Johnnie Walker Green Label

Johnnie Walker Green Label Review

Physical Whisky Characteristics

  • Origin: Scotland, incorporating whiskies from various distilleries.
  • Type: Blended Malt Scotch Whisky.
  • Distillation & Maturation: A blend of malt whiskies from different distilleries, aged 15 years.
  • ABV: 43%.
  • Color & Clarity: Not explicitly described, but mentions the use of caramel color for consistency.
  • Bottle Design: Described as heavy and thick, with a high-quality appearance. The design is slightly sharper on the edges compared to the pre-2012 version.

Whisky Flavor Profile

  • Balance of Flavors: A complex aroma with a balance of smokiness (8-10 ppm), fruitiness, maltiness, sweetness, and spiciness. The whisky is noted for its smoothness and complexity.
  • Unique Characteristics: The blend includes Talisker (for power and a peppery note), Linkwood (for finesse and a garden of fruit scents), Craigellachie (for a balanced, malty taste), and Caol Ila (for smokiness and a rich fruit profile).
  • Comparison: The new version (post-2016) is compared to the pre-2012 version, with the newer one having more volume, power, and a more pronounced smokiness and peppery character.

Whisky Storytelling

  • Reintroduction: The Green Label was reintroduced to the market after being discontinued in 2012 due to shortages of key whiskies like Caol Ila.
  • Distillery Insights: Insights into the contributing distilleries (Talisker, Linkwood, Craigellachie, and Caol Ila) and their roles in the blend are shared, highlighting the craftsmanship behind the blend.

Cultural or Geographical Significance

  • Blended Malt Category: The whisky represents the blended malt category, which emphasizes the art of blending malt whiskies from different distilleries to achieve a unique flavor profile.
  • Distillery Heritage: The selection of whiskies from iconic distilleries like Talisker and Caol Ila adds to the cultural and geographical significance, showcasing Scotland's diverse whisky-producing regions.

Expert Opinions and Noteworthy Quotes

  • "A wonderful piece of work with 15 years of age, which is quite rare today, to an uncompetable price."
  • "For a lover of malt whisky, it is a wonderful piece of work."
  • "Whenever you're able to find those bottles on the shelf of your local dealer, buy a few of them."

Summary

  • Johnnie Walker Green Label is a blended malt Scotch whisky, aged 15 years, with a complex flavor profile.
  • It includes whiskies from Talisker, Linkwood, Craigellachie, and Caol Ila, each contributing unique characteristics to the blend.
  • The whisky was reintroduced to the market after a hiatus, with the new version offering more volume and power compared to the pre-2012 version.
  • The blend is praised for its craftsmanship, complexity, and value, making it a recommended purchase for whisky enthusiasts.

Recommendations for Different User Profiles

  • For Whisky Enthusiasts: The complexity and craftsmanship of the blend make it a must-try.
  • For Collectors: The story of its discontinuation and reintroduction, along with its unique blend, adds collectible value.
  • For Beginners: Its balanced flavor profile and smoothness make it an accessible entry into blended malt whiskies.
  • For Value Seekers: The quality-to-price ratio is highlighted as exceptional, making it a great addition to any bar.