Tag: Diageo Page 9 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

Today, I delve into the intriguing world of Johnnie Walker whisky, focusing on two exceptional releases: Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Johnnie Walker Gold Label blended Scotch whisky.

The showdown begins as we explore the legacy of the Gold Label 18 year old whisky, which was sadly discontinued in 2013, and its successors, the Johnnie Walker Platinum 18 year old blended Scotch.

Buckle up for a journey through time and flavour as we engage in a spirited bout of Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold Label whisky.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Whisky

REview and Tasting notes Johnnie Walker Gold Label Centenary Blend with glass
First, let’s pay homage to the legend that is the Johnnie Walker Gold Label 18 year old whisky. Crafted in 1920 by Sir Alexander Walker himself, this distinguished blend was created to commemorate the Johnnie Walker Company’s century in the whisky business, tracing its roots back to 1820.

The Gold Label is a blend of 15 different whiskies, boasting selections like Talisker, Clynish, Royal Lochnagar, and Cardhu. Each of these whiskies has gracefully aged for a minimum of 18 years, resulting in a harmonious blend that Jim Murray himself deemed worthy of 96 points in his esteemed Whisky Bible.

Johnnie Walker Platinum Label Whisky

Tasting notes for the Johnnie Walker Platinum blended whisky with glass
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.

Initially launched in Travel Retail, it soon became widely available and earned its place next to the coveted Johnnie Walker Blue Label. The Platinum Label doesn’t hold back either.

With a blend of malts aged for around 18 years, it stands as Diageo’s formidable competition to the world of 18-year-old single malts. This release weaves together a select few single malt and grain whiskies, each aged for a minimum of 18 years, all crafted in the elegant and sweet Speyside style, according to Diageo’s discerning standards.

Also Read: Singleton 12 yo vs Glenfiddich 12 yo whisky

Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold Label Whisky

Comparing the 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 placed side by side, it becomes evident just how subtle the differences are. They share striking similarities, beginning with their nearly identical hues, which make the choice all the more challenging.

In the battle of Johnnie Walker Platinum Label vs Gold Label whisky, both contenders are champions in their own right, offering distinct yet equally enchanting experiences for whisky enthusiasts.

The Johnnie Walker Gold Label whisky brings notes of barley, apricot jam and cinnamon. A fruity sweetness with creamy oak. The Johnnie Walker Platinum Label whisky brings brandy-soaked fruit, orange and light smoke. The finish on the Gold Label is longer and more satisfactory than on the Platinum Label.

If one were to nudge ahead slightly, it would be the Johnnie Walker Gold Label 18 year old whisky. I found the Gold Label richer and somewhat more complex, with an outstanding balance. The Platinum Label is easier to drink and more approachable.

Whether you choose the elegance of the Gold Label or indulge in the fruity notes of the Platinum Label, Johnnie Walker continues to deliver exceptional blends that honour their long legacy.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Blue Label vs XR Whisky

Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 08/26/2019

In Whisky Comparison

Singleton 12 yo vs Glenfiddich 12 yo single malt whisky side by side comparison
Today, I embark on a captivating journey, comparing Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old single malt Scotch whiskies. There are many distinctive flavours to enjoy in the world of Speyside whisky, a region renowned for its fruity, nutty, and honeyed sweetness.

Nestled within this whisky-rich landscape are two notable distilleries, located just a stone’s throw from each other and offering their own unique takes on the revered 12 year old single malt category.

These two remarkable spirits are separated by flavour and striking bottle designs: the iconic triangular flask of Glenfiddich stands in stark contrast to the hip flask-inspired elegance of Singleton.

Singleton 12 year old Whisky

Singleton 12 yo vs Glenfiddich 12 yo Review and Tasting notes Singleton 12 yo whisky with glass
Our first stop is at the Dufftown Town Distillery, proudly situated in the heart of Speyside and under the ownership of Diageo.

Most of the malt whisky produced at this distillery finds its way into the blends, notably Bell’s whisky and Johnnie Walker releases. Only 5% of the spirit enjoys the limelight as single malt Scotch whisky.

