Johnnie Walker Blender’s Batch Red Rye Finish

In 2017 Johnnie Walker launched the so-called Blender’s Batch series in which innovative and experimental whiskies are bottled. The first one is this Red Rye Finish, composed with a very small amount of malt and grain whiskies, all matured on first fill bourbon casks and then finished for 6 months on casks that previously held rye whisky. Hence the name.

It is quite bourbonny on the nose, with loads of sweet rye, caramel, nutmeg, pepper and some citrus fruit. Nosed blind you would be forgiven for thinking this American.

It is very easy on the palate, partly due to its sweetness. Vanilla, caramel, some spices from the rye and a hint of chocolate.

The medium long finish offers more vanilla and spices.

Very quaffable – and dirt cheap – Walker, which will work wonders in a cocktail, but is also quite enjoyable neat.

Find where to buy Johnnie Walker whisky