Scott_E
Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve
Blended — Scotland
Reviewed
December 6, 2021 (edited July 25, 2022)
When I was really becoming a “regular“ scotch drinker, 150 years ago, my go-to was JW Black. My parents recognize that fact. For the past few Christmas’, they have purchased me this. JW Gold Reserve. I still have an affinity towards JW. When out and there is nothing that appeals to me, JW most certainly will be found. A staple scotch. Well, never having tasted the Gold, I finally opened one of the gifted bottles. I took my time to taste and think about this one and am now half a bottle in.
Opens with an enticing, soft floral nose with a touch of ethanol. Let it breathe some to aerate. What loosens ups reveals honey, black tea, lemon zest, ground cinnamon, vanilla. Hints of heather and cereal round out the aromas.
The aromas are embodied on the palate with a honey and tea base. Vanilla custard, light-brown sugar, rice pudding with a cinnamon dusting. Oak spices provide a black peppery tingle. On the fade, traces of peat/tobacco makes a presence.
An medium length earthy finish of oak, leather, tobacco bring it all to an end.
Johnnie Walker. Like it or dislike it. But the brand is consistent and steady. Gold Reserve is crafted to be approachable, pleasant and inoffensive. Clynelish is clearly detectable and is a great binder for blending and always makes it or provides for a good dram. At $79 for admission, it is a bit pricey. But overall, enjoyable, easy sipping blend. Worthy of a try. [$79][86/100][Tasted: 12/4/21]
79.0
USD
per
Bottle
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@Ctrexman Interesting - we would never, ever see Green and Blue label at the same price. Green is typically around $80 and Blue around $225
@Ctrexman I'm with @Scott_E that the green is far better value. In fact, I like the flavor of the green better overall. That said, if I saw them both for $45, I'd probably buy a bottle of blue because it would be nice to have around as a point of reference.
@Ctrexman Tough question. I think I would have to go Green. The peaty style is up my alley. That being said, there are times when you just may not all that peat and Blue can satisfy. They are both good. I think it comes down to your mood. It does go to show, in my opinion, the value for Green is far superior to Blue.
Ive been seeing the Celeb for around$75. Im with you on this Gold its good but nothing special. Which would you take if same price Green or Blue?
@angstrom @cascode I recently had the Blue for a special occasion. I haven’t had that in some time. I found it quite enjoyable. It was easy, silky and decent flavor, though not overly complex. In fact, my sister who does not care for whisky looks forward to a pour of this. Green is always on hand. I will have to add the 18 as a try along with the Celebratory And Region Blends.
@cascode - Agreed! Green is off the charts good and a great value. I agree the Celebratory is a good purchase, but not a repeat buy. Muscular, interesting, and takes oxygen well…plus comes in a cool package. Something I enjoyed, but not something I crave. The 18 Year is a nice upgrade from the Gold for only a few bucks, but desperately needs to be a higher ABV. Black is an all time classic. Blue I found to be a bit boring.
I have a soft spot for JW as well - the Green Label is my perennial favourite and good value for money, but the Gold and Platinum blends are fine as well. Despite the baggage it carries, if you can look past its positioning as "luxury commodity" the Blue Label is a fine whisky too. The Celebratory blend was more "interesting" than enjoyable and I would only recommend it to whisky nerds - and I'd bet good money that no-one would buy a second bottle. The Regions blended malts that came out over the last couple of years are outstanding. Check out the Islay and Highlands blends especially.
@Scott_E that one might be limited ..it was $60 when it came out earlier this year. Grab it before the damn thing goes 2-3x.
@PBMichiganWolverine I haven’t tried the yet either. I do plan on, one day, grabbing a bottle. Both because of good reviews and being a JW appreciator.
@Scott_E not that I’ve tried it , but I’ve heard the Celebratory blend is even better , if not on par with the Green.
@PBMichiganWolverine the green is absolute favorite. And a steal of a price. Great stuff, the Green.
Good point on JW..they nail consistency. Have you tried the Green? Amazing value and really good