Jameson Irish whiskey vs Johnnie Walker Black Label blended whisky Comparison
When it comes to the world of spirits, few names resonate as widely as Jameson and Johnnie Walker Black Label. In this article, I will delve into the realms of blended whisky versus Irish whiskey as I compare these two iconic brands: Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label blended whisky.

Before we embark on our tasting journey, let’s get to know our contenders a bit better.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Blue vs Black Label Whisky

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Review and tasting notes Jameson's Irish whiskey with glass Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Comparison
Jameson Irish whiskey traces back to 1780 when John Jameson, a lawyer from Scotland, founded the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin. This marked the inception of a legacy that would conquer the world. However, turbulent world events such as the Irish War of Independence and Prohibition in the US posed significant challenges to the Irish whiskey industry.

Fast forward to the 1960s, when Irish Distillers, a conglomerate comprising Powers, Jameson, and the Cork Distillery Company, emerged to breathe new life into Irish whiskey. In the 1970s, these distilleries centralized production at the New Midleton Distillery in County Cork, a pivotal moment in the history of Jameson.

Today, Jameson is a blend of pot still and grain whiskey, triple-distilled to achieve that famed Irish smoothness. It matures for four years in oak barrels and has consistently been one of the top-selling whiskies since 1909.

As part of the Pernod Ricard portfolio, Jameson shares the stage with other esteemed Irish whiskey brands like Redbreast, Green Spot, and Yellow Spot whiskey.

Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Johnnie Walker Black Label 12 yo with glass Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Comparison

Now, let’s turn our attention to Johnnie Walker. You’ve undoubtedly seen the iconic walking man symbol adorning bottles in liquor stores worldwide. While Johnnie Walker boasts a range of expressions, the Johnnie Walker Black Label blended Scotch is a true gem in their collection.

Johnnie Walker, a brand synonymous with Scotch whiskey, is known for its global presence. Johnnie Walker Black Label, in particular, represents a blend of approximately 40 whiskies from across Scotland.

Part of the Diageo stable, Johnnie Walker has various releases, including the intriguing Johnnie Walker Double Black whisky.

It’s time to pit these two giants, Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label, against each other.

Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black label whisky comparison

	Jameson Whiskey	Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky
Type	Irish Whiskey	Blended Whisky
ABV	43%	43%
Colour	Gold	Deep polished amber
Nose	Freshly baked banana bread, tropical fruit with bits of spicy wood and caramel. Grain mixed with plums, pineapple. Complex and delicious.	Faint smoke, red berries and tropical fruit, Christmas pudding with heaps of vanilla toffee and winter spice.
Palate	Very smooth. Medium body but the tropical fruit deliciousness promised by the nose is not there. Bits of malt, aniseed mixed with vanilla and pepper notes. Adding water softens the pepper notes.	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	Short with pepper and orange rind.	Awesome. Long and rewarding balanced between fruity sweetness, smoke, citrus peel, vanilla and warming pepper spice.
My Rating	Good	Divine
Comments	The nose promised the world. It was delicious and complex, however, it all fell flat on the palate. Not as complex as I was expecting after the delicious nose.	Rich and rewarding. Full bodied.
Price	$32	$40
Pairs well with	Hawaiian pizza, Smoked salmon, dried fruit.	A cheese platter or roasted pork.

Interestingly, the Jameson and Johnnie Walker Black Label receive similar ratings on Whizzky, yet they offer distinctly different tasting experiences.

The Jamesons bring freshly baked banana bread and tropical notes with malt, vanilla and pepper. The nose is warming and inviting, but the richness doesn’t quite translate to the palate. The Black Label has Christmas cake and red berries mixed with peat, smoke and buttery toffee. Complex, bold and delicious.

While the Jameson teases with promises on the nose, it falls short on the palate. The Black Label, however, delivers a bold and unforgettable flavour profile that captivates the senses.

In this tasting journey, a clear favourite emerges. The Johnnie Walker Black Label commands the stage as the whisky to savour first. In my humble opinion, there is no contest. Its boldness, rich flavour, and memorable character set it apart from the Jameson Irish whiskey.

The Jameson whiskey is cheaper when compared to the Black Label. The price differential however is small. Jameson whiskey retail for around £25 on Amazon and the Johnnie Walker Black Label whisky for around £30. A small price difference but a big difference in taste.

