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.