Tag: Diageo Page 3 of 15

Diageo plc is a British multinational beverage alcohol company, with its headquarters in London, England. It operates in more than 180 countries and produces in more than 140 sites around the world. It is a major distributor of spirits and the world’s largest producer of Scotch whisky.
Brands include:
Scotch whisky: Johnnie Walker, Cardhu, Justerini & Brooks, Bell’s, Black & White, White Horse, Caol Ila, Vat 69, Oban, Talisker, Lagavulin, Glenkinchie, Dalwhinnie, Cragganmore, Clynelish, Singleton, Dimple, Glen Elgin, Knockando, Blair Athol, Dailuaine, Glenlossie, Mannochmore, Mortlach, Strathmill, Teaninich.
American whiskey: Bulleit, Seagram’s
Canadian whisky: Crown Royal
Vodka: Smirnoff, Cîroc, Ketel One
Rum: Captain Morgan,
Gin: Gordon’s, Tanqueray, Gilbey’s, Aviation Gin

Bulleit 95 Rye Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 07/17/2023

In Rye Whiskey

Rye whiskey is exploding in South Africa. Even regular bottle shops have started to carry some rye whiskey. It is wonderful to see ow the category is growing. This spicy style whiskey adds an exciting new taste dimension compared to Scottish whisky or bourbon.

I try to taste as many rye releases as I can to expand my taste buds. I found this bottle of Bulleit Straight 95% American Rye whiskey locally and just had to try it. The first Bulleit bourbon was produced by Augustus Bulleit.

He wanted to create a bourbon with a unique flavour profile and experimented with varying recipes until he found a whiskey that he was happy with. He created his bourbon, and it was available until he died in 1860.

Years later, his great-great-grandson, Tom Bulleit dreamt of continuing his ancestor’s distilling tradition, and in 1987, he created a small batch bourbon, bearing the family name. The bottles are modelled on old fashioned medicine bottles, with distinctive raised lettering.

Also Read: Sazerac Rye

Seagram acquired Bulleit Bourbon in 1997, and the facilities were relocated to Lawrenceburg, Kentucky. Today, Diageo owns the Bulleit brand. In March 2017, Diageo opened a new Bulleit distillery just east of Shelbyville in Shelby County, Kentucky.

Bulleit Rye American Frontier whiskey was introduced during March 2011. It is made with a mash bill of 95% rye and 5% malted barley and produced in small batches.

Bulleit 95 Rye Whiskey Review

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 45%

COLOUR: Light golden caramel

NOSE: Sweet and fresh. Cherries and vanilla with hints of grain and toasted oak. Subtle spices with hints of cinnamon and cloves.

PALATE: Not as spicy as the Sazerac whiskey. More caramel sweetness followed by fresh fruit before the spicy notes hits. Overripe cherries, dry roasted peanuts and crunchy grain. Then follows the rye spice mixed with vanilla, cinnamon and hints of pepper and cloves.

Delicious. I finished my first glass without water and had to pour a second glass to see the impact of water. Water brings more orange notes forward.

FINISH: A spicy rye finish with cinnamon, allspice and vanilla. Medium length. Warming.

RATING: EXCELLENT

What a delicious rye whiskey! Probably my favourite rye so far. Spiciness to let you know you are drinking rye, but enough sweetness and balance to make it easy drinking and inviting. I love it. Another great thing about this rye whiskey is the price. It is very affordable which makes it a great whiskey for cocktails. I see it retails on Amazon for around £35.

Now to go and play with this rye whiskey and make some cocktails. I think this Bulleit Rye will work really well in an Old Fashioned.

I found an article on the history of rye whiskey in America and more on the Bulleit Bourbon. Other rye releases that I have tasted include a Scottish Rye whisky, the Arbiki Highland Rye release. A different spice profile, but interesting nevertheless.

I have done a side by side comparison between the Bulleit Rye and the Woodford Reserve Rye to see what the differences are. I have also done a side by side comparison between the Bulleit Rye and Bulleit bourbon to see how the mash bill profile changes the taste.

Also Read: Michter’s Single Barrel Rye Whiskey

Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 06/12/2023

In Bourbon whiskey

In the bourbon world, few names carry the weight of tradition and history, like Bulleit bourbon Frontier whiskey. This remarkable spirit traces its roots back to a 150-year-old family recipe. The recipe was created by Augustus Bulleit, the great-great-grandfather of the brand’s founder, Tom Bulleit.