Singleton 12 yo single malt whisky, a product of this Speyside establishment, undergoes maturation in a combination of American and European oak casks.

Glenfiddich 12 year old Whisky

Singleton 12 yo vs Glenfiddich 12 yo REview and Tasting notes The Glenfiddich 12 yo with glass
Now, let’s turn our attention to the triangular-shaped Glenfiddich bottle, which has earned its place as one of the world’s best-selling single malts. Glenfiddich pioneered packaging, introducing tubes and gift tins for its bottles, a tradition that continues to this day.

What sets Glenfiddich apart is not just its remarkable whisky but also its history of remaining family-owned. Founded in 1886 by William Grant in Dufftown, Scotland, nestled in the Glen of the River Fiddich, this distillery boasts a legacy that is both rich and enduring.

Glenfiddich 12 year old single malt whisky matures in Oloroso sherry and bourbon whisky casks, further enhancing its distinctive character. The Glenfiddich retail for around £30 on Amazon.

Also Read: Glenfiddich 18 vs Glenmorangie 18 yo whisky

Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old Whisky

Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 yo Single Malt Whisky Comparison

	Singleton 12 yo	Glenfiddich 12 yo
Region	Speyside Whisky	Speyside Whisky
ABV	43%	43%
Colour	Deep polished copper	Bright amber
Nose	Sweet with caramel, toffee and vanilla mixed with malt. Notes of rich fruit and sweet spice.	Fresh fruit, oak and honey. Floral notes with faint spices in the background.
Palate	Spice, rich oak and toasted malt. It is rich and nutty with a great mouth feel. Heaps of sweet vanilla and hints of fruit dipped in dark chocolate. Well-balanced with the spicy and sweet in perfect harmony.	Creamy wood notes, toffee and dried fruit. Hint of pear and caramel. Cinnamon and nutmeg. Medium bodied whisky.
Finish	Medium length. Notes of fruit, sweet cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves. There is an underlying layer of nutty toffee sweetness, which is delicious.	Medium length. Notes of oak and spice. Lovely oily mouth feel.
My Rating	Excellent	Excellent
Comments	Easy drinking and affordable. It has an underlying nutty complexity that is delicious.	Great fruity whisky to start someone on his or her whisky journey. Not the most complex, but easy drinking, smooth and well balanced.
Price	$41	$54
Pairs well with	Crispy pork belly or a soft cheese.	A pear and ginger crumble.

Both of these 12 year old releases are accessible and affordable and essential additions to a whisky enthusiast’s collection.

The Glenfiddich brings notes of sweet pear, creamy oak and cinnamon. It has a lovely creamy mouthfeel and finishes in warming oak and spices.

The Singleton has toasted malt and toffee sweetness with nuts and vanilla. There is an abundance of ripe fruit and hints of dark chocolate.

The Singleton exhibits a bit more complexity than its Glenfiddich counterpart, while the Glenfiddich has a remarkable smoothness and an enticingly oily mouthfeel.

Choosing a favourite between these two magnificent offerings is a challenging task. So, I’ve chosen the path of least resistance and keep a bottle of each within easy reach in my home.

Yet, if I were to tip my hand, it’s worth noting that the Glenfiddich has graced my shelf more frequently than the Singleton, perhaps suggesting a subtle preference for the smooth and elegant charms of Glenfiddich.

But ultimately, the choice is yours to make, and exploring the flavours of Singleton 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old whiskies is an adventure well worth embarking upon.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Black vs Double Black Label

Chivas 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 07/15/2019

In Whisky Comparison

In the world of premium whisky, few names shine as brightly as Chivas Regal and Johnnie Walker Black Label. These 12 year old classics share a common origin, originating in grocery stores, and have garnered devoted followings worldwide. Today, I explore Chivas Regal 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label whiskies in the latest instalment of my comparison series.

This blog post is the next instalment of my comparison series. I have looked at quite a few comparisons this year, and it always amazes me how the differences stand out when you taste whiskies side by side. The top read comparison post this year has been the Jack Daniel’s Single Barrel vs Woodford Reserve bourbon.

