Scotch

The Ultimate Review: Johnnie Walker Black Label Sherry Finish

Johnnie Walker Black Label Sherry Finish differs from the classic Black Label primarily in its maturation process.

OVERALL RATING

7
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Tasting Notes

About:

Aged for a minimum of 12 years this sherry finished version of the classic Johnnie Walker Black Label has had an extra finishing period in casks seasoned with sherry from Jerez. This blend is composed of Clynelish, Cardhu, Cameronbridge, Glenkinchie and Caol Ila to add in the Islay peat the Black Label is known for.
Appearance:
An almost luminescent gold with a good amount of beading when swirled around the glass.
Nose:
While not confirmed on the length of finishing, there are plenty of sherry led notes including dates, figs, almonds and plums. There is also a malty note of brown bread with salted butter and blackcurrant jam on top.
Palate:
The smoke is surprisingly strong and pairs really well with the softer sherry notes which slightly leans into a gunpowder sulphuric note. Almonds and plums are present on the palate while there is an almost chalky texture to the liquid. At the end of each sip there is a bit of punch like ginger biscuits and mild chili flakes.
Finish:
Quite a long finish with the sherry notes providing a dry and cinnamon note on the tongue.
Comments:
This release feels like quite a step up from the well loved Johnnie Walker Black Label. The added finishing period really rounds off this expression with the sherry notes providing more depth and lifting the smoke to greater levels. Overall a pleasant and quite exciting release while still being a more approachable price point than their premium releases.

Editor’s Note: This whiskey was either bought as a sample by The Whiskey Wash or provided to us as a review sample by the party behind it. Per our editorial policies, this in no way influenced the outcome of this review.

Pete "Jeff Whisky" Jeffery

Based in the South West of the UK, Jeff brings an irreverent and laid-back approach to whisky reviewing, dispelling any notions of snobbery surrounding the spirit. With a genuine enthusiasm for exceptional drams, he often embraces the whimsical side of whisky. Jeff's tongue-in-cheek whisky content has earned him recognition in the Malt Whisky Yearbook, and he has contributed articles and reviews to numerous whisky platforms.

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