In the mystical Golden Triangle in the western Rajasthan desert is a walled city with an ancient fort in the centre. Snake your way through ancient roads past cerulean blue buildings guided by the smells of incense and roses. This is Jodhpur, an ancient and intriguing place also known as the Blue City, and the birthplace of modern polo.
It was in 1889 that Maharaja Pratap Singh invited Colonel Stuart Beatson of the Bengal Lancers to promote the profile of the local polo team, the Jodhpur Lancers. In tribute to their legacy, purveyors of excellent Scotch whisky Royal Salute, chose the birthplace of modern polo for the fifth release in Royal Salute’s renowned Polo Collection.
The liquid evokes the magic of a Jodhpur night with its iconic Polo Collection and the Indian city’s fine sporting history. The result is a blend of Rajasthani culture and its close association with the British Monarchy. Indeed, Royal Salute was first crafted for the late Her Majesty the Queen Elizabeth II, and first launched on 2 June 1953 in tribute to her coronation. Named after the ceremonial 21-gun salute that is fired from the Tower of London to mark special royal occasions, Royal Salute whiskies are aged for a minimum of 21 years.
Royal Salute seamlessly blends traditionalism and modernity with new and innovative expressions that stay true to its rich heritage. As a brand, it celebrates creativity through enchanting partnerships with a diverse selection of creatives in the luxury lifestyle space from artists to fashion designers, inviting new audiences into the wondrous world of Royal Salute.
Expertly crafted by the Royal Salute master blender, Sandy Hyslop, and endorsed by the Royal Salute World Polo ambassador and renowned polo player, Malcolm Borwick, the 21 Year Old Jodhpur Polo Edition is inspired by the rich spices and flavours of India and is a unique blend of carefully curated malt whiskies, which have been fully finished in virgin oak casks.
The result is a whisky unlike any other, with notes of sweet mangos and coconut, rich caramel and warming cinnamon cloves leading to a long and spicy finish. It is an elegant drink which should be drank to mark special occasions and is the epitome of luxury living.
“I always focus on telling the story of an expression when I am crafting a new release and so I was naturally drawn towards the iconic flavours of India,” said Hyslop. “To honour these spices and aromas, I wanted this bespoke blend to have notes of sweet mango chutney and a spicy finish, to compliment the richness. With every sip, this expression transports you to the magic of Jodhpur.”
Shining a light on the Blue City, the 21-Year-Old Jodhpur Polo Edition is housed in Royal Salute’s signature flagon, coloured in a vibrant yellow that contrasts with the stunning blue box. The design is reminiscent of a magical night in Jodhpur, with a majestic Indian palace as the central focus overlooked by a large golden moon, stars, and the twinkling lights of the city.
Borwick added: “Having played polo in Jodhpur numerous times, the city holds a dear place in my heart. It has a strong history with the sport and is referred to as one of the oldest homes of the modern game. This rich equestrian heritage, along with its spectacular historic architecture and its blue houses, makes it a fitting destination to honour with the exceptional 21 Year Old Jodhpur Polo Edition. I really look forward to enjoying a dram of the new release on the side-lines after a polo match in the Blue City.”
For those who haven’t yet experienced this memorable Scotch, a single sip will transport you to the realm of palaces and polo. The blues of the cityscape are mirrored in the blue gift packaging, featuring exquisite art work to depict the enchantment of Jodpur. The bottle itself is in a vibrant yellow and the liquid is golden. This is a whisky to be savoured for a special occasion and an heirloom to be treasured. The Royal Salute 21 Year Old Jodhpur Polo Edition has a RRP of £160.
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