In conclusion, each iconic spirit carries its unique legacy and flavour profile. Whether you lean towards the smooth embrace of Jameson or the bold allure of Johnnie Walker Black Label, both whiskies offer a taste of tradition and craftsmanship that has conquered the hearts of enthusiasts worldwide.

Stay tuned for more spirited comparisons as we continue our exploration of the world of whiskey. Additionally, if you’re curious about how Jameson stacks up against other Irish whiskey contenders, check out our side-by-side comparison of Jameson with Tullamore DEW in another tasting adventure.

Also Read: Johnnie Walker Red Label vs Black Label whisky

Jameson Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 04/06/2020

In Irish Whiskey

In these trying times, savouring life’s little pleasures is essential. For many, that includes enjoying a glass of their favourite whiskey. Among the top choices in South Africa, right up there with Jack Daniel’s and Johnnie Walker, is the ever-popular Jameson triple distilled Irish whiskey.

If you’ve been living under a rock and haven’t sampled Jameson in a while, now’s the perfect moment to explore the intricacies of this quintessential Irish whiskey.

The Jameson name is synonymous with Irish whiskey, and with good reason. John Jameson, a Scottish lawyer, established the Bow Street Distillery in Dublin in 1780. The legacy didn’t stop with him; his four sons followed his distilling footsteps.

By the turn of the 19th century, Jameson triple distilled Irish whiskey was renowned globally. But as with any great tale, world events took their toll on the Irish whiskey industry. The Irish War of Independence, subsequent trade wars, and Prohibition in the US all conspired to limit their access to the vast American market.

Also Read: Tullamore DEW Whiskey

During these challenges, Scottish distilleries embraced the column stills in the mid-19th century, revolutionising production. Unfortunately, the labour-intensive single pot still process that characterised Irish whiskey couldn’t keep pace with this innovative technique.

Fast forward to the 1960s, and a pivotal moment in Irish whiskey history occurred. Three of the four surviving Irish distilleries, namely Powers, Jameson, and the Cork Distillery Company, joined forces to create Irish Distillers.

Then, in the 1970s, they centralised production at the New Midleton Distillery in County Cork, Ireland. Today, the Jameson brand is owned by Pernod Ricard. This conglomerate boasts a comprehensive portfolio of Irish whiskey brands, including Redbreast, Green Spot, and Yellow Spot whiskey.

Other releases in the Jameson stable include the Jameson Caskmates IPA, and the Select Reserve. But let’s shift our focus to the main star: the Jameson triple distilled Irish whiskey.

Jameson Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey Review

Jameson is a blend of pot still and grain whiskey. Like all Irish whiskey, it is triple distilled to give it the well-known Irish smoothness. The Jameson Irish whiskey is aged for 4 years in oak.

COUNTRY: Ireland

ABV:43%

COLOUR: Gold

NOSE: The aromatic journey begins with freshly baked banana bread, tropical fruits, and spicy wood and caramel hints. It’s a delicious blend of grains with plums, pineapple, and banana. The complexity of these scents is both intriguing and delightful.

PALATE: Jameson Irish whiskey delivers a smooth experience. The medium body features subtle malt undertones, aniseed, vanilla, and traces of pepper notes. Although it’s less multifaceted than anticipated after the captivating nose, adding a splash of water can soften the pepper notes.

FINISH: The finish is relatively short, leaving a gentle combination of pepper and a touch of orange rind.

RATING: GOOD

Now, let’s talk about the experience. While the nose sets high expectations with its complexity and deliciousness, the taste doesn’t quite measure up. Jameson possesses the trademark Irish smoothness, but, in comparison to the Caskmate releases, it’s somewhat bland.

The world of Irish whiskey offers more exciting options. Still, it’s hard to deny that Jameson triple distilled Irish whiskey excels in marketing, making it a recognisable choice. In my recent exploration of Irish whiskey, Teeling has captured my attention with its delicious releases.

Also, if I had to choose between Jameson and the Checkers Private Barrel Co. Irish whiskey release, the latter would be my preference. Nevertheless, Jameson triple distilled Irish whiskey is an affordable night-out option perfect for crafting cocktails. I’ll reserve my Jameson bottle for those cosy Irish coffees.

In South Africa the Jameson is priced for around R 360 and in India it costs around ₹ 3059.

To truly appreciate the distinction between Jameson and other brands, I did a side-by-side with Johnnie Walker Black Label. The contrast is remarkable, highlighting the unique character of each.

