I was scanning the shelves of my local liquor store back on Black Friday, looking for deals of any and every kind. Well, I stumbled across this new variation from Johnnie Walker. The Blender’s Batch series is a run of experimental blends ranging from ex-American rye casks to Spanish wine casks. This is the latest one and I snagged it for a reasonable $22 US. It’s the industry standard 40% ABV and definitely has coloring added to make it appear as though it spent a significant time in old wine barrels. It’s a pinkish hue and makes quick, skinny legs in the Glencairn. The nose is still dominated by oak casks and vanilla, with the faintest hint of red berries and grapes. The palate is pretty delicate with just enough heat at the midpoint to keep beginner whisky drinkers from running away, crying. The finish is smooth with some vanilla and oak, but it doesn’t hang around very long. Overall, I said I was done with Johnnie Walker awhile ago and this special blend isn’t close to pulling me back in. I could, however, see mixing this with a few ice cubes and some seltzer water or Sprite and making a peppy, pick-me-up. If that’s what you’re into I suggest giving this one a try, especially if you can snag a bottle for around $20-25. As for the experienced, neat whisky drinker- it’s another mostly uninspired, money grab from JW. The ability to turn this into a nice little mixer gives it a small boost in my rating, but it’s still just a 2.75-3 star dram. Cheers, my friends.