Last Updated on: 12th April 2024, 01:09 pm
J Highland
J Highland is a certified sommelier with 30 years in the liquor industry, owning a pub, a liquor store, and moonlighting as a spirits distiller.
Discover the differences between Johnnie Walker Black Label vs Double Black 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
Johnnie Walker Black Label vs Double Black: Comparison
Johnnie Walker Black Label: A classic blend with a harmonious mix of vanilla, smoke, and a peppery finish. Ideal for those new to Scotch or seeking a balanced, everyday dram.
Johnnie Walker Double Black: Amplifies the traditional Black Label with more intense smoky, charred oak, and peat flavors. Perfect for aficionados of bold smokiness and complexity.
Key Differences: Double Black takes the foundational elements of Black Label to a new level with its enhanced smokiness and depth, achieved through aging in highly charred barrels. While Black Label offers a smoother, more approachable profile, Double Black caters to those desiring a more pronounced smoky intensity.
Verdict: Black Label suits everyday sipping and those exploring Scotch’s smoky side. Double Black appeals to enthusiasts craving deeper, more robust smoky notes, offering a richer experience for a slightly higher price. Both represent the versatility and quality of Johnnie Walker’s range, states whiskey expert Neil Coleman.
Related: Best Johnnie Walker Color
Johnnie Walker Black Label: Unveiling the Classic Blend
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks
- Similar to: Blue Label
Aromatic Allure: Johnnie Black greets you with inviting notes of vanilla, citrus zest, and nectarine, with a subtle touch of alcohol.
Smooth & Smoky: On the palate, it offers a smooth texture with mild sweetness and a distinct peat flavor. Hints of caramel and vanilla add complexity.
Lingering Warmth: The finish brings lingering peat, black pepper, salt, and a pleasant, non-harsh warmth.
Balanced & Approachable: Black Label strikes a pleasing balance between smoky and sweet notes, thanks to both peat and charred oak barrels. It delivers a smooth experience with a warm and satisfying finish.
Perfect Introduction: This affordable expression serves as a great entry point for those curious about peaty Scotch. It offers a glimpse into smoky flavors without overwhelming the palate.
Everyday Scotch: With its consistent quality and accessible price, Black Label is a popular choice for everyday enjoyment, either neat or on the rocks.
Behind the Blend: Black Label is a blend of 40 whiskies, aged for at least 12 years, from various Scottish distilleries. It incorporates peaty malts from Islay, sweet and salty Speyside whiskies, and additional malts from the Highlands.
A Global Icon: Johnnie Walker Black Label is the world’s best-selling Scotch whisky, known for its consistent quality and approachable character.
Johnnie Walker Double Black: Unveiling the Smoky Powerhouse
- Alcohol content: 80 proof (40% ABV)
- How to drink: Rocks, Highball
- Similar to: Jameson Black Barrel
Bold & Smoky: Double Black opens with a strong smoky aroma, softened by hints of vanilla, orange, and malt. A unique BBQ sauce note adds complexity.
Full-Bodied Flavor: The palate is full and robust, showcasing powerful flavors of charred oak and peat smoke upfront.
Sweet Surprise: Beneath the smoke, delightful caramel sweetness emerges, mingling with vanilla and a touch of salted butter.
Long & Warming: The finish lingers with warming peat and oak, balanced by subtle vanilla and orange zest.
A Smoky Adventure: Double Black’s bold smokiness caters to experienced palates who enjoy intense flavors.
Unlocking Hidden Depths: Adding a few drops of water unveils floral notes and softens the smoke, making it more approachable.
Tailored to Your Taste: While I enjoy its smoky character, Double Black might be strong for some.
Explore Your Options: Enjoy it neat for full flavor, chilled on ice, or in classic cocktails like highballs or Scotch & Sodas, where the smoke adds depth.
Double Black Fact: Aged in specially charred casks to amplify the smokiness compared to Black Label.
What are the differences between Johnnie Walker Black Label and Double Black?
- The Double Black is crafted using the same blend of the Black Label but aged in highly charred barrels.
- The result is a whisky with many similar notes although much richer in charred oak; which might be overwhelming for some consumers not acquainted with this particular note.
Price comparison
Prices are approximate and stated in USD:
| Whisky | Price |
| Black Label | $30 |
| Double Black | $35 |