Description
About Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Scotch Whisky
Upon his father’s death in 1820, a young grocer named Johnnie Walker invested his $417 inheritance into a grocery and spirits shop on High Street in Scotland. While Walker himself was a teetotaller, he sold a popular single malt whisky under the name Walker’s Kilmarnock Whisky (at the time, it was common for each store to have its own unique spirits). Walker’s store was moderately successful, but by the time he retired in the 1850s, whisky sales represented just 8% of his business.
Key Facts / What It Is
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It is a blended Scotch whisky from Johnnie Walker (Diageo).
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ABV (alcohol by volume): 40%
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Age Statement: No age statement (NAS). It replaced an older “Gold Label 18 Year” version. Gold Label Reserve was launched (or re‑defined) in 2012.
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Important components: Contains malt whiskies and grain whiskies from various Johnnie Walker/Diageo stocks; prominently features Clynelish single malt in the blend. Other malts like Cardhu, Blair Athol, plus grain whisky (e.g. Cameronbridge) are often cited.
Flavor / Tasting Profile
Here’s what people generally report (nose / taste / finish):
| Element | Notes / Impressions |
|---|---|
| Nose / Aroma | Sweet honey, vanilla, toffee / caramel; orchard / stone fruit (apple/pear or peach); subtle floral / meadow‑flower notes; light smoke or peat in the background; gentle spices like nutmeg or cinnamon. |
| Palate / Taste | Smooth and creamy; honeyed sweetness up front; vanilla, butterscotch, malt, sometimes dried fruit (yellow sultanas etc.); a mild fruitiness; light smoke; soft oak / woody spice emerges. |
| Finish | Longish, sweet, with lingering honey and subtle smoke; some spice (gingerbread, white pepper or warm spice); finish tends to fade leaving soft wood / honey notes. |
Texture tends to be silky / velvety, more “indulgent” than harsh.
Strengths / What Makes It Good
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Smoothness & approachability: With honey, vanilla and fruit leading, it’s easy to sip neat; good “luxury blend” feel without being overly smoky or strong.
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Balanced blend of malt + grain + gentle smoke: The inclusion of Clynelish gives a bit of character beyond “just sweet,” but smoke is mild so it doesn’t overpower.
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Versatility: Works neat, with a few drops of water, or in premium cocktails. Could also be good for celebrations or gifts due its polish.
Reviews
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