The story begins in the mid-19th century when Augustus crafted a distinctive rye whiskey, using a blend of 67% rye and 33% corn, right in the heart of Louisville, Kentucky, between 1830 and 1860.

Tom Bulleit’s journey to resurrect this extraordinary family legacy was a winding one. He first served in the US Marine Corps and then pursued a career in law. Yet, the dream of recreating his ancestor’s recipe never left him.

In 1987, he took the plunge and created a small batch bourbon that would bear the iconic family name. To ensure it qualified as a true bourbon, the mash bill was adjusted to 68% corn, 28% rye, and 4% malted barley.

One of the first things that capture your attention about Bulleit bourbon is its distinctive bottle shape. Modelled after antique medicine bottles, it features raised lettering and an askew label, reminiscent of how it might have appeared in the 1860s. In 1997, Seagram acquired the Bulleit brand, setting the stage for its continued journey.

Following various acquisitions, the Bulleit brand now rests under the ownership of Diageo, and its production takes place at the Kirin Brewing Company Four Roses distillery in Lawrenceburg, Kentucky.

Related Article: Uncle Nearest 1856 whiskey

Bulleit Bourbon Frontier Whiskey

COUNTRY: USA

ABV: 45%

COLOUR: Light amber

NOSE: Bulleit bourbon greets your senses with a spicy punch upfront, departing from the usual sweetness associated with traditional bourbons. In the background, hints of sticky toffee pudding and vanilla bean emerge. With time, a subtle caramel note weaves into the aromatic tapestry.

PALATE: This bourbon is a rich, chewy experience, brimming with spice that never overwhelms. Beyond the initial spice, you’ll discover notes of toffee caramel, vanilla, and a touch of wood. In the background is subtle hints of orange and freshly baked sugar biscuits.

Even when water is added, Bulleit bourbon maintains its frontier spirit, becoming smoother and slightly sweeter, all while retaining its robust character.

FINISH: The finish is delightful – long, lingering, and memorable. It stays with you well after you’ve savoured the last drop, boasting bold notes of mild spice and subtle hints of oak.

RATING: EXCELLENT

What a lovely bourbon. The first sip brings spices and pepper, but on sip two, the toffee, vanilla and oak move forward. It has a lovely balance without any overwhelming elements.

Bulleit bourbon departs from the familiar sweetness found in traditional counterparts. Its uniqueness lies in its unparalleled flavour profile, making it a standout choice for those seeking something extraordinary.

Bulleit bourbon frontier whiskey is readily available in South Africa and is typically priced at around R 400. A great affordable bourbon whiskey. In the USA, you can find it for approximately $42. I have seen it on Amazon for around £32.

And if you’re intrigued by Bulleit bourbon whiskey, don’t miss the opportunity to explore its sibling, Bulleit Rye whiskey.

Side by Side Comparisons

I’ve undertaken a side-by-side comparison between Bulleit and Woodford Reserve bourbon, shedding light on their nuanced differences. In my final tasting experience of 2021, I set Bulleit bourbon alongside Buffalo Trace bourbon, aiming to determine which one captures my preference.

I have also done a side by side comparison between the Bulleit Rye and Bulleit bourbon to see how the mash bill profile changes the taste.

Also Read: Sazerac Rye vs Rittenhouse Rye whiskey

Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 02/17/2023

In Whisky Comparison

Johnnie Walker blue Label vs XR blended whisky side by side comparison

Welcome to the next instalment of my whisky comparison series. I look closer at two exceptional releases from Johnnie Walker: the renowned Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR blended Scotch whisky.

These premium blends are part of the illustrious Diageo stable, but what sets them apart? In this article, we’ll delve into the nuances of these exceptional whiskies to help you make an informed choice.

The journey of Johnnie Walker, from its humble beginnings in a grocery store to its status as a global brand, is a tale well-documented. While Red and Black Label are widely available in bars around the world, the pinnacle of the Johnnie Walker range is the Blue Label.

Surprisingly, it’s not the most expensive in their lineup. For instance, the Johnnie Walker King George V is nearly three times the price of the Blue Label, and the John Walker Private Edition collection can retail for over R7,000.

However, in South Africa and many other places, the Blue Label is the whisky that epitomizes success and accomplishment.

