Barman-turned-Diageo Scotch whisky ambassador Ervin Trykowski recently hosted an exclusive masterclass on different types of Scotch, in celebration of the International Scotch Day.
During the class, Trykowski talked about six of the world’s favorite Scotch brands today. Here are the notes on the featured labels:
Johnnie Walker Black Label
Also known as the “Iconic Blend,” Johnnie Walker Black Label is recognized as the benchmark for all other deluxe Scotch blends. Created using only whiskies aged for a minimum of 12 years from the four corners of Scotland.
It is rich, complex, and incredibly well-balanced; full of dark fruits, sweet vanilla, and signature smokiness. A popular serve for this brand is the Johnnie Ginger, which consists of Johnnie Walker Black Label and ginger ale.
Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve
Johnnie Walker Gold Label Reserve, also known as the “Celebration Blend,” is the perfect fit for indulgent celebrations and the ideal whisky for Scotch-based cocktails.
Known for its creamy smoothness, it opens with a luxurious burst of delicate nectar and gentle smokiness that develops into sweet fruits and deeper, velvety, honeyed tones before giving way to sublime, lingering whispers of smoke and oakiness in the finish.
Johnnie Walker Blue Label
Known as the “Rare Blend,” Johnnie Walker Blue Label contains mature Malt Whiskies that present a multi-layered symphony of flavors that work together in harmonious balance.
Jim Beveridge, the master blender, selects from rare casks from the Speyside and Highland distilleries that include fruity and delicated Cardhu and Clynellish, with flavors of honey and fresh fruits; warm rounded Benrinnes delivering rich spicy notes; and wonderful Islay Malts including Caol Ila for the unmistakable signature Johnnie Walker smokiness.
Singleton of Dufftown 12 Year Old
Made with spring water so pure its stream was unlawfully diverted on a number of occasions, Dufftown’s signature smooth whiskies are achieved by a secret combination of both American and European oak casks. The Singleton of Dufftown 12 Year Old, which hails from the Speyside region, is an easy to enjoy whisky with a smooth nutty and dried fruits profile.
Dalwhinnie Distillers Edition
Dalwhinnie embodies the gentle spirit of the Highlands, offering delicate floral aromas, wispy hints of heather, and a soft, subtle finish. It is double-matured in Oloroso casks. It has a rich sherry-sweetness, spicy complexity, and a very dry oaky finish.
Talisker 10
The most award-winning malt in its class, the Talisker 10 is the only malt bottled at 45.8 percent ABV. Its unique, smoky-sweet and powerful characteristics make it easy to recognize. It has a powerful peat-smoke with sea-water saltiness nose, the smell of the liquor of fresh oysters, and a citrus sweetness, creating a huge, long, warming, and peppery finish.
During his masterclass, Trykowski said, “Smoky, fruity, honeyed, the list goes on—Scotch has such an expansive reach in flavor and quality, and every sip is a discovery.”