About this whisky

Johnnie Walker started in 1820 when John Walker began blending in his Kilmarnock grocery, and Black Label has been the benchmark of the range for generations. It brings together single malt and grain whiskies from the four corners of Scotland, every one matured for at least 12 years, in the famous square bottle with the slanted label and the Striding Man.

In the glass it is rich and smooth, with layers of dark fruit, sweet vanilla and spice, and a gentle thread of smoke that runs from the first sip to the finish. That balance makes it remarkably versatile: serious enough to sip neat, yet bright and lively as a highball. It is a bottle almost everyone recognises, which makes it a dependable gift for Bijoya, Diwali or a business associate, and a sensible staple for home entertaining.

Key facts

• Blend of single malt and grain whiskies, all matured for at least 12 years
• Whiskies drawn from the four corners of Scotland
• A thread of smoke runs through sweet fruit, spice and vanilla
• Brand founded by John Walker, a Kilmarnock grocer, in 1820

Tasting notes

Nose:

Dark fruit, vanilla and a wisp of smoke

Palate:

Rich and smooth, with sweet fruit, spice and vanilla

Finish:

Long, with gentle smoke

Serve

Neat, on the rocks, or as a highball: 45 ml Black Label topped with 150 ml ginger ale over ice with a lemon wheel, or with elderflower cordial and soda.

Food pairing

Great with smoky, charred food: tandoori chicken, seekh kebabs or bhetki paturi; also with barbecue ribs.