Today focuses on two iconic Scottish blends that have stood the test of time.

Chivas Regal 12 year old Whisky

Chivas Regal 12 yo blended whisky

Chivas Regal, a name steeped in tradition and nostalgia, traces its roots back to 1801 when a grocery store opened in Aberdeen. Catering to an affluent clientele, this establishment had a cellar that would become the birthplace of a blending tradition that would endure for centuries.

In the early 1900s, Chivas Brothers crafted a unique blend for export to the USA, ultimately named Chivas Regal. However, production faced interruptions due to prohibition and World War 2.

When the dust settled, Chivas Regal was reintroduced as the Chivas Regal 12 year old blended Scotch whisky. Over time it solidified its place in the pantheon of Scotch whiskies. The Strathilsa distillery serves as the spiritual home of Chivas, with a blend composed of various malt and grain whiskies, with a particular emphasis on Speyside releases.

Also Read: Maker’s Mark vs Woodford Reserve

Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 yo blended whisky header

Since 1909, Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky has consistently ranked among the best-selling whiskies globally. Renowned for its unwavering flavour profile and affordable pricing, this classic also traces its origins to a grocery store.

Now celebrating its 110th year, Johnnie Walker is one of the most widely distributed Scotch whisky brands globally. John Walker’s journey began in a grocery store, where he managed the wine and spirits segment. As whisky regulations relaxed, he embarked on blending and selling a variety of whiskies, ultimately labelling them with his own name.

However, his son and grandson truly transformed the brand into the iconic name we recognize today. Johnnie Walker Black Label is a blend of whiskies hailing from all corners of Scotland, from the smoky Islands to the sweeter Speyside, and featuring some Highland malts, all aged for at least 12 years.

Also Read: Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra whisky

Chivas 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Chivas 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky Comparison

	Chivas Regal 12 yo whisky	Johnnie Walker Black Label
Type	Blended Whisky	Blended Whisky
ABV	43%	43%
Colour	Golden wheat with hints of mahogany	Deep polished amber
Nose	Sweet with notes of fresh fruity and cherries, custard, fresh cut flowers and faint hint of dry wood. There is a green freshness on the nose that blend with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.	Faint smoke, red berries and tropical fruit, Christmas pudding with heaps of vanilla toffee and winter spice.
Palate	Toasted oak, spice, malt and heaps of berry sweetness balanced with green notes. Water softens the spicy notes and brings out more creamy toffee and malt.	Smooth and rich with smoke and peat perfectly balanced with fruit, citrus flowers, oak and malt. A creamy toffee sweetness with hints of spice and cereal. You don't even need to add water, but water releases a bit more sweetness.
Finish	Medium length that ends in notes of pepper spice and lemon rind with hints of sweetness.	Awesome. Long and rewarding balanced between fruity sweetness, smoke, citrus peel, vanilla and warming pepper spice.
My Rating	Very Good	Divine
Comments	It is a smooth, easy drinking medium bodied dram.	Rich and rewarding. Full bodied.
Price	$37	$40
Pairs well with	Hazelnut chocolates, fresh tropical fruit, coconut, tuna and chicken satay.	A cheese platter or roasted pork.

In the face-off between these two whisky titans, Chivas Regal 12 and Johnnie Walker Black Label prove their mettle as enduring classics. While personal preference may sway towards one or the other, there’s no denying the distinct character of each.

The Chivas Regal 12 year old whisky stands tall, boasting bold flavours and a rich history that harks back to its grocery store origins. It is known for its fruity sweetness balanced with toasted oak, malt and toffee notes. Spices, red berries and hints of green mingles with black pepper and lemon. Smooth and easy drinking, this blend offers consistent flavour.

On the other hand, the Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky offers a harmonious blend with a touch of peaty smokiness, making it a perennial favourite. Creamy toffee, oak, cereal and spices stand next to the peat in a perfect balance. Hints of vanilla and Christmas pudding mixed with pepper. Big and bold with a long finish.

