Charles Leclerc and Chivas Regal have created a unique blend, a 16-year-old blended Scotch, inspired by the Formula 1 driver’s career.
Following their partnership launched in 2025, when Charles Leclerc became the brand’s ambassador, the fruit of the collaboration between Chivas Regal and the Monegasque driver was long awaited. And it was well worth the wait !
A whiskey built around the number 16
At the heart of this project lies a central symbol : the number 16. It is both Charles Leclerc’s race number and a powerful personal reference, linked in particular to his date of birth. This number served as the guiding thread throughout the entire whisky creation process.
The whisky is thus based on a blend of sixteen different whiskies, each aged for at least sixteen years. For the brand, this is an unprecedented and innovative venture, breaking with its previous releases.
Charles Leclerc, for his part, did not settle for a symbolic role: he was directly involved in developing the blend, working closely with master blender Sandy Hyslop. Together, they selected whiskies with complementary profiles to create a rich aromatic signature.
“My trip to Scotland, visiting the distilleries, and understanding the passion that drives every cask inspired me to create my own blend. Chivas Regal and I share the same conviction : the level we’ve reached today is just a starting point. I encouraged Sandy to push the boundaries. He inspired me to look at things differently,” said Charles Leclerc.
A rich and structured sensory experience
The blend notably features a Longmorn single malt aged in sherry casks, personally selected by the driver during a visit to Scotland.
The result is a whisky described as full-bodied and velvety, characterized by rich and spicy notes. Aromas of honey, ripe fruit, and dried fruit blend with hints of caramel, chocolate, and citrus.
Sandy Hyslop, master blender at Chivas, was quick to praise the driver’s involvement in crafting this drink : “Charles didn’t just put his name on it. He was there, making decisions, standing up for his ideas. He was drawn to the character that defines Chivas Regal : rich, complex, and deeply layered. What we created together is a blend that undeniably belongs to him—and to us just as much.”
The whisky is being released as a limited edition, accompanied by marketing initiatives and immersive experiences set to unfold throughout 2026.
Read also > How has Formula 1 become the sport of choice for luxury brands ?
Featured photo : © Chivas Regal
