Johnnie Walker unveils Blenders’ Batch Sherry Cask Finish

Blended Scotch whisky brand Johnnie Walker has extended its Blenders’ Batch range with the launch of a Sherry cask-finished expression.

The travel retail exclusive expression has been inspired by Johnnie Walker Black Label

The travel retail exclusive blend has been inspired by Johnnie Walker Black Label, which has been crafted with an element of Sherry cask maturation.

Blenders’ Batch Sherry Cask Finish is made with whiskies from distilleries including Blair Athol, Cardhu and Strathmill and hopes to explore the fruity notes that Sherry cask maturation brings to whisky.

Aimée Gibson, Johnnie Walker expert whisky maker said: “Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch whiskies are the result of bold experiments that push the boundaries in flavour.

“Taking inspiration from the element of Sherry cask maturation in Johnnie Walker Black Label, I was intrigued by the rich and fruity taste it added to the blend. It inspired me to experiment with the Sherry cask finish to awaken more of these fruity notes and to add a unique flavour dynamic.”

The latest expression from Diageo-owned Johnnie Walker is aged for 12 years and is described as “a smooth-sipping dark Scotch with notes of sweet vanilla, smoke, raisins and a warming finish of dark chocolate.”

Gibson said: “Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Sherry Cask Finish is a fantastically sweet and rich whisky. It’s the perfect introduction for those who are new to Scotch whisky, but will also excite seasoned whisky lovers.”

Diageo launched the Blenders’ Batch series, which includes expressions finished in wine casks and rum casks, in September 2016 and this Sherry cask-finished expression is the first travel retail exclusive from the range.

Johnnie Walker Blenders’ Batch Sherry Cask Finish is available exclusively in one litre bottles in travel retail for £26.50 (US$$44).