Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky: History, expressions & how to drink them.

A comprehensive guide to Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky: History, variants, and drinking suggestions

Johnnie Walker is one of the most iconic names in the world of Scotch whisky. Known for its distinctive square bottles and slanted labels, the brand has a rich history and a wide range of expressions that cater to both beginners and connoisseurs. This article explores the history of Johnnie Walker, its various expressions, and provides drinking suggestions for each variant. Whether you are a novice or a seasoned whisky enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate the world of Johnnie Walker with confidence.

Johnnie Walker Masters of Flavour aged 48 years

Crafted from whiskies of Port Dundas, Brora, Glen Albyn, and Glenury Royal (“ghost” distilleries). One of only 288 bottles, it delivers a unique aroma of smoke and molasses, followed by rich fruit and cinnamon spice, ending with caramel, butterscotch, and a warm smoky finish. Best enjoyed neat or with a dash of water. US$49,999.95

The history of Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker’s story began in the early 19th century when John Walker, a farmer’s son, inherited a small grocery store in Kilmarnock, Scotland, after his father’s death. In those days, grocery stores often sold whisky, and John Walker began blending different whiskies to create a consistent and unique flavour profile. This practice laid the foundation for what would become one of the most successful whisky brands in the world.

The brand’s iconic slanted label was introduced by John Walker’s son, Alexander, who wanted to make the bottles stand out on the shelves. The label’s angle also allowed for larger text, making it easier to read. Over the years, Johnnie Walker has grown into a global brand, known for its quality and consistency. Today, Johnnie Walker is a blended Scotch whisky, meaning it combines malt and grain whiskies from different distilleries to create a harmonious and balanced flavour.

Johnnie Walker Red Label

History and profile:

Johnnie Walker Red Label is the entry-level expression in the Johnnie Walker range. It was first introduced in 1909 and has since become one of the best-selling whiskies in the world. The Red Label is a blend of around 35 whiskies, with a focus on lighter, fruitier flavours. It is a non-age statement (NAS) whisky, meaning it does not specify the age of the whiskies used in the blend.

Drinking suggestions:

Johnnie Walker Red Label is best enjoyed in cocktails rather than neat. Its light and slightly smoky profile makes it an excellent base for classic whisky cocktails like the Whisky Sour or the Johnnie & Ginger (a simple mix of Red Label and ginger ale). For a refreshing summer drink, try mixing Red Label with soda water and a slice of lemon.

Johnnie Walker Red Label

Renowned for its characteristic bold flavour, Johnnie Walker Red Label is the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky. With its combination of light whiskies from Scotland’s east coast and dark, peaty whiskies from the west, Red Label is defined by intense, spicy, zingy, edgy flavours. Enjoy it neat, on the rocks, or combined with your favorite mixer. “This is outdoors, this is setting off on your bike along the coast with the wind blowing in your face.” – Dave Broom, Whisky Expert Originally crafted to shine in mixed drinks, Johnnie Walker Red Label is perfect for sociable occasions. Its versatility makes it an exceptional choice for housewarmings, business functions, and other friendly gatherings.

US$29.69

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Johnnie Walker Black Label

History and profile:

Johnnie Walker Black Label, also known as the “12-Year-Old”, is one of the most popular expressions in the Johnnie Walker range. It was first introduced in the early 20th century and has since become a staple in bars and homes around the world. The Black Label is a blend of over 40 whiskies, each aged for at least 12 years. This aging process gives the whisky a rich and complex flavour profile, with notes of smoke, vanilla, and dried fruit.

Drinking suggestions:

Johnnie Walker Black Label is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. It is smooth enough to be sipped neat or on the rocks, but it also works well in cocktails. For a classic whisky experience, try it in an Old Fashioned or a Rob Roy. If you prefer a simpler drink, enjoy it with a splash of water to open up the flavours.

Johnnie Walker Black Label Plus Discovery set

Gift a premium tasting experience of an iconic whisky’s range with Johnnie Walker Black Label Plus Discovery Set. Featuring one bottle of our unmistakably smooth Black Label Blended Scotch Whiskey and mini bottles of Double Black Label, Gold Label Reserve, Aged 18 Years and Blue Label, this gift set offers a chance to explore some of our most cherished blends. Created using only Scotch whiskies aged for a minimum of 12 years from the four corners of Scotland, Johnnie Walker Black Label has an unmistakably smooth, deep, complex character.

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Johnnie Walker Double Black

History and profile:

Johnnie Walker Double Black is a more intense and smoky version of the Black Label. It was initially released as a travel retail exclusive but was later added to the core range due to its popularity. The Double Black is a non-age statement whisky, but it is known for its heavy use of heavily charred oak barrels, which impart a deeper, smokier flavour.

Drinking suggestions:

Johnnie Walker Double Black is best enjoyed neat or with a few drops of water to release its smoky and peaty aromas. It is also a great choice for those who enjoy a smoky whisky in a highball, mixed with soda water or ginger ale. For a more adventurous cocktail, try it in a Smoky Cokey, which combines Double Black with cola and a dash of lime.

