Johnnie Walker Double Black

Score: 49

Johnnie Walker Double Black came in 7th place in the tasting, a modest showing for a blend that promises boldness but didn’t quite deliver the fireworks. Originally launched as a travel retail exclusive, it’s matured in heavily charred oak casks and features a higher proportion of peated Islay and West Coast malts, aiming for a deeper, smokier profile than the classic Black Label. The nose opens with sweet aromatic smoke, followed by toffee, honey, ripe apple, and a touch of peach. But on arrival, it’s thin and lacking weight or texture. There’s gentle peat, light vanilla, a hint of coffee, and some citrus, lemons, perhaps. Nothing’s off, but it’s all a bit muted. The palate brings BBQ ribs, wood smoke, creamy vanilla, and a dash of clove and cinnamon, but it’s hot and spicy without much finesse. Still, it held its ground. A solid smoky blend for casual sipping, but not one that stirred much excitement in the room.