Royal Salute Unveils Luxurious New Whisky Collection in Collaboration with Designer Harris Reed

In an elegant fusion of fashion and fine spirits, Royal Salute has launched its latest expression in Malaysia – the Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Harris Reed Edition. The new release, unveiled at an exclusive event at Michelin-Selected Skillet KL on 14 January 2025, marks an innovative collaboration between the prestigious Scotch whisky maker and celebrated fashion designer Harris Reed, known for pushing creative boundaries in the luxury lifestyle space.

The collaboration, representing the next chapter of Royal Salute’s Fashion Collection, began at Scotland’s historic Strathisla Distillery in Speyside, where Reed joined Royal Salute Master Blender Sandy Hyslop for a private blending session. Together, they crafted this distinctive 21-Year-Old blend, combining traditional expertise with contemporary innovation.

This collaboration represents a significant milestone for both Royal Salute and Harris Reed, bringing together the worlds of luxury spirits and high fashion in a unique and compelling way. The partnership not only celebrates the craftsmanship and heritage of Royal Salute but also showcases Reed’s innovative approach to design and his commitment to pushing creative boundaries in the luxury space.

Reed, renowned for his demi-couture designs, gender-fluid fashion, and impressive A-list celebrity following, has created three striking flagon designs for the collection. Each features a dramatic crown-inspired motif adorned with feathers, offering a contemporary interpretation of Royal Salute’s regal heritage. The designs come in three distinct colourways, each appealing to both fashion enthusiasts and collectors.

“I always strive to focus my creativity on magnifying what’s on the inside, and diving into the depths of Royal Salute’s unique heritage and our shared passion for craft and pushing creative boundaries became a rich source of inspiration throughout our collaboration. Luxury is something to collect and treasure, and I am so delighted to share such an exceptional whisky that can be enjoyed and talked about around the globe.”
Harris Reed

The whisky itself represents a masterful blend of Royal Salute’s finest stocks. At its heart is sherry-matured Braeval whisky, which contributes rich notes of raisins and spice. This is complemented by malts aged in American oak barrels, chosen specifically for their enhanced fruit and sweet notes. The addition of a rare grain whisky finished in charred virgin oak barrels introduces layers of vanilla and a luxuriously creamy texture, creating a harmonious and sophisticated blend.

The Malaysian launch event at Skillet KL showcased the brand’s commitment to excellence through a carefully curated culinary experience. Guests enjoyed a specially designed menu paired with various Royal Salute expressions, including the new Harris Reed Edition, the 21-Year-Old Signature Blend, and the 24-Year-Old Cognac Cask. Scotch Whisky Ambassador Iona McEwan guided attendees through an exploration of these distinguished whiskies, highlighting their unique characteristics and complexity.

To elevate the collaboration further, Reed has designed an exclusive fashion collection featuring three distinct looks inspired by the flagon designs, complete with his signature bespoke headpieces. The campaign reached new creative heights with acclaimed female director Ruth Hogben capturing Reed’s creative journey, culminating in iconic supermodel Erin O’Connor wearing a fourth bespoke creation specifically designed for Royal Salute.

The whisky offers an intricate and layered flavour profile. On the nose, it presents notes of fresh red apples, homemade raspberry jam, and crème brûlée, complemented by nutty hazelnut praline, hints of cinnamon, and sweet toasted oak. The palate delivers pear crumble, creamy vanilla fudge, and toasted almonds, while the Sherry-matured Braeval brings notes of raisin, gooseberry jam, lively ginger, and hints of clove. The finish is rich, complex, and spicy, showcasing the exceptional craftsmanship behind this limited edition.

The Royal Salute 21-Year-Old Harris Reed Edition in Blue will be available exclusively at Kuala Lumpur International Airport for RM1,335. The Fuchsia and Gold editions will be sold at select retail outlets from mid-December, priced from RM1,343 in West Malaysia and RM1,369 in East Malaysia.