Alcohol in the news; Johnny Walker Black Label

From the Buzz

Johnny Walker Black Label

It seems the buzz is going to be starting a whiskey column. Cool.

I love whiskey — all of the whiskeys. I like the sweetness of bourbons, the smoke of scotch, the way Canadian whiskeys blend in cocktails and the smoothness of Irish whiskeys. I come from a long line of whiskey lovers, too. Russell’s Reserve makes an excellent rye whiskey that my family takes immense pride in even though we have absolutely no affiliation other than the same name. There are so many components and so much history behind whiskey that make it such an interesting and complex drink-turned-hobby and collection. But mostly, I like sharing whiskey and talking about my favorites.

With this column, I’m going to write about — loosely, review — one whiskey a week. My first: Johnny Walker Black Label. It’s one of my favorites because I can drink it neat. It’s not so rough that I need ice or so light that I am left wanting. At around $30 for a bottle, it is also one of the best for the money or for those looking to breakthrough into the world of scotch.

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Black starts light at the tip of the tongue. It’s sweet in the way of vanilla, and as it finishes it opens up, showing spiciness and smoke. The peat develops through the end, but there is a definite overall smoothness to the scotch in a well-structured and intentional way.

It is not smooth for lack of character. Nothing jumps out harshly. Instead, the flavors roll and develop slowly and evenly through the drink. Because Johnny Walker Black Label is a blend, it acquaints the drinker with different regions of scotch in one drink. The peat and salt of the Islay region scotches compliment the sweetness of the Speyside region. It is all sewn together.

The beauty is really in the following drinks, though, where you become more familiar with the scotch, and as it airs, its flavors will change slightly.

I've recently been able to start enjoying whiskey, so I look forward to keep reading these reviews.