The Black Label offers a bolder experience. The peat, toffee sweetness and spices complement each other perfectly. It is well-balanced and inviting. The Chivas Regal is softer with a more fruity sweetness and warming toasted oak notes that offer a smooth, more gentle experience. Perfect for someone who prefers a more fruit-forward drink.

Cost wize these two bottles are both similarly priced. On Amazon the Chivas Regal retail for around £30 and the Black Label for around £34. Both these drams are affordable and accessible.

There is a spot in my drinks cabinet for both these drams. In tribute to tradition and sentiment, a bottle of Chivas Regal 12 year old whisky will always have a place on my shelves, alongside the ever-enticing Johnnie Walker Black Label. Cheers to these two great classics!

Also Read:Chivas Regal 12 vs Glenfiddich 12 year old Whisky

Signature Rare Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 07/08/2019

In Blended whisky

My hubby travels a lot. He goes all over the world, but quite frequently into Africa. About two years ago, he was flying back from Mozambique and dropped me a message from Maputo Airport.It was a photo of a Signature Rare Aged whisky.

I have never seen or heard about this brand in South Africa, so the bottle was relegated to the back of the cupboard. But I kept on noticing it. It has a unique shape, and this week I decided, we can just as well taste it.

Also Read: Royal Challenge Whisky

I started doing some research on the Signature Rare Aged whisky. I found that it was a blend of Islay, Highland and Indian whisky. Master Blender Caroline Martin put this blend together. It is part of United Spirits Ltd in India and is owned by Diageo.

Launched in 1994 and is known for its iconic octagonal green-coloured bottles. The Signature Premier grain whisky is also available.

I am not sure how this bottle landed in Maputo Airport, and I have not seen it again. But it is part of Diageo, so it might not be all bad…

Signature Rare Aged Whisky Review

COUNTRY: India

ABV: 42.8%

COLOUR: Golden

NOSE: Very subtle with notes of sweetness, fruit, oak, and caramel. Green notes, menthol with a faint acid bitterness.

PALATE: The Signature whisky has a few alcohol notes when tasting it for the first time. There are notes of oak, vanilla, caramel, and molasses sweetness. I am battling to get the Highland and Islay notes in this release. Hints of green grass and juniper. Water softens the alcohol notes but also tones down all the other notes.

FINISH: Short ending in sweet caramel

RATING: GOOD

Not the most complex dram. It is a bit one dimensional and inoffensive. Indeed not the worst whisky I have tried, but rather subtle and a bit unsophisticated.

Looking back at drams I did not enjoy at all; the Signature is slightly better than the Galloway Single Grain and the Schoonspruit 2010 Single Barrel whiskey.

I think it will work nicely in tall drink cocktails as an alcohol base from which to build on. I have seen this release here in Mauritius as well. Have you tried this release? Your thoughts?

Also Read: Paul John Nirvana Whisky

Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 05/13/2019

In Whisky Comparison

ardbeg 10 vs talisker 10 yo single malt whisky side by side comparison
Today I have a big battle, a courageous battle; the battle of the islands. A side by side comparison of the Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 year old single malt Scotch whisky. Nestled amidst the rugged landscapes and salty sea breeze on the Isle of Skye, is a dram that has stolen my heart; the Talisker 10 year old whisky.

In my whisky journey, I’ve discovered that timing matters. If I had encountered this island dram earlier, I might not have fully appreciated its allure. However, there is another Scottish island 10 year old whisky that has achieved cult status and that consistently offers a delicious drinking experience. One of John’s favourites; the Ardbeg 10 year old.

The Talisker 10 year old whisky embodies the essence of a coastal fishing village. In contrast, the Ardbeg 10 year old whisky emanates from the heart of peat. Today, I invite you to join me on a comparative journey as we explore the distinctive flavours of Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 year old whisky.

Ardbeg 10 year old Whisky

Review and tasting notes Ardbeg 10 yo whisky with glass

Ardbeg, situated on the southern shores of Islay, proudly holds the title “Peat Capital of the World.” Their Ardbeg 10 year old Islay single malt is a testament to this reputation. It is crafted from heavily peated malt, boasting a remarkable peat content ranging from 55 to 65 ppm (parts per million).

