blend offers a distinct yet enchanting experience. The American Oak Reserve boasts a vibrancy that mirrors the ceremony’s intensity, while The Peated Reserve captures the subtle smokiness that lingers over London after the salute. These exquisite whiskies promise a powerful and enduring flavour experience.
“The crafting process was meticulous,” says Hyslop. “We aimed to capture the essence of a true 62 Gun Salute ceremony in these blends. The collection offers a beautifully complex and well-rounded flavour profile, creating a multi-sensory experience that reflects the significance of the occasion.”
Central to this whisky library are two magnificent cabinets, historically used to protect the Cullinan and Koh-i-Noor diamonds. Today, they safeguard the newly unveiled Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute collection, a trio of exceptional blends inspired by the grandeur of the 62 Gun Salute. For the first time, all three expressions are available for a side-by-side tasting, exclusively at the Royal Salute Chamber, before their global release.
Every facet of the 62 Gun Salute collection exudes elegance and wonder. From the piano lacquered boxes to the gemstone-hued decanters, each element is meticulously designed. The sophisticated and sculptural designs adorning the boxes pay homage to the ceremony’s dynamism and the precious blends within. The Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute Original Reserve and The American Oak Reserve are now available at select retailers globally and at The Whisky Exchange, priced at USD 3,000 and USD 3,300, respectively. The Peated Reserve, initially available exclusively in duty-free airports, will soon be rolled out globally at USD 3,300.
The Royal Salute experience at the Tower of London, available now, is by invitation only, underscoring the exclusivity of this extraordinary opportunity. Guests will be treated to a private tour of the Crown Jewels, followed by a sensory exploration of bespoke fragrances crafted by Master Perfumer Barnabé Fillion, inspired by the Royal Salute 62 Gun Salute Collection. The journey culminates in a comparative and interactive tasting of the new 62 Gun Salute Collection, alongside access to the prestigious ‘Treasures Collection.’
Royal Salute’s dedication to craftsmanship and tradition, combined with innovative expression, is beautifully showcased in this new venture. Created in 1953 to celebrate the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II, Royal Salute continues to blend traditionalism with modernity, inviting new audiences into its enchanting world.
For those fortunate enough to secure an invitation, the Royal Salute Chamber at the Tower of London promises an unforgettable journey through the history, heritage, and exceptional quality that define the Royal Salute.
Discover more at Royal Salute.
All imagery courtesy of Royal Salute.