Additionally, I explored how Jameson stands up against Tullamore DEW whiskey, offering insight into the diversity of Irish whiskey options. This is also makes for a refreshing cocktail if you mix Jameson Irish whiskey and ginger ale.

Exploring the ever-expanding world of Irish whiskey is essential to finding the perfect match for your palate. So, as we navigate the challenges of this lockdown, take solace in the glass of Jameson and the world of flavours it offers.

Also Read: Pairing Whisky and Pizza

Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra Whisky Comparison

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 12/09/2019

In Whisky Comparison

Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra whisky side by side comparison
When it comes to whisky, few names evoke the same sense of timeless sophistication as Chivas Regal. This renowned brand has been synonymous with exquisite whisky experiences for generations, and today, I will dive into a captivating comparison between two of its releases: Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra blended Scotch whisky.

Before we delve into the delightful showdown between these two whiskies, let’s take a moment to appreciate the rich heritage of the Chivas Brothers. Their story dates back to 1801, with the opening of a high-end grocery store in Aberdeen.

At this emporium, they catered to an affluent clientele, offering an array of luxury products like coffee, spices, and imported French brandy. In the cellar beneath this store, the brothers embarked on a tradition of blending and ageing whiskies, setting the stage for Chivas Regal’s legacy.

Also Read: Ardbeg 10 vs An Oa Whisky

In response to their patrons’ demand for smoother, more decadent whisky, the brothers crafted their first proprietary blend, known as Royal Glen Dee. Another blend, Royal Strathythan, soon followed this. As the demand continued to soar, the brothers made a strategic move by acquiring the Strathisla distillery in Moray, Speyside.

Strathisla remains one of the key components of the Chivas Regal blend and stands as the spiritual home of this iconic brand. Notably, Strathisla Distillery is the oldest continuously operating distillery in Scotland, with its roots tracing back to 1786.

The Chivas Regal brand is part of the Pernod Ricard group.

Chivas Regal 12 year old Whisky

Chivas Regal 12 yo blended whisky with glass Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra whisky comparison
Chivas Brothers’ journey took them across the Atlantic as they created a whisky blend for export to the USA during the early 1900s. This whisky bore the name Chivas Regal. However, the production faced disruptions due to Prohibition and World War II.

After these turbulent times, Chivas Regal returned as Chivas Regal 12 year old blended whisky. Chivas Regal 12 year old Scotch is a blend of various malt and grain whiskies, each matured for a minimum of 12 years.

Chivas Regal Extra Whisky

Chivas Regal Extra with glass Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra whisky comparison

In 2014, Chivas introduced a new whisky to their portfolio, the Chivas Regal Extra blended Scotch whisky. This creation gracefully bridges the gap between the Chivas 12 year old and the Chivas 18 year old.

Chivas Extra distinguishes itself with the absence of an age statement. What sets it apart is a slightly higher percentage of sherry cask-aged whisky in the blend.

Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra Whisky

	Chivas Regal 12 yo	Chivas Regal Extra whisky
Type	Blended Whisky	Blended Whisky
ABV	43%	43%
Colour	Golden wheat	Dark caramel with red tints
Nose	Sweet with notes of fresh red fruit, custard, fresh-cut flowers and hints of dry wood. There is a green freshness on the nose that blend with hints of cinnamon and vanilla.	Fruity sweetness mixed with cherries, pears, warming nutmeg and caramel. Not overly sweet, but delicate and fresh.
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. Medium body.	Medium bodied whisky with notes of pears and cinnamon mixed with cherries, hints of dry oak and caramel. Not overly sweet and water softens and smooths out the dram.
Finish	Medium length that ends in notes of pepper spice and lemon rind with hints of fruity sweetness.	Fruity sweetness with hints of spice.
My Rating	Very Good	Very Good
Price	$37	$43
Pairs well with	Hazelnut chocolates, fresh tropical fruit, coconut, tuna and chicken satay.	Salami, smoked nuts, Parmesan Cheese, Caramelized apples.

When it comes to flavour, the Chivas 12 year old offers enticing notes of red fruit, fresh flowers, and toasted oak, with a well-balanced infusion of spices and creamy toffee.

In contrast, Chivas Extra showcases delightful flavours of cherries, pears, caramel, and dry oak, accented by subtle hints of spice.