The Johnnie Walker Blue Label is often considered the whisky of choice when one has “made it” in life. The 21 year old XR release is only R600 more expensive. The Johnnie Walker XR Scotch whisky features a more exquisite bottle and boasts an age statement.

Now, the question arises: Which whisky is the better tasting?

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Whisky

Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR
The premium Johnnie Walker Blue Label blended Scotch whisky is crafted from a blend of old grain and malt whiskies, meticulously curated by Master Distiller Jim Beveridge to echo the style of 19th-century whiskies.

While the Blue Label lacks an age statement, each bottle boasts a unique serial number.

Johnnie Walker XR 21 year old Whisky

Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR
Honoring Sir Alexander Walker’s Knighthood, the Johnnie Walker XR whisky is a special edition release. This 21 year old blended Scotch whisky draws inspiration from the handwritten blending notes of Sir Alexander Walker himself.

Featuring whisky from the extensive Johnnie Walker stocks, the XR 21 year old is rumoured to include whisky from the now-silent Brora distillery. One remarkable feature of this whisky is its impressive bottle design, complete with a substantial stopper, making it a keepsake even when the last drop is poured.

Also Read: Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel vs Woodford Reserve

Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR 21 year old Whisky

Johnny walker Blue Label vs XR comparison

	Johnnie Walker Blue Label	Johnnie Walker XR
Type	Blended whisky	Blended Whisky
ABV	43%	40%
Colour	Light golden amber	Dark gold with red tinges
Nose	Complex with many layers. Peat, smoke with oak and malt. Christmas cake, spice and dried fruit. Adding some water unlocked fresh flowers and florals.	Rich and smooth with sweetness, sherry, ripening summer fruit and flowers Adding water softens the nose and releases more smoky wood and spice.
Palate	Bold with peat and old wood. Water smooths it toward a more floral, sweeter bouquet with notes of oak and toffee.	Notes of ripe cherries, sherry, cinnamon, maple syrup, fruits and oak. Subtle and elegant Water tones down the boldness and takes away the complexity and richness.
Finish	Medium length with notes of pepper and nutmeg, caramels and oak.	Medium length. Notes of raisins and cinnamon spice.
My Rating	Excellent	Excellent
Comments	Non age statement. Easy drinking without loosing complexity.	Age statement: 21 yo. More elegant and subtle with red fruits balanced with cinnamon.
You will like it if you are looking for…	Something smooth with Islay / Island notes. A bold winter whisky.	Summer whisky with a more Speyside / Highland caracter. Something sweeter and elegant with a richer finish.
Price	$250	Discontinued
Pairs well with	Roast Beef or tiramisu or a light blue cheese.	Oysters, scallops or duck

Comparing these two exceptional whiskies side by side highlights their differences. The smoky and peaty notes are subtle when sipping the Blue Label on its own. However, the peat and smoke emerge more boldly when enjoyed alongside a sweeter whisky.

The Blue LabelScotch is bold with oak, toffee and floral notes, bits of dried fruit and Christmas spices. The XR brings red fruits, sherry and maple syrup with light oak and cinnamon. It is less bold than the Blue Label but more elegant and complex.

Both are excellent whiskies in their own right, but whether they justify their price tags or stand out in a blind taste test against other premium blends is a separate discussion, perhaps one for our whisky club friends to explore in the future.

For me and John, the Johnnie Walker XR whisky stands out as more elegant and refined when compared to the Blue Label. Its unique bottle design and substantial stopper add to its allure, making it a bottle worth preserving long after its contents have been enjoyed.

In the battle of Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR whisky, the choice ultimately comes down to personal preference. Whether you opt for the iconic Blue Label or the elegant XR 21 year old Scotch, you will surely experience the craftsmanship and legacy of one of the world’s most renowned whisky brands.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Green vs Blue Label Whisky

Crown Royal Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 02/06/2023

In Blended whisky

Blended whisky time again, and today I write about the Crown Royal whisky from Canada. The year was 1939. Adolf Hitler has been Führer of Germany for five years. The signs of impending war were visible everywhere in Europe.

During this troubling time, the British Monarch King George VI and Queen Elizabeth (Queen Mother) visited Canada and the USA.It was the first visit of a reigning monarch to Canada, and a British monarch set foot in the United States.

This tour marked the first time that the sovereign’s official Canadian birthday was marked with the country’s ruler. The royals arrived in Quebec and travelled west by rail through the country.

