1. Johnnie Walker Green Label
Johnnie Walker Green Label is a renowned name in the scotch whisky world, holding the title of the number one best-selling scotch globally. The brand has an extensive product line, including Double Black, Gold Label, and Blonde, all of which have been reviewed previously. This time, the focus is on the Johnnie Walker Green Label.
Originally known as Pure Malt 15 Year Old, the use of the term “Pure Malt” was discontinued, leading to the adoption of the Green Label name. Additionally, there’s a product exclusive to duty-free shopping called Island Green. This variant does not specify its age (NAS) and is crafted by adding single malt from the islands.
My first encounter with Johnnie Walker Green Label was through the movie “The Man from Earth.” In a memorable scene, the protagonist shares this whisky with his colleagues before departing. The depiction of beloved characters enjoying the whisky left a lasting impression.
Johnnie Walker Green Label is a blended malt scotch whisky, distinctively aged for 15 years. It is uniquely blended from four single malts: Talisker, Linkwood, Cragganmore, and Caol Ila, offering a rich and complex flavor profile.
2. The Johnnie Walker
1) Johnnie Walker entry line
Johnnie Walker’s entry-level lineup consists of seven varieties: Red Label, Black Label, Double Black, Green Label, Gold Label Reserve, Aged 18 Years (formerly known as Platinum Label), and Blue Label, with the prices increasing in that order.
In addition to these, there are several other whiskies, including Swing, which was introduced for consumption on ships; King George V, a top-tier line; Island Green, a duty-free exclusive; and Black Label Sherry Cask Finish, known as Black Sherry.
It’s worth noting that only Johnnie Walker Green Label is classified as a blended malt whisky, meaning it is a blend of single malts only, without any grain whisky. The rest of the lineup includes blended whiskies, which incorporate both malt and grain whiskies. Among these, only Black Label (12 years), Green Label (15 years), and Aged 18 Years (Platinum) have specified age statements, indicating the minimum years of maturation.
2) Tasting Notes
Pouring Johnnie Walker Green Label into a glass reveals an attractive golden color, reminiscent of the barley tea often consumed in my childhood home.
Upon closer inspection, the aroma carries an initial alcohol warmth. From a slight distance, sweet notes with hints of roasted fruit, a touch of citrus, and peat become apparent, accompanied by a floral essence.
Tasting it, one can detect a blend of salty, sweet, and nutty flavors, along with spiciness and peat. The dominant taste—whether it be salty, sweet, or nutty—varies with each sip. As the whisky lingers in the mouth, a spiciness emerges over time.
After swallowing, the peaty character is more pronounced. The whisky has a somewhat oily mouthfeel, yet the overall taste and texture are on the lighter side.
3) Product Information
Product Name: Johnnie Walker Green Label
Volume: 700ml
Alcohol Content: 43%
Manufacturer: Diageo Scotland Limited
Type: Whisky
Ingredients: 100% Whisky Distillate
Country of Origin: Scotland (UK)
3. Overall Review
In summary, I believe the Johnnie Walker Green Label is a whisky well worth the money. With the recent increase in whisky prices, I wish I had discovered Green Label sooner to enjoy it at a more affordable price. For those who haven’t tried it yet, I highly recommend purchasing it. The only downside is the significant price hike in a short period.
In the hierarchy of Johnnie Walker labels, Gold is technically above Green. However, due to Green’s popularity, as evident from the photo, it is now being sold at a higher price than Gold.
I regret not having tasted the whiskies from Talisker, Linkwood, Cragganmore, and Caol Ila individually before trying Green Label. Knowing the flavors of each could have added to the enjoyment of understanding where each characteristic in the blend comes from. For instance, Talisker is known for its saltiness, Cragganmore for sweetness, and Caol Ila for its peatiness.
Before experiencing single malt whiskies, I hadn’t considered other types of spirits. However, as I’ve begun to explore the charms of blended malt and blended whiskies, I find myself seeking out a wider variety of offerings.
4. Link
The Scotch Whisky Criteria, Types and Product Region
Johnnie Walker Green Label – Official Homepage