Johnnie Walker Blue Label King George V

Johnnie Walker Blue Label King George V, NAS, 43 %

Look what I found! A rather fancy blended whisky. The Johnnie Walker Blue Label King George V is also known as the John Walker & Sons King George V.

In the official blurb they sort of hint at what the composite whiskies might be, but I have not really taken the time to find a list of all the distilleries that operated during King George V's reign:

"John Walker & Sons King George V commemorates the granting of the Royal Warrant on 1 January 1934. It is created using only the finest whiskies from distilleries that were operating during George’s twenty-five-year reign (1910 – 1936), some of which, like the famed Port Ellen, no longer exist. They are blended together to reflect the distinctive Johnnie Walker style of the era."

The Johnnie Walker Blue Label King George V sold at around GBP 333, but appears to be largely sold out now. It was originally a Duty Free exclusive, but also found it's way to some online outlets.

I tasted this whisky in a half-blind tasting, with other Johnnie Walker releases.

Nose: Ooh, now this is a different beast altogether. It appears old or at least older. A thin veil of smoke, then swirls of vanilla and ripe apples, roasted almonds, cinnamon and rich, milk chocolate. Keeps developing in the glass, and it is singularly positive. Richer and richer. A touch of mustard seeds.

Taste: Rich and full-bodied. Lots of spices up front, together with a marked oakiness. White and black pepper, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon. Not very fruity at all.

Finish: Medium to long finish. Drier now, and the oak appears more bitter. The spices are gone, but there is a soft, rich sweetness carrying us all the way to the finish. After Eight, mint chocolate, right at the end.

Comments: I must confess I quite enjoyed this ride. Must keep an eye out for a bottle of this.

Score (88/100)

Image from Master of Malt.

Sláinte! - Thomas