Today’s whisky exploration revolves around the intriguing duel of Johnnie Walker Green vs Blue Label whisky. Known worldwide as a beacon of whisky excellence, the Johnnie Walker brand spans a colourful spectrum from Red and Black to Green and Blue Label releases.
However, it’s the esteemed Johnnie Walker Blue Label blended Scotch whisky that often steals the spotlight, symbolizing the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication.
Yet, amidst this grandeur, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the subtleties of the Johnnie Walker Green Label whisky. Its enticing blend of chocolate mint and fruity undertones captured my palate, much like the ever-reliable Black Label.
Thus, driven by curiosity, I embarked on a side-by-side comparison to unravel the nuances between the Green and Blue Label expressions.
The tale of Johnnie Walker traces back to a humble grocery shop in Ayrshire, Scotland, where John “Johnnie” Walker initially crafted whiskies tailored to individual preferences. As his blends became successful, he started creating blended drams that he labelled Walker’s Kilmarnock whisky.
This laid the foundation, but the ingenuity of his grandsons, Alexander Walker II and George Walker, revolutionized the business by introducing the colour-based naming system.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label Whisky
Crafted by Master Distiller Jim Beveridge, the Johnnie Walker Blue Label blended Scotch whisky is a testament to tradition, blending 35 grain and malt whiskies, some aged for an astonishing 60 years. While the Blue Label lacks an age statement, each bottle boasts a unique serial number.
Johnnie Walker Green Label Whisky
On the other hand, the Johnnie Walker Green Label blended malt whisky was initially introduced as the Pure Malt 15-year-old. The release boasts a blend of 27 single malts, each aged for a minimum of 15 years. The blended malt includes spirits from distilleries like Cragganmore and Linkwood, together with Caol Ila and Talisker.
Johnnie Walker Blue vs Green Label Whisky
| Johnnie Walker Blue Label whisky | Johnnie Walker Green Label whisky | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Blended whisky | Blended malt whisky |
| ABV | 43% | 43% |
| Colour | Amber | Golden Honey |
| Age statement | NAS | 15 year old |
| Nose | Peat, smoke with oak and malt. Christmas cake, spice and dried fruit. Adding some water unlocked fresh flowers and florals. | After-dinner mints, aniseed, oak, and subtle hints of smoke. A fruity sweetness, malt, and a slight dash of pepper. Fresh-cut grass and vanilla. |
| Palate | Peat and old wood with toasted nuts, toffee and pepper. Water releases a sweeter note with hints of florals. | Highland peat, hints of smoke, vanilla, fruity sweetness, and a touch of cinnamon. Notes of oak, malt, and the spiciness of white pepper and a citrus zing. After-dinner mints and espresso. |
| Finish | Medium length with notes of pepper and nutmeg, caramels and oak. | Medium-length with a combination of pepper, fruity sweetness and a faint wisp of smoke. |
| My Rating | Excellent | Excellent |
| Price | $250 | $70 |
| Pairs well with | Hoisin duck, dark chocolate mousse | Smoked salmon, BBQ chicken |
In the glass, the Blue Label’s deeper hue reflects its prolonged maturation, while the Green Label exudes a slightly lighter tone.
On the nose, the Blue Label presents oak, malt, and Christmas cake aromas. In contrast, the Green Label offers a diverse spice bouquet with hints of aniseed and vanilla intertwined with peaty notes and a subtle after-dinner mint freshness.
Moving onto the palate, the Blue Label’s creamy nuttiness and refined floral notes exude elegance, contrasting with the Green Label’s vibrant blend of chocolate, peat, and smoke, accentuated by hints of vanilla and malt.
While both offer a medium-length finish, the Blue Label whisky concludes with refined oak and spices. In contrast, the Green Label leaves a fruity sweetness lingering, accompanied by subtle hints of pepper and smoke.
The Johnnie Walker Blue Label blended whisky epitomizes sophistication and refinement, ideal for commemorating special occasions. Conversely, the Johnnie Walker Green Label blended whisky embodies vibrancy and approachability, perfect for unwinding on a casual evening.
Personally, I find the Green Label more memorable and enjoyable, with its unique after-dinner mint notes and versatile character.
Moreover, the substantial price difference between the two labels makes the Green Label an appealing choice for regular indulgence. At the same time, the Blue Label remains reserved for exceptional occasions.
Ultimately, if pressed to choose a favourite, the Johnnie Walker Green Label blended malt Scotch whisky wins my vote for its approachability and sheer drinkability, making it a staple in my collection.
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