They visited most of the major cities and finally arrived in Vancouver. The King and Queen made a brief visit to the United States, visiting Washington, New York, and Poughkeepsie.

In both Canada and the United States, the presence of the King and Queen was calculated to shore up support for Britain in anticipation of hostilities with Nazi Germany.

Created as a tribute to this Royal grand tour to Canada, the Crown Royal is a blended whisky made with over 50 different whiskies. Crown Royal whisky is a blend of various grains (including corn, rye, wheat and barley).

The whisky is aged in a variety of casks. Crown Royal comes in a purple velvet-like bag, which symbolizes royalty. Owned by Diageo, Crown Royal Deluxe is one of the top-selling Canadian Whiskies in the United States.

Related Article: The Top 5 Blends under R500

Crown Royal Whisky Review

COUNTRY: Canada

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Rich golden amber.

NOSE: Toffee and vanilla sweetness with hints of grains. There are traces of fruit and bits of lemon coming through. When you add water, stone fruit like peaches appears.

PALATE: Creamy caramel fudge and a bit of smoke with oak. There are hints of fruit in the background and pieces of citrus, and more vanilla linger on the palate. This Delux release is not a very spicy whisky. This Crown Royal Deluxe is smooth and well-balanced.

FINISH: The whisky ends in notes of spice and burnt oak with a bit of chocolate. The finish is long and lingering.

RATING: VERY GOOD

The Crown Royal whisky is a medium-bodied whisky with a balanced mouthfeel. It is the perfect whisky to serve at the end of a meal. The Crown Royal Deluxe should pair well with some vanilla flavoured deserts.

I also tasted the award-winning Crown Royal Northern Harvest Rye and captured my tasting notes on this dram.

Related Article: Firstwatch Whisky

Black & White Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 01/16/2023

In Blended whisky

I love the older James Bond movies. After the passing of Sean Connery at the end of 2020, there was a Bond movie marathon on TV, and I noticed that James drinks Black & White blended Scotch whisky in Dr No. It also gets mentioned in Moonraker. I have a Scottie as well, so I had to at least try this well known and affordable blend.

Black & White whisky is a classic old blend. James Buchanan created the brand during the early 1880s and was initially called Buchanan’s Blend. It was sold in the House of Commons Bar and became known as the Buchanan’s House of Commons blend. The packaging was in a black bottle with a white label.

James got the idea for the brand logo and name change on his way home from a dog-show. The Scottish terrier and West Highland terrier on the label were added in the 1890s and became iconic Scotch whisky symbols.

Mergers and acquisitions followed, and the brand ended up in the Diageo stable. It is popular in France, Italy, Canada, Latin America and South Africa. In South Africa, it is priced in the affordable category around R170. Black & White whisky contains a high proportion of grain whisky. It is a NAS release.

According to some research, Physicist Richard Feynman drank Black & White whisky, as described in his book ‘Surely You’re Joking, Mr Feynman’. As the hubby is a huge fan of Mr Feynman, he was quite eager to try this blend. Needless to say, he was not very inspired by Mr Feynman’s whisky taste.

Also Read: White Horse Blended Scotch Whisky

Black & White Whisky Review

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Rich Gold

NOSE: Raw alcohol notes with caramel sweetness. I let the glass stand for a good couple of minutes for the worst of the alcohol, and mentholated spirit notes to disappear. Not the best introduction to this blended whisky.

PALATE: Grain sweetness with bits of vanilla, caramel and cinnamon. Not the most complex whisky. After the raw alcohol notes on the nose, I was not expecting much, but there is something drinkable in the Black & White whisky. Hints of bourbon and fruit. Adding water softens the rough edges a bit but makes it even sweeter.

FINISH: Short, with a caramel sweetness.

RATING: GOOD

The raw alcohol notes on the nose can be overwhelming. It was only after letting the glass breath for a good 15 minutes that you can get past the raw notes to the sweet grains on the palate.

I was expecting quite an unrefined and harsh mouthful, but the palate is softer and more drinkable than what the nose suggests. Not something I want to drink every day, but with a good mixer, it will be quite drinkable.

Water brings forward even more sweetness, so it can easily become just a bit too sweet. I would not mix this with something sweet, but rather something with a ginger or spicy kick to balance the sweetness.

Daisy, my Scottie, watched the tasting with her usual indifference and I think I need to add a Westie to the family just to get the picture right.

Also Read: Royal Challenge Whisky