Johnnie Walker 18 Years
Previously known as "Platinum," the Johnnie Walker 18 Years now carries only its age statement. The content remains unchanged: a premium-positioned blended Scotch whisky designed for broad appeal.
Tasting Notes
Nose
On the nose, the whisky is accessible and well-balanced. Caramel and vanilla provide a sweet foundation, while a bright fruit basket of apple, pear, and peach adds freshness. A subtle grain note of oats and malt brings depth, complemented by a touch of candied orange peel. A faint wisp of smoke lingers in the background, giving the blend a hint of extra character.
Palate
On the palate, the Johnnie Walker 18 Years initially feels somewhat thin but remains smooth and silky. The flavors are well-balanced: orange marmalade brings fruity sweetness, accompanied by dark fruits and peach. Surprisingly, the malty note is quite present for a blend. The smoke stays subtle, with an earthy, slightly ashy touch that adds a bit of complexity.
Finish
The finish is medium in length, marked by pleasant bitter orange notes. A touch of wood emerges without becoming overpowering. The smoke provides a hint of volume but remains in the background.
Thoughts
Marcel 73/100
A smooth, pleasant blend that, with its gentle sweetness and subtle smoke, feels almost like a good friend – uncomplicated and likable, but without much depth. Anyone looking for a relaxed whisky for cozy moments will surely be happy here. For true characterful personalities, however, there are more exciting options.
Sascha 72/100
The Johnnie Walker 18 Year offers a solid balance between sweetness, fruitiness, and a subtle smoky note, yet it remains somewhat one-dimensional and slightly thin on the palate. The structure is clear, with a medium-length finish featuring a delicate bitter orange, but real complexity or depth is lacking. A reliable everyday blend that impresses more with its approachability than with character.
Value for Money: Fair
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How does the Johnnie Walker 18 Year differ from other Johnnie Walker expressions?
The Johnnie Walker 18 Year is a blended Scotch whisky that offers a balanced complexity thanks to a longer maturation period than many other variants. It is characterized by a combination of sweet caramel and vanilla notes, fruity accents, and a subtle smoke, making it more elegant and layered than younger blends.
Why does the Johnnie Walker 18 Year taste relatively light and smooth despite its aging?
Although the whisky has matured for 18 years, it has been crafted to remain accessible and soft. The light texture results from a harmonious balance of malty and fruity aromas, while the smoke and bitter orange add a subtle complexity without overpowering the flavor.
Is the Johnnie Walker 18 Year suitable for cocktails, or should it be enjoyed neat?
Due to its fine aromas and balanced character, the Johnnie Walker 18 Year is especially well-suited for neat drinking or with a little water to open up its nuances. While it can be used in cocktails, many of its subtle flavor notes are lost in the process, so it is generally appreciated more as a quality sipping whisky.