Whisky Review/Tasting: Johnnie Walker XR 21 years

Physical Whisky Characteristics

Origin: Produced by Johnnie Walker, the largest Scotch whisky producer worldwide.
Type: Blended Scotch Whisky.
Distillation & Maturation Process: Aged for 21 years, sourced from the private reserves of the master blender, Jimmy Beveridge.
Age Statement: 21 years old, making it one of the oldest available Johnny Walker whiskies.
Color & Clarity: Described as a wonderful golden liquid, though it's mentioned it might be artificially colored.
Bottle Design: Heavy bottle with a thick glass bottom, intricately crafted, uniquely numbered, reflecting the uncompromising attention to detail. The design includes the shape of the Order of the British Empire.

Balance of Flavors: Smooth, mellow, elegant, and complex with a medium to long aftertaste.
Unique Characteristics: Notable for its huge fruitiness without specific fruits being identifiable, light vanilla, and absence of bitterness typically found in grain whisky due to old soaked-out casks.
Comparison: The malt character suggests a blend of approximately 70% malt and 30% grain, indicating a stronger malt presence than in many blends but still maintaining a smooth grain smoothness.

Anecdotes: Created in honor of Sir Alexander Walker's knighthood in 1920 for his contributions to spreading whisky globally and bringing income to the British Empire. The XR (Extra Rare) designation and the bottle's design elements pay homage to his knighthood and the Order of the British Empire.

Historical Context: Sir Alexander Walker played a pivotal role in the global spread of Scotch whisky and was recognized with a knighthood for his efforts. The whisky celebrates this legacy and the continued royal warrant held by John Walker and Sons since 1934.

Johnnie Walker XR 21 years is a blended Scotch whisky aged for 21 years, celebrating Sir Alexander Walker's knighthood.
It features a complex flavor profile with a significant fruitiness, light vanilla, and a smooth, mellow finish without the bitterness often found in grain whisky.
The whisky is presented in a heavy, intricately crafted bottle, uniquely numbered, and includes design elements related to the Order of the British Empire.
It is a tribute to Sir Alexander Walker's contributions to the whisky industry and the British Empire, reflecting his legacy of excellence.
Expert opinions highlight its elegance, complexity, and suitability for those appreciating a refined whisky experience.

Whisky Collectors: Given its unique numbering and limited availability, collectors would find this a valuable addition.
Experienced Whisky Enthusiasts: Those with a palate for aged, complex blends would appreciate its depth and craftsmanship.
Gift Seekers: An excellent, prestigious gift for significant occasions, especially for those who value historical and cultural significance in their whisky.
New Whisky Drinkers: Might be a bit advanced and pricey for beginners, but a great aspirational bottle to work up to.