Double Black vs Gold Label

Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 01:12 pm

Discover the differences between Double Black vs Gold Label in this in-depth comparison and decide which whisky is better for You!

Quick Note: Running a pub and liquor store provides me ample access to various spirits, in addition, I moonlight as a spirits distiller. I assess them using customer feedback, expert opinions and online research.

Written by: J Highland

Double Black or Gold Label: Comparison

Johnnie Walker Double Black: Intensifies the classic Black Label with deeper smoky flavors, charred oak, and peat, creating a bold experience. Best for those who love a smoky adventure, it’s a robust choice for enjoying on the rocks or in a highball.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label: Offers a smooth blend with honey sweetness and a touch of smoke. It’s approachable and designed for easy drinking, suitable for beginners or as a relaxed sipper. The gentle smokiness adds a layer of complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Verdict: Double Black caters to enthusiasts craving that extra smoky punch, while Gold Label is perfect for those seeking a smooth, sweet whisky with a hint of smokiness. Both provide distinct experiences within the Johnnie Walker range, appealing to a wide array of tastes and preferences, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.

Related: Best Johnnie Walker Label

Johnnie Walker Double Black: A Bold and Smoky Adventure

• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks, Highball
• Similar to: Johnnie Walker Black Label

Johnnie Walker Double Black is a bolder and smokier take on the classic Black Label. It’s crafted with whiskies matured in heavily charred oak casks, amplifying the smoky notes for a more intense experience.

Aromatic & Flavorful:

• The nose starts with a powerful smoky aroma, followed by hints of vanilla, orange, and malt.
• The palate is full-bodied with flavors of charred oak, peat, caramel, vanilla, and salted butter.
• The finish is long and warming, rich in peat and oak with subtle hints of vanilla and orange.

For Smoky Enthusiasts:

• Double Black is a bold choice for those who enjoy intense smoky whiskies.
• The smokiness may be overpowering for some, especially beginners.
• Adding a few drops of water can tame the smoke and reveal floral notes.

Double Black Facts:

• Aged in heavily charred oak casks for enhanced smokiness.
• A bolder and smokier version of Johnnie Walker Black Label.

Johnnie Walker Gold Label: Smooth and Approachable Blend

• Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
• How to drink: Rocks
• Similar to: Blue Label

Johnnie Walker Gold Label is a blended Scotch whisky known for its smoothness, sweetness, and gentle smokiness. It combines various grains and single malts, offering a pleasant and approachable drinking experience.

Aromatic & Flavorful:

• The nose offers honey and malt with a hint of smoke (alcohol dissipates with air).
• The palate is sweet with flavors of honey, malt, light smoke, and spices.
• The finish is lingering with oak, honey, warmth, and a subtle bitterness.

Easy to Enjoy:

• Gold Label is smooth and easy to drink, making it a good choice for beginners or those seeking a relaxed experience.
• The gentle smokiness adds complexity without being overpowering.

Points to Consider:

• Compared to some single malts in the same price range, Gold Label may offer less complexity.
• For a more nuanced experience, consider exploring single malts.

Gold Label Facts:

• Blend of grains and single malts from various regions.
• No age statement.
• Introduced in 2013 as a replacement for Johnnie Walker 18.
• Exact sources and proportions remain undisclosed.
• Known to include whiskies from Clynelish distillery.

Price comparison

Prices are approximate and stated in USD:

Johnnie Walker Whisky	Price
Double Black	$58
Gold Label	$100