Johnnie Walker Red Label

I'm pretty fond of the Johnnie Walker line, although the red label is by far the worst but it's still drinkable. It definitely is made for cocktails, although I would contend the black label is even better for that purpose as well. The nose hints at light smoke and cereal. The palate has some oak, vanilla and the slightest hint of smoke. The finish is a touch bitter and a bit hot for 80 proof, but not terribly so. Again, it's not really designed to be consumed neat, but while it may be a bit boring, it's still decent. For the price it's a solid value, just dont expect it to blow you away. In the end though, I think the black label is an even better value since it's far superior neat and elevates cocktails to a greater degree than this.

The main thing on this as a neat dram is that it's somehow better than I was expecting. I've had JW Red many times in the past, but I'm struggling to remember a time where I had it neat as a whisky without a mixer. You can taste some of the Caol Ila and Talisker as wisps and hints against the predominantly sweet grain whisky base. There is honey and light smoke on the nose (almost a memory of Talisker). The palate is decidedly OK, with some layers of creamy sweet spice and wood. Once the initial creaminess leaves the spice is the predominant taste which lingers for ages. Again a little smoke and oak at the very end. For me, this is a cocktail whisky. It's fine as a dram and I'm more than happy to drink it as such. A decent blend.