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Discover your perfect Johnnie Walker

Whisky 101
Author: Tim Philips-Johansson
Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle lying next to a whisky glass with a neat pour

Introduction

When it comes to Scotch whisky, few names carry the weight and legacy of Johnnie Walker. With a range of blends crafted to cater to every palate and occasion, it’s a whisky that invites discovery. We asked Tim Philips-Johansson, Johnnie Walker Brand Ambassador, to explain the unique personalities of each iconic label – and how to enjoy them.

Johnnie Walker Blue Label bottle on gold tray with two filled whisky glasses on a blue carpet

Johnnie Walker Red Label

Red Label is the life of the party: dynamic, approachable, and made for mixing. Its bold character is balanced with soft vanilla and gentle spice, finishing with a hint of smoke. Whether you’re hosting friends or exploring your home mixologist skills, this whisky is your perfect partner.

At a glance

Flavour: Sweet vanilla, gentle spice, subtle smoke

Ideal for: Mixing into cocktails, casual gatherings

Why you’ll love it: Adds depth and character to any drink

Whisky Sour cocktail made with Johnnie Walker Red Label, garnished with cherries on a wooden surface

Recipe

Whisky Sour

Whisky

Johnnie Walker Red Label Blended Scotch Whisky, 70cl

Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker Red Label Blended Scotch Whisky

70cl

View Recipe

Johnnie Walker Black Label

Black Label is the benchmark in blended whisky – elegant, balanced, and full of depth. Crafted from up to 30 whiskies aged for at least 12 years, it’s a masterclass in flavour. Sweetness meets smoke in this iconic blend, making it ideal for both sipping and highball cocktails like Johnnie Ginger.

At a glance

Flavour: Sweetness wrapped in smoke, with rich depth

Ideal for: Highballs, refined moments

Why you’ll love it: A masterful balance of smoothness and complexity

Recipe

Johnnie Ginger

Whisky

A bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label Blended Scotch Whisky

Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker Black Label Blended Scotch Whisky

70cl

View Recipe
Johnnie Ginger cocktail made with Johnnie Walker Black Label, garnished with lemon on a marble bar setup

Johnnie Walker Green Label

Green Label is a hidden gem, crafted entirely from single malts sourced from Scotland’s four corners. It’s a whisky that reflects the diversity of its landscapes – balanced, harmonious, and deeply complex. Perfect for those who appreciate a whisky with character and connection to nature.

At a glance

Flavour: Rich, layered, with fresh and earthy notes

Ideal for: Sipping or stirring into cocktails

Why you’ll love it: A harmonious blend of single malts with depth and versatility

Johnnie Walker Green Label bottle with two Old Fashioned whisky cocktails on a dark bar counter

Recipe

Old Fashioned

Whisky

Whisky Johnnie Walker Green Label Botella 750ml

Johnnie Walker

Green Label Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

75cl

View Recipe

“Johnnie Walker Green isn't just green by design. Its versatility matches equally as well with fresh and floral flavours you would normally associate with gin cocktails.”

Portrait of Tim Philips-Johansson, Scotch whisky expert and Johnnie Walker spokesperson

Tim Philips-Johansson

Scotch Whisky Expert


Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve

Gold Label Reserve is the whisky for unforgettable moments with friends and family. A blend of 18 single malt and grain whiskies, including gems from Cardhu, Glen Elgin and Blair Athol, it’s rich, smooth, and versatile. Its honeyed depth of flavour pairs beautifully with fruits, making it a standout for cocktails like the Penicillin.

At a glance

Flavour: Sweet honey, fruity depth

Ideal for: Celebrations, experimenting with cocktails

Why you’ll love it: Perfect for creating bold, fruity flavour combinations

Recipe

Penicillin Cocktail

Whisky

Johnnie Walker Whisky Gold Label Reserve Bottle

Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve Blended Scotch Whisky

70cl

View Recipe
Penicillin cocktails made with Johnnie Walker Gold Label, served over ice with honey and lemon accents

Johnnie Walker Blue Label

Blue Label is the crown jewel in the Johnnie Walker portfolio. Crafted from only 1 in 10,000 casks, it’s a whisky of unparalleled depth and exclusivity. Perfect for marking life’s extraordinary moments, Blue Label is best savoured neat or in an elegant cocktail like a Rob Roy.

At a glance

Flavour: Rich, luxurious, and velvety smooth

Ideal for: Celebrating milestones, refined sipping

Why you’ll love it: Exceptional quality for truly special occasions

Rob Roy whisky cocktail made with Johnnie Walker Blue Label, served in a coupe glass with cherry garnish

Recipe

Rob Roy

Whisky

Johnnie Walker Blue Label 70 cl Front

Johnnie Walker

Johnnie Walker Blue Label Blended Scotch Whisky

70cl

About the Author

Tim Philips-Johansson

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Tim Philips-Johansson, Global Brand Ambassador for Johnnie Walker, is a leading whisky voice. An award-winning bartender, he travels the world sharing his expertise, crafting unforgettable experiences, and inspiring a new generation of whisky lovers.

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Smiling person enjoying a cocktail outdoors in bright lighting

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