Johnnie Walker Double Black®

Indulge all of your senses with a smooth glass of Johnnie Walker Double Black Label Blended Scotch Whisky. Strongly influenced by powerful and peaty West Coast and Islay Single Malts, the intensity is immediately apparent with the taste of smoke and smoldering spices. An impressive blended Scotch to share, whatever the occasion. Perfect for a Highball cocktail. Johnnie Walker Double Black Label was awarded a Double Gold medal at the 2020 San Francisco World Spirits Competition and Johnnie Walker was recognised as one of the world’s top-trending Scotch whiskies at the 2020 Drinks International awards.

US$43.99

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Johnnie Walker Green Label

History and profile:

Johnnie Walker Green Label is a blended malt whisky, meaning it contains only malt whiskies with no grain whiskies. It was first introduced in 1997 and was discontinued in the United States for a period before being reintroduced due to popular demand. The Green Label is a 15-year-old whisky, with each component whisky aged for at least 15 years. It offers a rich and complex flavour profile, with notes of oak, malt, and a hint of smoke.

Drinking suggestions:

Johnnie Walker Green Label is best enjoyed neat or with a splash of water to enhance its complex flavours. It is also a great choice for whisky enthusiasts who enjoy sipping their whisky slowly, perhaps in a brandy snifter to concentrate the aromas. For a unique cocktail, try it in a Green Label Sour, which combines the whisky with lemon juice, simple syrup, and a dash of egg white.

Johnnie Walker Green Label

Indulge in the unforgettable taste of Johnnie Walker Green Label, a Blended Malt Scotch Whisky crafted from a meticulous selection of Speyside, Highland, Lowland, and Island malts and matured for at least 15 years. This award-winning whisky boasts a depth that rivals single malts, offering a symphony of flavors from the four corners of Scotland. More than just a drink, Johnnie Walker Green Label is an experience and the perfect gift for the discerning whisky enthusiast. Savour its flavours on the rocks, where the ice gently unfolds notes of earthy fruit, floral hints, and a smoky finish, elevate your cocktails with a touch of sophistication, or impress your guests during special occasions.

US$59.99

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Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve

History and profile:

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve is a luxurious and smooth expression that was introduced to replace the older Gold Label 18-Year-Old. It is a non-age statement whisky, but it is known for its rich and honeyed flavour profile, with notes of vanilla, dark fruit, and a touch of smoke. The Gold Label Reserve is crafted using whiskies from the Clynelish distillery, which is known for its waxy and creamy texture.

Johnnie Walker aged 18

US$89.99

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Drinking suggestions:

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks. Its smooth and creamy texture makes it an excellent choice for sipping slowly, perhaps in a whisky tumbler. For a decadent treat, try it in a Gold Rush cocktail, which combines the whisky with honey syrup and lemon juice.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve

Savor the exquisite taste of Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky, an award-winning, luxurious blend that exemplifies the pinnacle of whisky craftsmanship. Crafted from the finest Speyside and Highland Whiskies and infused with the light smoky finish of West Coast embers, this smooth, honeyed whisky offers a taste experience like no other. Its creamy vanilla essence and a palette of vibrant, tropical fruits make every sip a journey to indulgence. Perfect for creating sophisticated cocktails or enjoying neat, Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve is the best gift for those special moments with friends or to mark significant milestones. With its award-winning taste and luxurious appeal, Johnnie Walker Gold Label is sure to become a treasured addition to any home bar and is the perfect gift for any whisky enthusiast seeking a smooth and sophisticated experience.

US$59.99

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Johnnie Walker Blue Label

History and profile:

Johnnie Walker Blue Label is the pinnacle of the Johnnie Walker range. It is a blend of some of the rarest and most exceptional whiskies in the Johnnie Walker reserves, with some components aged for up to 60 years. The Blue Label is known for its delicate and complex flavour profile, with notes of honey, dried fruit, and a hint of smoke. It is often considered a luxury whisky, with a price point to match.

Drinking suggestions:

Johnnie Walker Blue Label is best enjoyed neat, in a brandy snifter or a whisky tumbler. Its delicate and complex flavours are best appreciated when sipped slowly, allowing the whisky to evolve on the palate. For a truly luxurious experience, pair it with a fine cigar or a piece of dark chocolate.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

Unlock the ultimate whisky experience with Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky, a velvety smooth and vibrant Scotch crafted using rare hand-selected whiskies from the four corners of Scotland. Only 1 in 10,000 casks from our unparalleled reserves of ageing Scotch – including some from long-closed ‘ghost’ distilleries – have the remarkable depth of character needed to craft this exceptionally smooth whisky. Every sip of Johnnie Walker Blue Label is a journey through a rich and complex flavor profile. Rolling waves of rich spice lead to a deep surge of vanilla sweetness and honey, with caramel and hazelnut notes coursing through dark chocolate undertones. The luxuriously long, smoky finish completes the experience. For maximum enjoyment of Johnnie Walker Blue Label, it’s recommended to prepare your palate with iced water before savoring each sip.