The true magic unfolds when you taste these two side by side. Chivas Regal Extra’s sherry influence becomes notably pronounced, resulting in a smoother and more delicate profile. On the other hand, Chivas 12 boasts a spicier character, a more complex nose, and a longer finish, making it a favourite among many.

I took to Twitter to gauge the preferences of fellow whisky enthusiasts, and the overwhelming consensus favoured the Chivas 12 year old whisky, a sentiment shared by John as well.

Personally, I found myself captivated by the Chivas Extra, with its softer, sweeter, and more delicate notes. It provided the perfect warmth and comfort on a rainy afternoon.

As a parting thought, it’s worth mentioning that Chivas Regal has also expanded its lineup with Chivas XV blended whisky. Stay tuned as I plan to compare these three exceptional releases in the coming months.

Until then, savour the elegance and complexity of Chivas Regal’s offerings, a testament to the enduring legacy of this esteemed brand.

Also Read: Buffalo Trace vs Woodford Reserve Bourbon

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

Ballantine’s 30 year old Whisky

By Jeannette Wentzel

On 09/03/2018

In Blended whisky

Time and again, this blend impresses me. I have yet to meet a bottle of Ballantine’s that I do not love. The Ballantine’s 17 yo and the Scapa Distillers Edition are divine whiskies. And today I am trying one of the older releases in my collection. The Ballantine’s 30 year old blended Scotch whisky. What a long time that is. A whole lifetime.

Imagine how the world changed from when the spirit first entered into the barrel until it was bottled. With the amazing improvements in technology we see today, this whisky was a youngster before cell phones. Now smartphones have more computing power than the first space ships. A lot has changed in the 30 years.

As with so many well-known blends today, Ballantine’s Scotch whisky can trace its heritage back to 1827, when George Ballantine set up a small grocery store in Edinburgh. He started supplying a range of whiskies to his customers. In 1865 George and his son Archibald opened a larger business in Glasgow.

Also Read: Auchentoshan American Oak Whisky

Here he concentrated on the wine and spirit trade, and he also began to create his own blends. These blends inspired additional demand and his second son George Jnr joined the business.

After George Snr’s passing, the sons sold the company to allow for more expansion, and after various owner changes, it ended up in the Pernod Ricard stable.

The Ballantine’s flavour is dependent on malts from Miltonduff, Scapa and Glenburgie and blended with many other single malts and single grains. The Ballantine’s 30 year old blended whisky has won a Gold at the International Spirits Challenge, and Jim Murray gave it 94 points.

Ballantine’s 30 year old Whisky Review

ABV: 43%

COLOUR: Golden amber

NOSE: The nose explodes with richness and complexity. It has honey, Christmas cake, caramel, toffee dried oak, vanilla and sherry with faint hints of smoke. All wonderfully combined.

PALATE: Rich and full-bodied, it is super smooth. Bits of oak spice swirling around dried fruits and nuts. Dark chocolate and treacle lurk somewhere with suggestions of smoke. Each sip brings out different notes on the palette. The Ballantine’s 30 year old has a beautiful balance between spicy and sweet. Adding water softens the spices a bit, and it is better without water.

FINISH: This is probably the best finish I have had in a long, long time. It never ends! It’s just brilliant going on and on and slowly slipping away like a sunset but leaving a wonderful glow.

RATING: DIVINE

I love Ballantine’s whisky. There is something in the combination of spice and sweetness from the distilleries that Ballantine’s uses that just works on my palate. Over the last couple of years, this has become my favourite blended whisky range.

From the entry-level to this masterpiece, Ballantine’s consistently set an amazingly high bar for the craft of the whisky maker. And this bottle is no exception. Rich, complex and utterly delicious! Probably one of my favourite Ballantine’s bottles ever.

Also Read: Glenbrynth Bourbon Cask whisky

Meandering the world, one whisky at a time

Tag: Pernod Ricard Page 4 of 7

Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Jameson Irish Whiskey

Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Jameson vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Jameson Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey

Jameson Triple Distilled Irish Whiskey Review

Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra Whisky Comparison

Chivas Regal 12 year old Whisky

Chivas Regal Extra Whisky

Chivas Regal 12 vs Chivas Extra Whisky

Chivas 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Chivas Regal 12 year old Whisky

Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Chivas 12 vs Johnnie Walker Black Label Whisky

Ballantine’s 30 year old Whisky

Ballantine’s 30 year old Whisky Review