Aged for a minimum of 10 years in ex-bourbon barrels, this whisky is a prized creation under the LVMH (Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy) umbrella.

Talisker 10 year old Whisky

Review and tasting notes Talisker 10 yo with glass

Venturing to the windswept Isle of Skye, we discover the Talisker distillery, founded in 1830 by Hugh and Kenneth MacAskill along the shores of Loch Harport. Now a part of the Diageo family, Talisker plays a vital role in the Johnnie Walker Red Label blend.

The Talisker 10 year old single malt carries an entirely different peat profile, with peat levels typically resting between 18 and 22 ppm.

Also Read: Ardbeg Uigeadail vs An Oa whisky

Ardbeg 10 vs Talisker 10 year old Whisky

ardbeg 10 vs talisker 10 Whisky Comparison

	Ardbeg 10 yo	Talker 10 yo
Region	Islay Whisky	Island Whisky
ABV	46%	45.8%
Peat Level	55 to 65 ppm	18 to 22 ppm
Colour	Pale Straw with green hints	Bright Gold
Nose	Peat and smoke with hints of vanilla, sea salt and citrus sweetness. Not overwhelming, but beautifully balanced and rich.	Smoke and peat mixed with fruity sweetness, seaweed and salty air. A dry bit of sundried fish and orange blossoms.
Palate	The characteristic Ardbeg peat and smoke and medicinal notes balanced with oaky vanilla sweetness and spice and lemon. Dark roasted coffee and a bit of iodine.	Peat, smoke with hints of ash and salt. This is all wonderfully balanced out with a fruity sweetness with hints of black pepper and coastal air. Faint hints of chocolate.
Finish	One of the longest and full-bodied finishes around with salted caramel, peat and hints of sweetness. An epic finish!	Rich and rewarding ending on notes of faint peat, bits of pepper and soft sweetness.
My Rating	Excellent	Excellent
Comments	Not chill-filtered Complex, and big, but not overwhelming.	It is rich and wonderfully balanced. This ensures that it is easy drinking and delicious.
You will like it if you are looking for…	If you are looking for the Islay medicinal peat notes, this is it. Perfectly balanced with peat, smoke and fruit.	If you are looking for sea spray, salt type of peat to remind you of the ocean. Warming like a wood fire while the storm rages outside.
Price	$65	$75
Pairs well with	Garlic leg of Lamb or a charcuterie platter, Blue cheese or smoky BBQ pork	Kipper quiche or paté, Strong cheddar or Roquefort, smoked almonds, sushi

Tasting these two whiskies side by side opens up a fresh perspective, allowing us to discern the nuances that might otherwise be overshadowed when sipped in isolation. The distinctions between these two island drams become pronounced in a direct side by side comparison.

Talisker graces the palate with a peaty, maritime essence, evoking the very soul of the ocean. There are notes of sun-dried fish, peat, smoke and orange blossoms. Fruity sweetness mixed with bits of chocolate and black pepper.

Ardbeg leans towards a more medicinal character. There are notes of peat and smoke mixed with vanilla and a medicinal (TCP) note balanced out with oak and dark coffee. Big and bold with a nice complexity.

Both are exceptional in their own right. Personally, I find Talisker to be the easier-drinking option. At the same time, my husband has a penchant for the bolder flavours of Ardbeg. Fortunately, we need not choose between them, as both standard releases are readily accessible and reasonably priced.

In addition to this Ardbeg vs Talisker comparison, I’ve also conducted a side-by-side exploration of Ardbeg 10 yo and Lagavulin 16 yo whisky, further enriching my Islay whisky journey.

So, whether you’re a seasoned whisky enthusiast or a newcomer to the world of spirits, these comparative tastings offer a delightful way to appreciate the intricacies and artistry that go into crafting these exceptional island drams.

Also Read: Ardbeg 10 vs An Oa Whisky