US$194.99

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Special mentions

Johnnie Walker Swing

Johnnie Walker Swing is a unique expression that comes in a distinctive bottle with a curved bottom, designed to rock back and forth like a rocking chair. This design was inspired by the motion of a yacht at sea, making it a favorite among sailors and travelers. The Swing is a blend of malt and grain whiskies, with a focus on lighter, fruitier flavours. It is best enjoyed neat or on the rocks, allowing its smooth and balanced flavours to shine.

Johnnie Walker Swing Blended Scotch

Scotland- Originally designed to counteract unruly ocean waves while aboard the great luxury steamships. Today, the distinctive bottle contains a blend of Speyside, Highlands and Islay malts for richness, spice and weight, with a touch of sweetness on the elegant finish.

US$59.99

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Johnnie Walker King George V

Johnnie Walker King George V is a premium expression that pays homage to the royal warrant granted to Johnnie Walker by King George V in 1934. This whisky is a blend of rare and exceptional whiskies from distilleries that were in operation during the king’s reign. It offers a rich and complex flavour profile, with notes of dried fruit, spice, and a hint of smoke. It is best enjoyed neat, in a brandy snifter, to fully appreciate its luxurious and regal character.

john walker sons king george v blended scotch whisky limited edition 2021 lunar new year

John Walker & Sons King George V Limited Edition 2021 Lunar New Year

Celebrate the Lunar New Year with John Walker & Sons King George V Limited Edition 2021 Lunar New Year Blended Scotch Whisky. A limited-edition design portrays the Bai Ze, a mythical creature that symbolizes virtue, auspiciousness, might, and nobility. This opulent blend of whiskies from century-old distilleries is a fitting gift for creating a meaningful connection and sharing the spirit and festivities of the Lunar New Year. Hints of roasted nuts mingle with smooth dark chocolate in a kaleidoscope of flavors and aromas, gracing this regal flint glass decanter that echoes the iconic slanted Johnnie Walker label. The imposing, sweet smokiness combines elegantly with suggestions of honey and citrus orange. Simply sip it neat with chilled water on the side for an elegantly simple drink. Johnnie Walker was recognized as one of the world’s top-trending Scotch whiskies at the 2020 Drinks International awards.

US$500.49

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John Walker & Sons Odyssey

John Walker & Sons Odyssey is a triple malt whisky, crafted using only three single malt whiskies from the Johnnie Walker reserves. It is a luxurious and complex expression, with notes of honey, vanilla, and a touch of smoke. The Odyssey is best enjoyed neat, in a whisky tumbler, allowing its rich and layered flavours to unfold on the palate.

John Walker & Sons Odyssey

John Walker & Sons Odyssey is a celebration of the epic journeys our whiskies undertook in the early years of the 20th Century, as they travelled over the oceans to every corner of the world. This rare Triple Malt was created by Master Blender Jim Beveridge to evoke the aromas and sensations of this defining era. He took as his inspiration the legendary Johnnie Walker ‘Swing’, created in 1932 by the founder’s grandson, Sir Alexander Walker. He was a blender of extraordinary skill who handed down his detailed notes for future generations. John Walker & Sons Odyssey is made from just three extraordinary Single Malts, carefully blended and married together in oak casks to enhance the intricate layering of flavours and impart an exquisite smoothness

US$1,030.00

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Johnnie Walker & Sons XR Aged 21 Years

Johnnie Walker & Sons XR Aged 21 Years is a premium blended Scotch whisky that celebrates the legacy of Sir Alexander Walker, the grandson of John Walker. It is crafted using whiskies aged for at least 21 years, offering a rich and complex flavour profile with notes of dried fruit, spice, and a hint of smoke. It is best enjoyed neat, in a brandy snifter, to fully appreciate its depth and complexity.

Johnnie Walker & Sons XR Aged 21 Years

An exceptional 21-year-old blended scotch whisky inspired by the hand written notes of storied Johnnie Walker Master Blender Sir Alexander Walker II. Notes of spiced apple, smoky oak and toasted brioche. On the palate hints of orange and lemon peels with a finish that lasts.

US$174.00

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Johnnie Walker offers a wide range of expressions, each with its own unique flavour profile and history. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned whisky enthusiast, there’s a Johnnie Walker whisky for every palate. From the light and smoky Red Label to the luxurious and complex Blue Label, each expression offers a unique drinking experience. So, the next time you’re looking for a Scotch whisky, consider reaching for a bottle of Johnnie Walker and explore the rich and diverse world of this iconic brand.

This guide to Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky is designed to help you understand the history, flavour profiles, and best ways to enjoy each expression. Whether you’re sipping a glass of Blue Label neat or mixing a Red Label cocktail, Johnnie Walker offers a whisky experience that is both timeless and unforgettable. Cheers!

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