THE CHIVAS STORY
CHAPTER I

Chivas Brothers

Visionaries? Connoisseurs? Artisans? Entrepreneurs? Philanthropists?

The Chivas Brothers were a fine blend of each, much like the whisky they pioneered.

The journey the brothers embarked upon back in the day doesn’t have a final destination. We are still on the journey today.

Humble beginnings, but a landscape full of character and possibility.

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THE BROTHER’S JOURNEY

Growing up on a remote Scottish farm, James and John Chivas were acutely aware that the world around them was changing and the idyllic backdrop they called home was no longer big enough to support their desire to make a difference.

Following a three-day journey on foot, the brothers found themselves in Aberdeen. A city that perfectly matched their ambition.

Finding gainful employment at an Aberdeen emporium James was quickly captivated by a whole new world of tastes, smells and exquisite flavours. Anything seemed possible and James quickly garnered a reputation for obtaining the unobtainable.

If they didn't stock it, they'd find it. If they couldn't find it, they'd make it.

When John joined the business Chivas Brothers was born.

The brothers' eye for an astute business opportunity brought them hard earned success in Aberdeen and beyond, but for James & John, success always tasted better shared.

They were generous with their time and their money, from financing a window in an Aberdeen church to James being honoured with a trusteeship of the Royal Infirmary.

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From the cellar beneath their emporium, the brothers began a tradition of ageing whiskies. As their clientele began demanding a smoother, richer whisky experience, they began to blend together these aged Scotch whiskies.

Humble early experiments developed to solidify their position as true pioneers in the art of blending.

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Chivas Brothers became famous for their fine luxury products with orders coming in from across the globe. James Chivas received his first Royal Warrant in 1843, serving Queen Victoria at her Balmoral countryside retreat.

This Royal approval ensured that Chivas Brothers had the perfect foundation to realise their ambition.

View the original warrant

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THE BROTHER’S JOURNEY

THE GROCERY STORE IN ABERDEEN

Presentation and attention to detail abound in the Aberdeen store.