Tag: Whisky

Royal Warrants have long offered glimpses into the private tastes of Britain’s monarchy, with each new list of appointments revealing shifts in drinking preferences at the palace. This December’s announcement of 386 new warrants from King Charles III and Queen Camilla provides fresh insights into the royal cellars.

The list, following 152 warrants issued in May 2024, shows both continuity and change in royal drinking habits. From Scottish single malts to French champagne, the appointments paint a picture of a household that values tradition while embracing new British producers.

Most telling is the strong presence of Scottish spirits, reflecting not just Charles’s personal tastes but a deep royal connection to Scotland’s national drink that spans generations. The warrants also reveal evolving preferences in champagne and a new appreciation for English sparkling wines.

Deep Highland Connections

The King’s appreciation for Scotch whisky has been well-documented throughout his life, most notably marked by his decision to grant Laphroaig a Royal Warrant in 1994 as Prince of Wales. That early passion for peated malts has carried through to his reign, with Laphroaig retaining its warrant alongside an impressive roster of Scottish spirits.

The whisky contingent is particularly strong, with Diageo securing multiple warrants through John Walker & Sons, Royal Lochnagar, and Matthew Gloag & Son’s Famous Grouse. The presence of Royal Lochnagar is particularly significant, given its proximity to Balmoral Castle and its historic royal connections dating back to Queen Victoria.

Dan Mobley, Diageo’s global corporate relations director, noted: “It is a great privilege to supply our products to the Royal Household, and with the granting of these five new Royal Warrants to His Majesty The King, we will display His Majesty’s Royal Arms on these brands with immense pride.”

Champagne Evolution

The royal cellars’ Champagne selection has seen notable changes, though many prestigious houses retain their status. Bollinger, which has held a warrant since Queen Victoria’s reign in 1884, continues its royal connection alongside Veuve Clicquot, Laurent-Perrier, Moët & Chandon, Louis Roederer, and Pol Roger. However, previous warrant holders Mumm, Krug, and Lanson are no longer listed.

In a progressive move reflecting Britain’s evolving wine industry, Camel Valley has maintained its warrant, marking continued royal recognition for English sparkling wine. The Cornwall-based producer’s Special Reserve 2015 was even served at a state banquet for South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol in late 2023.

Traditional Spirits and Merchants

The King’s appreciation for classic spirits is evident in warrants for Tanqueray Gordon & Company, while Martini vermouth and Thomas Hine & Co cognac maintain their royal connections. The Pimm’s Company’s warrant ensures the traditional summer drink’s continued presence at royal garden parties.

Historic wine merchants feature prominently, with Justerini & Brooks leading a distinguished group that includes Berry Bros. & Rudd, Lea & Sandeman, and Walker & Wodehouse. J&B’s relationship with the crown dates remarkably to George III’s coronation in 1761.

Royal Tastes Revealed

The warrant list offers fascinating insights into royal drinking preferences. The strong Scottish presence reflects not just Charles’s personal connection to Scotland but a broader royal appreciation for premium Scotch whisky. The retention of traditional houses like Bollinger alongside newer additions like Camel Valley suggests a balance between maintaining historic connections and embracing contemporary British producers.

The selection of ports (Taylor’s and Graham’s) and fine cognacs indicates the continuation of after-dinner drinking traditions, while the presence of both Tanqueray and Gordon’s hints at the King’s reported preference for a classic gin and tonic.

Perhaps most telling is the balance between luxury and tradition. While super-premium brands feature heavily, there’s also room for more accessible names like Famous Grouse, suggesting that while the royal palate may be refined, it isn’t exclusively focused on the most expensive options.

Complete List of 2024 Royal Warrant Holders in Spirits and Wine

Sparkling Wine

• Camel Valley Vineyards (England)

Champagne

• Bollinger
• Laurent-Perrier
• Louis Roederer
• Moët & Chandon
• Pol Roger
• Veuve Clicquot

Port

• Graham’s (Symington Family Estates)
• Taylor’s (The Fladgate Partnership)

Scotch Whisky

• John Walker & Sons (Johnnie Walker)
• The Famous Grouse (Matthew Gloag & Son Ltd.)
• The Lochnagar Distillery T/A Royal Lochnagar
• Laphroaig Distillery (Suntory Global Spirits)

Gin

• Juniper Green Trophy Organic Gin
• Tanqueray Gordon & Company Ltd. (Tanqueray, Gordon’s)

Vermouth & Aperitifs

• Martini Vermouth (Bacardi-Martini Limited)
• The Pimm’s Company