Today, I’m diving into a fascinating comparison: Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold whisky. Both are premium 18 year old blended Scotch whiskies from one of the most recognised names in whisky, and both have earned loyal followings among enthusiasts.
What makes this comparison particularly interesting is that the Johnnie Walker Gold Label 18 year old was discontinued and effectively replaced by the Johnnie Walker Platinum Label 18 year old. While the two whiskies share many similarities, they are not identical.
So, how do they compare in terms of flavour, complexity, and overall drinking experience? Let’s pour a dram and find out.
Johnnie Walker Gold Label Whisky
Before examining the Platinum Label, it’s worth appreciating the whisky that came first. The original Johnnie Walker Gold Label 18 year old traces its roots back to 1920, when Sir Alexander Walker created the blend to celebrate 100 years of the Johnnie Walker business.
It quickly became one of the most respected expressions in the Johnnie Walker range. This premium blend combined around 15 carefully selected whiskies, including renowned malts such as Talisker, Clynelish, Cardhu, and Royal Lochnagar. Every component was matured for at least 18 years, creating a whisky known for its depth, elegance, and remarkable balance.
The Gold Label developed a reputation for being rich yet approachable. Its combination of honeyed sweetness, mature oak, gentle spice, and layered fruit notes made it a favourite among both casual drinkers and seasoned whisky collectors.
Johnnie Walker Platinum Label Whisky
When Diageo retired the Gold Label 18 year old in 2013, many whisky fans were disappointed. However, the company introduced the Johnnie Walker Platinum Label 18 year old blended whisky as its successor.
Initially launched as a travel retail exclusive, Platinum Label soon found a wider audience and was positioned just below the prestigious Blue Label in the Johnnie Walker portfolio.
Like its predecessor, Platinum Label is crafted from a selection of carefully aged malt and grain whiskies, all matured for at least 18 years. The focus is on creating a smooth, luxurious blend that showcases the softer and fruitier side of Scotch whisky.
Rather than attempting to replicate the Gold Label exactly, Platinum Label takes the concept in a slightly different direction, emphasising sweetness, elegance, and easy drinkability.
Now, let’s fast forward to the present and introduce the successor, the Johnnie Walker Platinum Label. This gem marked the first addition to the Johnnie Walker “colour” series in a while.
Also Read: Johnnie Walker Gift Ideas
Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold Label Whisky
| Johnnie Walker Platinum Label | Johnnie Walker Gold Label | |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Blended whisky | Blended whisky |
| ABV | 40% | 43% |
| Colour | Bright gold | Bright gold |
| Nose | Toffee sweetness, brandy soaked fruits with hints of orange and smoke. Fresh-cut flowers and butterscotch. Traces of vanilla and caramel intermingle in the background. | Malt and barley with hints of smoke, oaky spices and sun dried grass. Rich and complex with a fruity sweetness. Apples and cinnamon hints balanced with fresh flowers. |
| Palate | Mild spice and hints of oak. Floral notes, malt, cinnamon and oranges intermingling with smoke. Something peaty in the background. | Honey and apricot jam, hints of malt and cream, toasted oak spices with smoky hints. Bits of cinnamon and dried fruit, wonderful balance between sweet and spice. |
| Finish | Medium length and ends in notes of orange and spice. | Long and lingering with notes of honey and green grass |
| My Rating | Very Good | Excellent |
| Comments | It is an easy drinking whisky. | A lovely balance between the rich fruity notes and hints of smoke. |
| Pairs well with | Delicate fish or soft cheese | Dark Chocolate dessert or beef stew |
When comparing Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold, the similarities are immediately obvious. Both whiskies display a rich golden colour and share a refined, mature character that comes from extended ageing.
However, subtle differences begin to emerge once you spend some time with each dram.
On the nose, the Gold Label brings notes of honey, apples with barley sugar, cinnamon and light oaky notes. The Platinum has more orange, brandy-soaked fruits, with honey sweetness and some gentle smoke.
On the palate, the Gold Label has notes of apricot, creamy vanilla, toffee and soft spices with a dry oak feel. On the other hand, the Platinum Label offers hints of oak, floral notes, malt, cinnamon, and oranges, intermingling with smoke. There is something peaty in the background.
The Gold Label feels slightly richer and more complex. There is a wonderful balance between sweetness, fruit, oak, and spice that keeps you returning for another sip.
The Platinum Label is exceptionally smooth and approachable. It feels slightly lighter than the Gold Label, with orange and floral flavours taking centre stage.
If I had to give a slight edge to one bottle, it would be the Johnnie Walker Gold Label whisky. The extra richness, complexity, and longer finish make it feel just a little more special. There is a depth and balance that whisky enthusiasts will particularly appreciate.
The Platinum Label, however, should not be overlooked. It is smoother, easier to drink, and perhaps more accessible to those exploring premium Scotch for the first time.
Final Thoughts
The comparison between Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold highlights just how skilled Johnnie Walker is at creating premium blended Scotch whisky.
Also Read: Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR Whisky
