Johnnie Walker Platinum Label Whisky Review/Tasting

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: The whisky is part of the Johnnie Walker collection, a renowned Scotch whisky brand.
Type: It is a blended Scotch whisky.
Distillation & Maturation: The Platinum Label is aged for 18 years, which is a significant detail considering the brand's transition from age statements to no-age-statement products for some of their other labels.
Color & Bottle Design: The Platinum Label maintains the iconic Johnnie Walker bottle style, with a striding figure on the label. The reviewed bottle is part of a set, indicating a uniform design across different expressions. The Platinum Label specifically had a more luxurious presentation in its larger format, with a thicker, heavier bottom, signifying its premium status.

General Profile: Rich, full, with a Speyside style, subtly smoky, with developments into smoke, malty cereal, and smooth creamy vanilla.
Balance of Flavors: The whisky offers a balance between sweetness (vanilla, sweet oranges, clementines) and smokiness, with a hint of maltiness. It is described as having a little more smoke compared to the Gold Label Reserve, yet not overwhelmingly so.
Unique Characteristics: The Platinum Label is noted for its easy drinking nature, without being too demanding or complex, making it accessible yet premium.

Master Blenders: The role of master blenders, including the current one, Jimmy Beveridge, is highlighted, emphasizing their importance in the blending process.
Historical Bottlings: An interesting anecdote is shared about private bottlings for directors and special gatherings, dating back to 1820, where more malt and aroma were added to these exclusive blends.

The Platinum Label carries the legacy of Johnnie Walker's historical practices of creating special blends for important persons, suggesting a tradition of excellence and exclusivity.

Horst Luening's Opinion: He describes the Platinum Label as "dangerously good," emphasizing its quality and the challenge in resisting its smooth and inviting flavor profile.
Comparison: Luening compares the Platinum Label to other expressions within the Johnnie Walker range, noting its unique position and flavor profile among them.

The Johnnie Walker Platinum Label is an 18-year-old blended Scotch whisky with a rich, full flavor profile that leans towards a Speyside style.
It offers a balance of subtle smokiness, malty cereal, and creamy vanilla, with additional notes of sweet oranges and clementines.
The whisky's story is enriched by anecdotes about the role of master blenders and the tradition of creating special blends for exclusive audiences.
The Platinum Label is praised for its easy-drinking nature and premium quality, making it a standout within the Johnnie Walker collection.

For the Whisky Enthusiast: The rich history and the master blending process behind the Platinum Label make it a must-try.
For the Casual Drinker: Its easy-drinking nature and balanced flavor profile make it accessible and enjoyable, even for those not typically inclined towards smoky whiskies.
For the Collector: The significance of the Platinum Label as a replacement for the older Gold Label and its luxurious presentation in larger formats may appeal to collectors looking for noteworthy additions to their collection.