2017 Johnnie Walker Year of the Rooster Blue Label 92 Proof 750ml

The Year of the Rooster Celebration Blend from Johnnie Walker Blue Label is a masterpiece of Scotch blending, presented in a limited-edition bottle celebrating the Lunar New Year. This 2017 special release, often sought by collectors, marries some of Scotland's rarest and most exceptional whiskies to create an unparalleled depth of flavor and character. It offers a velvety smooth experience, marked by a harmonious interplay of profound smoky notes, rich dried fruits, and a delicate spice, culminating in an extraordinarily long and satisfying finish.

Tasting Notes

Nose: Initial delicate wisps of smoke, characteristic of Islay malts, gently give way to a luxurious bouquet of dried fruits – think figs, raisins, and candied orange peel – intertwined with sweet honey, vanilla custard, and a subtle nuttiness from mature Speyside whiskies. A faint hint of oak spice and an elegant floral note provide depth.

Palate: The palate is remarkably smooth and multi-layered, beginning with a silky sweetness of dark chocolate and toffee, quickly followed by warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. Rich dried fruit notes persist, complemented by the delicate presence of peat smoke that rounds out the profile without overwhelming. Hints of hazelnut, a touch of leather, and a whisper of ginger emerge, showcasing its complexity and the careful marriage of diverse whiskies.

Finish: Long, lingering, and incredibly sophisticated. The finish gracefully evolves from sweet and spicy to a satisfyingly dry, smoky warmth that gently fades, leaving behind echoes of dark chocolate, oak, and a memorable, refined smokiness.