[40.0%・18 Years Old・Bottled in 2017・Johnnie Walker Bottling・General Release]
Nose:
The nose is on the approachable side, ripe fruits, marmalade with pear sweets and a light splash of grain spirit spices. Just underneath lays a hint apple cider vinegar with the light creaminess and sandalwood interwinding together. In the background, there’re traces of mineral water laced with a vague smoke. The level of intensity maintains on the same level through out as the burnt toast reveals itself over time as does a matchstick box.
Palate & Finish:
Early entries from the raisins and sultana, it’s quite a sweet delivery defined by its fruity quality. Notes of cream sherry in play here giving the dram a bit of texture. Brown sugar and milk chocolate with a bit of sugar coated almond nibs on the backend.
Medium finish with a hint of cinnamon bite whilst being mildly gingery. Apple crumble, minerals and chocolate dust sipping out.
Thoughts:
The new 18 is a pleasant drop with an easy-to-get profile. The minerals don’t really bother me although I do find the presence quite curious.
I can’t remember if it is too different from the now discontinued Gold Label Reserve or Platinum Label, however as a solid release the 18 is well suited as an everyday whisky and as a festive dram for all the thirsty distant relatives after a feast.
Thank you Johnnie Walker, Diageo Australia, Sweet&Chilli and Leo Burnett Sydney for the bottle. It is much appreciated.
✓
-Nicholas
WhiskNick 