The Johnnie Walker Black Label is a blend made with malt and grain whiskey from distilleries across Scotland. Meanwhile, the Red Label is made from 35 different malt and grain whiskies.
Aside from that, the Black label and Red label are also highly different in terms of taste. The Black Label has a fruity, smoky, and spicy taste. On the other hand, the Red Label has a richer taste with hints of rum spice and heather.
If you are interested in knowing more about the difference between these two iconic variants of Johnnie Walker, continue reading this article.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Distilled & Blend
The Johnnie Walker Black Label blend is made of grain and malt whiskies that are chosen for their honeyed and sweet quality. It is composed of around 40 whiskies sourced out across Scotland.
In contrast, the Red Label is made from 35 different types of grains and malt whiskies. Among these are Dark Peat Whiskies sourced from the West coast of Scotland and light whiskies from the East coast.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Alcohol
The Red label is said to have a stronger alcohol sting compared to the Black label. However, it does not necessarily mean that it has higher alcohol content because both of them are 80 proof.
80 proof is the standard alcohol content of spirits that are labeled as whisky. It means that it’s not too strong, but at the same time, it’s not also mild.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Color
Another notable difference between the Black Label and the Red Label is the color of the liquid. The Black Label has a clear, amber color. The Red Label is also amber, but it’s deeper than the black label.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Taste & Flavor
The Black Label taste can be described as intense and complex. It has a full-bodied aroma that is fruity, smokey, and spicy. It also has hints of vanilla.
Meanwhile, the Red Label also tastes fruity, smokey, and spicey. However, it tastes fresher, and you can notice hints of spice and malt aside from the vanilla.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Prices
The Johnnie Walker Black Label is slightly more expensive than the Red Label. This is understandable because the Black Label is made with more premium ingredients and ages for a longer period.
The Black Label price for a 750 ml bottle ranges from $29.99 to $32.99, while the Red Label 750 ml bottle price starts at $22.99 to $24.99.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Aging
The Johnnie Walker Black Label is aged 12 years. Meanwhile, the Red Label is aged for a shorter period of time which is 10 years. The aging process makes both beverages taste better. It also helps them to get smoother flavors.
Which is Better: Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label?
If you want a more premium whisky and you are willing to pay a higher price, then the Johnnie Walker Black Label is better. However, if you want a fresher tasting blend, the Red Label is the better choice for you.
Johnnie Walker Black vs. Red Label: Quick Comparison
Item | Johnnie Walker Black Label | Johnnie Walker Red Label | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Blend | Grain and Malt | Grain and Malt | |||
Production Area | Scotland | Scotland | |||
Raw Materials | Grain and Malt | Grain and Malt | |||
Distillation | Yes | Yes | |||
Alcohol | 80 proof | 80 proof | |||
Nose | Pepper, citrus, winter spice, treacle | Mixed peels, soft smoke, rum spice, heathered honey | |||
Taste | Sweet, rich | Spice and smoky | |||
Average Price | $29.99 to $32.99 | $22.99 to $24.99 |
The Final Verdict
Both the Johnnie Walker Black Label and Red Label are excellent alcoholic beverages so it all boils down to preference when determining which one is better.
The Black label is better for those who prefer classic tasting whiskey made with high-quality ingredients. On the other hand, the Red label is the better choice if you prefer newer and fresher tasting one.
Which do you prefer; the Black Label or the Red Label? Let us know in the comments below.