This is the first in a new series of cask finishes for Johnnie Walker, and features a blend heavy on Speyside malts (especially Cardhu) with minimal smokiness. It was matured for ten years before being finished in Rye whiskey casks from Kentucky and Tennessee, and is the youngest Johnnie Walker expression with an age statement in many years. It’s also bottled at a higher proof (46% ABV) than other Johnnie Walker expressions.

The nose has mild spicy notes of ginger root, lemon pepper, and sandalwood with a hint of citrus fruits. The taste is nice, tart, and spicy with no apparent smokiness and notes of lemon pepper, ginger root, a touch of grapefruit, sandalwood, and a hint of vanilla in the background. The finish is medium-length and slightly tart. It’s an interesting variation on the traditional Johnnie Walker house style. (July, 2015)