Johnnie Walker Double Black vs Black Label: Is More Smoke Worth The Upgrade?

Sometimes the best discoveries come from taking a familiar path in a slightly different direction. After years of exploring the Johnnie Walker range, it was the standard Black Label that consistently earned its place in my cabinet. So when Double Black promised a smokier, more intense version of this trusted companion at £35, my curiosity was naturally piqued.

Watch my video review below or read on for my full tasting notes and comparison between these two Johnnie Walker expressions.

Behind the Black

Unlike its predecessor, Double Black notably drops the 12-year age statement – a decision that initially raised my eyebrows. However, after tasting, it’s clear this isn’t necessarily a downgrade but rather a different approach entirely. The whisky compensates through clever production techniques, employing a higher proportion of Island malts and significantly charred oak casks.

This expression positions itself as an intriguing proposition for those curious about exploring smokier territory without diving headfirst into the intense peat of something like Laphroaig or Ardbeg. The production approach seems deliberately crafted to achieve a specific flavour profile, with the extra smokiness and char helping to create a well-rounded experience that masks any youthful rough edges.

Tasting Notes

For those concerned about the ‘double’ smoky element, let me put your mind at ease. This isn’t an Islay-level peat monster, but rather a gentle step into smokier territory.

Nose: A gentle barbecue smokiness leads the way, backed by generous helpings of vanilla and honey. While not the most complex nose you’ll encounter, it’s well-rounded with subtle grain notes creating a balanced profile.

Palate: The initial mouthfeel presents as somewhat thin but warming. That gentle smoke continues, accompanied by vanilla sweetness and subtle oak notes. Despite its younger age compared to Black Label, there’s a decent roundness to the dram that manages to avoid any harsh grain notes.

Finish: Relatively short but pleasant, with a warming smokiness that lingers with those barbecue notes making a final appearance.

Smoke Factor

As someone who’s grown to appreciate peated whiskies over time, I’d position Double Black as an excellent gateway into smoky Scotch. It offers enough smoke to satisfy curiosity without overwhelming the palate – think subtle barbecue rather than medicinal Islay peat. This makes it particularly appealing for those looking to explore smokier whiskies but aren’t quite ready for the intensity of Laphroaig or Ardbeg.

The smoke integration feels natural rather than forced, complementing rather than dominating the classic Johnnie Walker profile. It’s a clever balance that should appeal to both peat-curious drinkers and those who already enjoy a touch of smoke in their dram.

The Verdict: Double Black vs Black Label

At £35, Double Black sits in an interesting price bracket. While slightly pricier than the standard Black Label, it’s not quite the premium leap you might expect for a more specialized expression. The question though, is whether it’s worth the upgrade from its younger sibling?

For me, the answer isn’t straightforward. While Double Black offers an intriguing smoky twist on a familiar friend, I still find myself reaching for the classic Black Label as my daily dram. That said, Double Black isn’t trying to replace its predecessor – it’s carving its own niche. It’s a compelling addition to your cabinet, especially when found on promotion (keep an eye on Amazon UK), and serves perfectly as a gentle introduction to peated whisky without the intensity of an Islay malt.

So is it better than Black Label? Perhaps that’s the wrong question. It’s different, and sometimes different is exactly what you’re looking for.