Johnnie Walker Red Label

Tasted in Whisky Magazine Issue 9 by Michael Jackson and Paul Pacult.

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Tasting Notes

Michael Jackson Nose Very aromatic, indeed. Sexily earthy. Peaty, junipery, fruity. Palate Robust malt and grain. Very lively. Scenty spiciness. Gingery. Comes on hot and strong. Finish Island smokiness and saltiness emerging: lingering and insistent. Comment Full of youthful daring, but with enough stamina to last all night (this means that you and your buddy will probably drink the whole bottle).

Paul Pacult Nose Feathery wisps of dry grain emerge after a few moments of air contact. Beyond that are coy notes of holiday spice and dark caramel. Washes out after only three minutes. Palate Runs the risk of being too sugary-sweet at palate entry as the brown sugar taste and medium-bodied texture coat the tongue like a wool blanket. The mid-palate is better behaved, offering subtler tastes of toasted walnut, pine-nut, and ripe red fruit. Finish The aftertaste is very extended, a tad fiery, and exhibits a quick flash of brine/peat. Comment I liked this blend more than the last time I sampled it blind several years ago.